The smell of freshly cut grass, the roar of the crowd, and the anticipation of a new season of the Australian Football League (AFL)—these are the hallmarks of football. As the excitement builds, it’s time to gather your friends, family, and fellow fans to enjoy the game together. Of course, no football-watching experience would be complete without the perfect food and drink combinations.
This article compiles a list of the best combinations to savour while watching the game, whether you’re at the stadium or hosting a viewing party at home.
A true football-watching staple, combining crispy chicken wings smothered in a tangy sauce and a cold, refreshing beer is a match made in heaven. These flavours complement each other perfectly, and the pairing also provides a satisfying contrast in temperature and texture.
To make your wings and beer combo even more enjoyable, pair your favourite wing sauce with a craft beer that complements its flavour profile. For instance, an Indian pale ale (IPA) with hints of citrus can enhance the heat of a spicy wing sauce.
As you browse through new season AFL tickets, consider indulging in a timeless pairing: soft pretzels and stout. The warm, chewy pretzels, twisted to perfection and sprinkled with coarse salt, are a delightful contrast to the rich, dark stout. The roasted malt flavours of the beer enhance the toasty aroma of the pretzels, creating a harmonious balance that satisfies the taste buds.
Are you looking for something that packs a punch of flavour and excitement? Loaded nachos, piled high with cheese, jalapeños, guacamole, and other delectable toppings, are the perfect finger food for a game-day feast. A refreshing margarita on the rocks adds a zesty kick, cutting through the richness of the nachos and cleansing your palate for the next satisfying bite. Plus, the combination of these vibrant Mexican-inspired flavours will liven up any gathering.
Pair gourmet hot dogs with a bold red wine for an elevated take on traditional game-day fare. Choose high-quality sausages and experiment with creative toppings such as caramelized onions, sauerkraut, or bacon-wrapped jalapeños. A hearty red wine, like a Shiraz or Malbec, pairs beautifully with the rich, smoky flavours of the sausages, resulting in a sophisticated and indulgent experience.
Grilled veggie skewers are a fantastic choice for a lighter, more health-conscious option. Marinate an assortment of colourful vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms, in a zesty herb and garlic blend before skewering and grilling them to perfection. Pair these vibrant skewers with a crisp, refreshing white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to accentuate the fresh flavours and create a bright, satisfying combination.
When it comes to classic football cuisine, it’s hard to beat a juicy burger. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or veggie, there’s something inherently satisfying about sinking your teeth into a well-prepared burger.
To complement your burger of choice, consider pairing it with a refreshing craft beer. An IPA’s bitterness cuts through the burger’s richness, while a lager’s crispness can cleanse the palate between bites. With countless craft breweries around the country, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect brew to suit your taste.
Something about the fiery heat of hot wings keeps us coming back for more. As you cheer on your favourite team, you’ll need a cooling beverage to balance the spice. Enter cider—the ideal accompaniment to your plate of wings.
The natural sweetness of the cider helps temper the wings’ heat, creating a harmonious flavour experience. Plus, with the popularity of craft ciders on the rise, you’ll have plenty of options.
If you’re looking for a slightly more sophisticated game-day spread, consider serving up some gourmet pizza with a bottle of red wine. The wine’s acidity cuts through the pizza’s richness, while the tannins help soften the cheese. To strike the perfect balance, you may opt for a medium-bodied red, such as a Shiraz or a Cabernet Sauvignon.
Few combinations are as satisfying as fish and chips with a cold lager. This classic British pairing offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavours, perfect for indulging during an action-packed football match. The crispy, golden batter encasing tender, flaky fish harmonizes with the hearty, comforting chips, making for a truly indulgent meal.
Pairing this dish with a refreshing lager brings out the best in both components, as the beer’s carbonation and slight bitterness cut through the richness of the fried fish and chips, cleansing the palate and leaving you eager for the next delicious bite. This pairing is sure to score big with football fans everywhere.
Takeaway
Finding the perfect food and drink pairings can greatly enhance your football-watching experience. From savory delights to refreshing beverages, these combinations will elevate the excitement of the game, whether you’re at home or in the stadium. As you prepare for the next match, consider trying these mouth-watering pairings to make the most of your football experience. So, gather your friends, serve up some delicious treats, and enjoy cheering on your favourite team together.