Barbecue (BBQ) is a popular cooking method that involves slowly cooking meat over low, indirect heat, often using wood, charcoal, or gas as the heat source. BBQ originated in the Southern United States but has become popular worldwide. The tender, smoky flavor of good BBQ is irresistible. But what really takes BBQ to the next level is pairing it with complementary sides and drinks. In this extensive guide, we’ll explore the wide world of BBQ pairings, from classic sides to creative cocktails.
Perfect Pairings: The Best Sides for BBQ
Choosing the right sides to go with BBQ is key. You want options that enhance the flavors of the meat without overpowering it. Here are some sensational sides to consider.
Classic BBQ Sides
Some side dishes are southern BBQ classics for good reason. These tried and true pairings are must-haves.
Baked Beans
Sweet, saucy baked beans enriched with bacon or ham are practically synonymous with barbecue. Beans pair perfectly with the savory smoke of BBQ meats. Ranch-style beans seasoned with cheddar and scallions are also fantastic.
Coleslaw
Cool, crisp coleslaw balances the richness of BBQ exceptionally well. Opt for coleslaw made with a vinegar-based dressing or even try a kale slaw for a twist.
Mac and Cheese
Is any BBQ complete without mac and cheese? This cheesy pasta bakes up creamy on the inside with a crispy top layer—the ultimate comfort food next to smoky, saucy BBQ.
Corn on the Cob
Fresh sweet corn slathered with butter and sprinkled with salt and pepper complements BBQ masterfully. Grilled corn caramelizes from the heat, making a perfect foil for smoky meat.
Baked Potatoes
Large, fluffy baked potatoes with all the fixings like bacon, cheddar, sour cream, and chives are natural companions to BBQ entrees. You can’t go wrong with this classic potato pairing.
Creative BBQ Sides
Beyond the classics, there’s a whole world of inventive sides to try with barbecue! Spice things up with these creative options.
Caprese Salad
Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make Caprese salad a refreshing choice next to hearty BBQ. The pops of bright acidity complement the rich meat.
Roasted Broccoli
Charred broccoli florets roasted with olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes balance nicely with sweet, smoky BBQ flavors.
Cornbread
Warm cornbread with honey butter is a beloved alternative to plain white bread with BBQ. The hint of sweetness enhances the sauce flavors.
Watermelon Salad
Chilled watermelon, feta, and mint tossed in a lime vinaigrette make a sweet, savory salad perfect for hot summer barbecues. The cool crunch contrasts nicely with hot meat right off the grill.
Loaded Baked Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes loaded up with fixings like black beans, salsa, avocado, and cilantro cream offer a colorful, flavor-packed accompaniment to BBQ.
Refreshing Drinks for the Ultimate BBQ Experience
What you sip on is just as integral to the BBQ experience as what you eat. Quench your thirst and combat the heat with these sublime BBQ beverage pairings.
Classic BBQ Beverages
You can’t go wrong with any of these thirst-quenching drinks next to a smoky plate of ribs or pulled pork.
Iced Tea
A tall, icy glass of sweet tea may just be the perfect BBQ beverage. The touch of sugar and hint of lemon cut through the savory sauce flavors beautifully. For a lighter option, opt for unsweetened tea.
Lemonade
Tart, sweet lemonade is infinitely refreshing with sticky, finger-licking BBQ foods. Make a lemonade stand for your next barbecue bash.
Beer
What pairs better with BBQ than an ice-cold beer? Lagers, wheats, and pale ales are easy-drinking options. Or for bold barbecue, try a hop-forward IPA.
Soft Drinks
Don’t overlook sodas and sparkling waters for BBQ occasions. The fizzy refreshment cleanses the palate between bites of saucy, spice-rubbed meats straight from the smoker.
Creative Cocktails
Take your BBQ beverage game up a notch with these crave-worthy cocktails that enliven the whole experience.
Whiskey Smash
A refreshing whiskey smash with mint, lemon, and ginger beer complements and cuts through the rich fattiness of BBQ in the best way.
Bloody Mary
A Bloody Mary loaded with spices and garnished with all the fixings like pickles, olives, and celery, makes a savory-spicy partner for smoked meat.
Margarita
A margarita rimmed with chili-lime salt thrills the taste buds and cools you down simultaneously when eating mouthwatering BBQ.
Paloma
For a south-of-the-border inspired BBQ pairing, mix up grapefruit Jarritos, tequila, and lime juice. Smoky meat meets citrus brightness.
Bourbon Arnold Palmer
A 50/50 blend of bourbon and iced tea with lemonade creates a boozy take on a refreshing classic ideal for leisurely BBQs.
BBQ Seasoning and Sauce Pairing Tips
Certain seasoning rubs and sauces work better with specific sides and drinks too. Follow these tips:
- Tangy vinegar-based sauces pair wonderfully with cool, creamy coleslaw and potato salad.
- Sweet, bold tomato-based sauces call for baked beans, corn on the cob, and cold beer.
- Spicy dry rubs loaded with chili powder and cayenne demand a cold, fruity margarita.
- Garlic, onion, and herb rubs complement fresh greens like kale slaw and watermelon salad nicely.
- Smoky dry rubs emphasize the char flavor, so pair them with charred veggies like corn and broccoli.
- For nutty, coffee-flavored barbecue, try a refreshing whiskey smash cocktail.
Conclusion
The perfect BBQ experience is all about balance. Smoky, saucy barbecue on its own is delicious, but the right sides and beverages take it to the next level. Play around with timeless classics like baked beans and iced tea as well as inventive new sides and cocktails. The possibilities for incredible BBQ pairings are endless, so get creative! With tender meat smoked to perfection and sensational accouterments, you simply can’t go wrong.