Sun’s out, (burger) buns out: it’s BBQ season! Not that we’re biased or anything but BBQ is the best season. The sun? Welcome. The food? Unparalleled. The drinks? Thirst-quenching. There’s 2 types of BBQ people. Those who see the sun peeking through the clouds and leg it to the beer garden for a burger. And those who dive to dust off the grill for a BBQ in the garden. Whichever type of human you are, they both call for an ice cold beer (enjoyed responsibly ofc).
How much beer per person do I need for a BBQ?
This depends on whether you’re hosting or attending. Many friend groups nowadays have a BYOB (bring your own beer) rule to bring your own bevvies. It saves the host some money and means they don’t have to cater to everyone’s drink preferences. But not everyone does it this way.
If you’re hosting and want to supply the beers for your guests, think of it like you would a wedding – 2-3 beers per guest is ideal. Did you know we offer bulk order beer for events? Or for if you just fancy having some left over. And don’t forget to grab some alcohol free beer for the designated drivers. Or to keep granny in check.
Alternatively, if you’re attending and have been told to BYOB, try to bring enough for yourself plus a few extra to be polite. And if you just happen to forget to take those extras home, the host will probably appreciate it.
Our Favourite Beer & BBQ Dish Pairings
It’s basically a fact that a BBQ without beer isn’t much of a BBQ at all. But it’s not a one-beer-fits-all situation. Just like wine, different meats, veg, and cheese call for different types of beers. So here are our faves to crack open while we tend the grill.
Best Beer for BBQ Ribs: Spresso Coffee Stout
If you’re a fan of BBQ ribs (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?) dark beer like a stout is the perfect pairing. The extra toasty malts give these beers their dark colour and a subtly sweet caramelised flavour which goes really well with the sweet and smoky flavour of the ribs.
Best Beer for Barbeque Burgers: Neck Oil Session IPA
If burgers are on the menu (a BBQ classic), you need to have Neck Oil on the table. Session IPA has that perfect balance of hoppy citrus, medium-level bitterness, and bright flavour that cuts through the greasiness between bites of burger. A palette cleanser, if you will. So every bite tastes just as good as the first.
Best Beer for Grilled Halloumi: Cosmic Drop Berry Punch Beer
Halloumi is basically a must-have on the BBQ. Skewered or not, it doesn’t matter. This salty cheese goes with everything. And the best beverage to pair with that succulent saltiness? Fruit beer. It’s a well known fact that halloumi goes well with fruit – particularly berries and watermelon. The light and fruity flavour pairs super well with halloumi.
Best Beer for Barbequed Hot Dogs: Bones Lager
Hog dog fans should totally be sipping on a nice cold lager. The crisp and refreshing flavours of Bones helps to cut through the grease and also enhances the deeper smoky flavours and char of the dog. It’s a match made in… well not heaven, but definitely your mate’s garden.
Best Beer for Grilled Chicken: Satellite Low Alcohol IPA
There’s nothing quite like a grilled chicken skewer hot off the barbie. The crispy edges, the juicy meat. Slather it in some kind of sauce and we’re very happy. And the perfect pairing for grilled chicken? IPA beer. The caramelised crust on the chicken pulls out the toasty malt flavours in the beer while the hoppy bitterness boosts the umami of the chicken in a merry-go-round of pure deliciousness.
Best Beer for BBQ Tofu: Gamma Ray American Pale Ale
We’ll tolerate no tofu hate around these parts. Tofu is great. It soaks up any flavour you offer it. It goes crispy when grilled on the BBQ. And can get a really great smokey char. And that smokiness goes really well with an American pale ale thanks to all the complementary hop and bitter notes. APA also has a bit of an earthiness to it which just plain works with your barbecue tofu.
Shop Gamma Ray American Pale Ale
Best Beer for Grilled Fish: Lazer Crush Alcohol Free IPA
Whenever you have fish, you always want a lighter wine or beer to go with it so you don’t overpower the delicate flavours. Usually that’s white wine but we’re partial to Lazer Crush because of its bright, fruity flavour and lower bitterness. The fact it’s alcohol free is just a bonus.
Shop Lazer Crush Alcohol Free IPA
Best Beer for BBQ Veggie Skewers: Sun God Tropical IPA
What better way to worship that sunshine than with grilled veg and a can of Sun God? The tropical hit of the beer and mild-ish bitterness bring out the sweetness in the caramelised edges of the chargrilled veggies. And if you’re partial to a bit of grilled pineapple, that’d go perfectly with the flavours in this hazy IPA.
Now you know exactly what beers to buy to pair with your fave BBQ food, all that’s left to do is go have fun in the sun. And don’t forget to prepare for rain. Because, let’s be honest, it’s the UK and it’ll probably tip it down and leave your dad to cook under an umbrella. Looking for a nice gift for your host? Even if it’s just an excuse to use it yourself, shop beer glasses for a nice gesture and to upgrade their kitchen cabinets.
