Pumpkin; from Pie to Coffee, now to Beer!

Throughout October many of us, especially those of us with young kids around, may find ourselves wandering, or riding, our way through a pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect pumpkin. While memories of carving jack-o-lanterns for halloween goes back to childhood for many of us, the pumpkin historically very rarely made it into our culinary pursuits with the exception of pumpkin pie. Pumpkin appears almost everywhere this time of year: from pumpkin pie, to pumpkin spiced lattes and even into our pumpkin spiced beers!

It is in the senses, most notably taste and smell, that most culinary pursuits gain their fame. When it comes to pumpkin beer the spices definitely bring a much desired quality to the brew. While each batch may have their own secret blend, the spices reached for most often include ginger, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg and cloves.  Cardomom is also makes an occasional appearance in some, but not all, pumpkin spice ales. Interested in checking out the different styles and types of beers, here’s an into guide;

http://www.canadiancook.ca/2016/09/30/a-beginners-guide-to-beers/

Ale is the most popular style of pumpkin spiced beer. You would be hard pressed to find a pumpkin spiced beer in a lager style, yet one worth trying if found. A light to dark brown colour will adorn your glass, similar to apple cider, when poured. The above-mentioned spices definitely come to the forefront, although some brands have a lighter spice than others. If you are one who loves the high hop notes of an IPA, stick to them; most pumpkin spice offerings do not have an over abundance of hoppy flavour.

What goes better with beer than food, but the question undoubtedly comes up as to which food to serve. When it comes to any pairings intensity of flavours needs to be consistent. A mildly spiced beer goes better with a mildly spiced food, and vice versa. Having gotten that out of the way, saucy items such as wings or pulled pork can work well with anything from a savoury garlic parmesan to a sweet honey garlic sauce. When going for heat beware, a little can work well, however going over the top will certainly stay with you.

Pumpkin spiced beer, just like pumpkin spice, has certainly made its mark on this time of year. Intensities and flavour combinations can vary however when served alongside a meaningful meal of sweet or savoury foods a pumpkin spiced beer is not out of place. However you choose to enjoy your pumpkin spiced brew, please enjoy responsibly.