Oh, matching food with Zinfandel, you say? Well, let’s keep it simple but fun, shall we? Here’s the lowdown from a fellow food and wine enthusiast (who occasionally knows what they’re talking about):
Perfect Zinfandel Pairings
Barbecued Ribs
Here's the deal: Zinfandel and barbecued ribs are like that couple who've been together forever and still get along. The wine's fruity punch just jibes perfectly with the smoky sweetness of the ribs.
Its acidity cuts through the fat like it's on a mission, and those tannins? They're mingling with the char on those ribs as if at the year's best social event.
Click here for a tasty and easy barbecued rib recipe.
Beef Chili
Now, beef chili and Zinfandel is where it gets hearty.
The wine’s fruit-forward taste is there cheering on the spices in your chili, while its tannins and acidity work as a cleanup crew, making sure the richness doesn’t overstay its welcome.
Here's a seriously delicious weeknight chili recipe.
Spicy Sausage Pizza
Picture this: spicy sausage pizza on your plate and a glass of Zinfandel. The wine’s like, “Hey, I can handle the heat,” thanks to its peppery edge.
And the acidity? Well, it’s busy making sure you can taste the pizza under all that cheese. It’s a team effort.
Aged Cheddar
Pairing aged cheddar with Zinfandel is sort of a grown-up move.
The cheese brings the sharpness and a bit of sass, while the wine counters with its sweet and spicy charm. It’s like watching two old friends banter – entertaining and slightly educational on the art of balance.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Last but not least, grilled portobello mushrooms with Zinfandel is for when you’re feeling fancy but earthy. The mushrooms are all meaty and grounded, and the Zinfandel swoops in with its berry notes like, “Let’s add a bit of drama,” but in a good, Shakespearean way, not reality TV.
Why These Pairing Work
Acidity
Acidity in Zinfandel brings vibrancy to dishes, especially those with richness or fat, by cleansing the palate and enhancing the flavors, making each bite as enjoyable as the first.
Sweetness
The subtle sweetness in some Zinfandels can provide a soothing counterbalance to spicy or tangy dishes, softening the heat and enriching the food's inherent flavors.
Tannins
Tannins add structure to the wine and can soften when paired with foods rich in proteins and fats, creating a smoother mouthfeel. This makes Zinfandel particularly suited to pairing with meaty and fatty dishes, as it cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate.
Looking to score a nice bottle of Zinfandel to pair? Check out our list of the best places to buy wine online.
Pairing food and wine should be fun and easy. We hope this guide to pairing Zinfandel gets you started.
