Hot Chicken and Cold Beer: The Science Behind this Perfect Pairing
No offense to the pepperoni pies of the world, but pizza and beer aren’t the only game in town. In fact, when it comes to curing what “ales” you, it’s easy to get crafty with all sorts of combos. Cold beer and hot chicken, for example, make a particularly pleasing pair for several reasons, including the following:
A Complementary Contrast
Contrasting temperatures activate thermoreceptors in the mouth, enhancing the senses and increasing feelings of pleasure. The difference between extreme temperatures (like an ice-cold drink versus a sizzling dish) makes the beer feel more refreshing and the chicken taste crispier. This creates a lively pairing and more exciting eating experiences.
Cutting Through the Fat
Fried chicken is cooked in oil, which gives a rich texture to the palate. Beer cuts through this with carbonation and alcohol to lift oils from the tongue. Alcohol can also help dissolve some fats, possibly aiding digestion.
A Balancing Act
Cold beer is known to balance spicy chicken in specific ways, depending on the beer’s profile. IPAs and other bitter beers can counteract the heat, while lagers can help cool things down. Amber ales can add a touch of sweetness, while especially hoppy beers can bring out the chicken’s underlying flavors without overwhelming them. Regardless of the beer type, the carbonation acts as a palate cleanser between bites.
The Pleasure Response
Both alcohol and fried chicken, a well-known comfort food, boost dopamine levels. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the brain’s reward system. Elevated levels often lead to feelings of euphoria, increased motivation, and pleasure, while also lifting one's mood. Comfort foods are so powerful in affecting dopamine that even just thinking about them can trigger a release.
Calling Reinforcements
Beer is a well-known flavor enhancer, with the unique ability to bring out the best in a dish. It can enhance the saltiness, spiciness, and savoriness inherent in fried chicken, making the overall dining experience even more enjoyable.
Stop in today to taste this culinary combo and test the science out yourself!
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