As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, food plays a pivotal role in the celebration. One dish that seems to dominate this occasion is the beloved chicken wing. Regardless of whether they are tossed in hot sauce, glazed with barbecue, or seasoned with a dry rub, wings are a staple at any Super Bowl gathering. But as any wings aficionado knows, what you drink is just as important as what you eat. In this article, we delve into the art of pairing your chicken wings with craft beers, ensuring your Super Bowl party is a resounding success.
When it comes to iconic chicken wings, J. Timothy’s Taverne in Plainville, Connecticut, is a prominent name that surfaces in culinary conversations. Known for their unique “dirt style” wing preparation, these wings undergo an unusual two-step frying process: they are fried once without sauce, only to be dunked in sauce and fried again. This method, accidentally invented in the 1980s, offers a distinctive texture that has garnered a loyal following. On the eve of the Super Bowl, the restaurant gears up for an extraordinary demand, preparing to sell up to 12 tons of wings—the equivalent of a small mountain of finger food.
For those unable to make the trip to Connecticut, J. Timothy’s renowned buffalo sauce has been recognized nationally, even earning accolades from The Food Network. It is available for purchase online, allowing wing enthusiasts across the country to try their coveted sauce in the comfort of their own homes.
The discussion of the best beer to accompany these mouthwatering wings is not merely a footnote—it is essential to elevating the experience. According to beverage director Nikki Vinci, when it comes to pairing beers with flavorful wings, simplicity is key. The quintessential choice for buffalo wings is a classic golden lager. Light and crisp, these beers offer a refreshing palate cleanse without overshadowing the wings’ flavors.
If your wings tend toward the spicier side—as many buffalo wings do—consider a New England IPA (NEIPA) for a complementary pairing. This particular style, known for its hazy appearance and juicy mouthfeel, can enhance the experience. With flavors reminiscent of orange pulp and a fuller body due to wheat or oats, an NEIPA can create a delightful contrast against spicy and tangy sauces. Experimenting with various NEIPAs, especially those leaning toward tropical and citrus profiles, can produce different delightful results.
For those opting for savory dry rubs, the experience changes dramatically. A chipotle dry rub, like the one served at J. Timothy’s, brings a robust flavor that pairs well with a darker beer. Here, stouts—especially those that are oatmeal or milk-based—can shine. Their rich, roasted characteristics can provide an alluring counterbalance to the spices found in dry rubs. However, it is crucial to select a stout with a higher alcohol content, ideally between 6-7% ABV, to stand up to the strong flavors of the wings.
The unexpected pairing of savory dry rub and a silky stout surprised both myself and Vinci, highlighting how diverse the flavor profiles can be. This illustrates the importance of considering not just the flavor of the wing, but also the beer’s body and flavor complexity.
For sweeter wing sauces, such as sweet Thai chili, a Hefeweizen can be an excellent match. This traditional German wheat beer offers delightful notes of banana and clove, with bright carbonation that cleanses the palate efficiently between bites. The effervescence and flavors of a Hefeweizen can enhance the experience, making every mouthful more enjoyable.
An emerging trend in beer pairings involves smoothie sours, which are light and fruity, often not as sour as their predecessors. When coupled with sweet flavors, they create a thirst-quenching harmony that is exceedingly enjoyable.
As football fans gather to watch one of the biggest sporting events of the year, ensuring the right food and drink pairings can elevate any Super Bowl party. The right combination of wings and beers can create an unforgettable gastronomic experience that pays homage to both the game and good company.
As Super Bowl Sunday nears, remember to enjoy responsibly, sharing not just food and drink, but laughter and camaraderie with friends and loved ones. Cheers to an exciting game and scrumptious wings!