Shrimp and Grits + American Pale Ale
The Pairing
Grassy, piney American hops
Beer: Dale’s Pale Ale
Why: This pairing uses the bitterness and citrus flavors of the hops to balance out the richness of the shrimp and grits. Both the beer and the meal work equally well on a hot patio on a Charleston, SC summer eve or on a fuzzy sock, fire-warmed winter dinner table
What: Dale’s Pale Ale from Oskar Blues Brewery is an “American Pale Ale.” But don’t let the name fool you - this beer is secretly an IPA style in disguise. Cascade, Centenniel, and Comet hops bring a sharp tartness to the beer but it has a malty balance that some other IPA styles lack. 6.5% alcohol is on the higher side for a pale ale - another reason why this is an IPA in hiding.
Buying: Widely distributed, you should be able to pick this up anywhere they sell beer
Alternates: Sweetwater 420, Bell’s Two Hearted, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale