Food and Wine Pairings: The Basic Rules

September 2, 2019 , ,

Matching up wines and foods is important to create a beautiful harmony in a meal. While there are many books, magazines and websites with detailed guidelines on how to pair food and wine, there are some simple basic rules that you can learn and apply in no time. I will show you how to pair some great recipes that will impress your guests.

The most basic element of food and wine pairing is creating a balance between the “intensity” of the dish and the “intesity” (or body) of the wine: Fist and foremost, the wine should not overpower the dish and vice versa. For the wine it is mostly a matter of alcohol level and perceptions of tannins (from the grape skins). In general, a white wine is less intense than a red wine. Hence, white wine will be more appropriate to match a fish or a white meat dish, and a red wine will be best to match a more robust dish featuring red meat. Through this, of course, there are several nuances. Do not hesitate to take a food and wine pairing class to gain more confidence. The following infographic may help you choose your wine:

Source: winefolly.com (Click to enlarge)

Here are some suggestions of great festive dishes with my suggestions for wine pairing.

Scallop Ceviche

Scallop Ceviche

Scallop Ceviche

“Ceviche” [pr. seh-VEE-chee] is a Peruvian specialty popular throughout Latin America, consisting of raw fish or shellfish marinated in lime juice. The acid in the lime juice tenderizes the raw fish while turning the flesh opaque, giving it the appearance and appeal of cooked fish. Onions, tomatoes and peppers are often added to the marinade.

Suggested pairing: Dry white wine, sparkling, champagne

See the recipe >>

Rutabaga and Potato Gratin with Oregano

Rutabaga and Potato Gratin with Oregano

Rutabaga and Potato Gratin with Oregano

This delicious gratin dish will please all your guests. Its flavor is delicate and slightly scented with oregano. Try also our recipe for Scalloped Potatoes.

Suggested pairing: Dry white wine, sparkling, champagne or full-bodied white wine

See the recipe >>

Fish Fillets à la Provençale

Fish Fillets à la Provençale

Fish Fillets à la Provençale

These fish fillets are simple to make and really tasty. The combination of pesto garnish and sundried tomatoes reminds you of Provence!

Suggested pairing: Full-bodied white wine

See the recipe >>

Basil Crisp Chicken Breast

Basil Crisp Chicken Breast

Basil Crisp Chicken Breast

This recipe is ideal to entertain, because it is original and easy to prepare. The breadcrumbs coating gives the chicken a superb crunchy texture. A delight!

Suggested pairing: Full-bodied white or light red wine

See the recipe >>

French-Style Flank Steak

French-Style Flank Steak

French-Style Flank Steak

This classic bistro dish is as good (even better!) than at the restaurant. Choose your piece of meat carefully, since that’s what makes all the difference!

Suggested pairing: Full-bodied red wine

See the recipe >>

Cherry Clafouti

Cherry Clafouti

Cherry Clafouti

This light and not too sweet dessert is a wonderful way to end a good meal. Do you dare to try it?

Suggested pairing: Sweet wine

See the recipe >>

To read: 7 Perfect Beer and Food Pairings

Author

Jeanne Dumouchel
A graduate of the UQAM in Communication (digital media) and a connoisseur of culture in all its forms, Jeanne has been the social media community manager for SOSCuisine since 2016. She also collaborates on the creation of content for the blog. SOSCuisine helps her to shop and eat better every day.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This website uses cookies to give the best user experience, monitor the site performance, offer social networks features, or display advertisements. By clicking "ACCEPT", you consent to the use of cookies in accordance to our privacy policy.