SakéOne Blog

Unexpected Saké Pairings

Mar 8th, 2023 by Gwyn Bjordammen

Saké is often thought to only be paired with sushi, but there are so many incredible pairings that will make your drinking experience unique. From spicy food to umami dishes, to desserts and salads, there are many different types of saké that will bring out the flavors of each dish.

Here are five saké pairings that will change how you drink saké.

Spicy foods

Spicy dishes and saké can be a match made in heaven. An earthy and dry Junmai style saké is a great match for spicy food because the flavors of the saké will accentuate the heat in the dish.

The creamy Nigori style saké is also a great pairing because the creaminess of the saké will make a lovely contrast to the dish’s spice.    

 Our Recommendations

Hakutsuru Ukiyo-E

Momokawa Pearl Nigori

Umami forward Dishes 

Umami food and saké are also great pairings. Umami is often described as a savory flavor and the Junmai style saké is characterized by a rich aroma and strong flavor of the rice. A pairing of umami rich Junmai, compliments dishes with a similar flavor profile.

Our Recommendations

Hakutsuru Excellent Junmai

Kasumi Tsuru Yamahai Tokubetsu

Desserts

Desserts and saké are a delightful pairing. The creamy sweetness of the Nigori style is a perfect match for the sweetness of a yummy treat.

Sparkling saké is also a great choice because it often has a sweet flavor that will pair well with your dessert.  

Our Recommendations

Murai Family Nigori Genshu

Hakutsuru Sayuri Nigori

Hakutsuru Awa Yuki

American Classics and Meat

 Meat and American favorites are scrumptious when paired with saké. Junmai or Genshu saké will help to bring out the flavors of the meat or American dish. The acidity of saké can also help to cut through the grease, making the dish more enjoyable.  

Our Recommendations

g Joy Genshu

g Fifty Genshu

Salads

Saké and salads are a refreshing pairing. The Junmai Ginjo style saké is a great choice because of its fruity aroma. This will add a complex flavor to the salad and the Junmai Ginjo style saké pairs very well with light dishes.  

Our Recommendations

Momokawa Organic Junmai

yoshinogawa winter warrior sake

Yoshi No Gawa Winter Warrior

From spicy food to umami dishes, there are many different types of saké that will bring out the flavors of each dish. Saké has many unexpected pairings that will make your drinking experience unique and special. Give these five saké pairings a try and experience the flavors that saké has to offer.