Every year, beer enthusiasts from around the world eagerly await the London Craft Beer Festival. Ahead of the one this year (11-13th August), the Brewers Association’s put an event at Humo. It was all about exploring the art of Ameican craft beer and fire pairing. I had the privilege of attending an experience that redefined my perception of beer and its diverse flavours at Humo, the place for wood fired dining.

Gone are the days when beer is just a regular pint of lager found in local pubs. I have learned over the years, the realm of beer is a labyrinth of flavours, textures, and aromas waiting to be explored.

Humo’s crafted exquisite smoked dishes that danced harmoniously with a selection of craft beers. It was a culinary symphony, each dish meticulously prepared with an artistic touch. What struck me was how the chefs managed to infuse the essence of smoke into every dish, not overpowering but enhancing the flavours in a tantalizing manner.

The Pairing

From the first course to the last, each beer was thoughtfully paired with a dish that brought out the best in both.

• The Bold Mariner Digital Goodbye, with its inviting notes, found a perfect companion in the 10-day aged Ike-Jime Hampshire trout adorned with 3-month aged caviar
• Coronado Weekend Vibes IPA elevated the flavors of Kombu-Gin-Me bream
• DC Brau Penn Quarter Porter showcased its prowess alongside the citrus-infused Yellow Tail
• The marriage of Destihl Tourbus Deadhead Hazy IPA with smoked Cornish Agria potato was a revelation
• The Virginia Beer Company Wee Heavy Waypoint brought out the earthiness of cauliflower cooked under ash
• The 903 Brewers Polynesian Whip Cream Ale lent its touch of refreshment to the vegetarian Amalfi Lemon tart.

My favourite beers had to be the first and last one. I think it is the less hoppy ones I like.

I left the Beer & Fire pairing lunch with a better understanding of beer’s versatility and a palate for trying more. Also knowing the limitless possibilities when it’s paired with the right dishes. Here is a little snippet of the event.

Brewers Association is the not for profit trade association for small and independent American craft brewers. For the third year running they were at the London Beer Festival. The Brewer’s Association’s commitment to showcasing the intricacies of American craft beers.

Beer is important to the US agricultural department and the UK is the second largest importer of US craft beer.

If you want to try smoked food and cannot make it to London, try this one in Stratford upon Avon.

Neha

AD: I was invited to the event. There was no obligation to post and all photos and opinions (unless stated otherwise).