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Shochu and Food Pairing

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Two people clinking glasses of water over a table with various dishes including edamame, grilled meat, and sushi.

So you started drinking shochu and you have figured out your favorite type and the perfect way to enjoy it but now what? What food can you pair with your favorites? Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to stick with Japanese cuisine. When deciding on a pairing , the same principles that apply to wine or sake pairings should be considered for shochu pairings as well. Keep flavor components in mind (salty, sweet, bitter, etc.) then decide on matching flavor intensities or complementing flavors.

The Shochu world is your oyster so keep an open mind and consider some of these pairings!

  • Pizza topped with tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and olive oil on a wooden table.

    Imo (Sweet Potato) Shochu

    Pork Chops, Margherita Pizza, Fried Tempura

    Imo shochu has a sweet aroma and taste, the kind that goes well with fatty dishes or fried foods. It is not only intended for Japanese food, but also nicely complements rich Chinese food or pizza with lots of cheese.

  • A bowl of vegetable pasta with colorful vegetables such as carrots, green beans, bell peppers, and zucchini, with a background of fresh tomatoes, green onions, garlic, and a bottle of olive oil on a dark surface.

    Kokuto (Sugarcane) Shochu

    Grilled Chicken, Primavera Pasta, Mozzarella Salad

    Kokuto shochu is made with sugarcane and can taste a little fruity. The fragrance of kokuto shochu is similar to that of sweet syrup, but the taste is simple and mild rather than overly sweet. This particular taste can draw out the original food flavors. It is very good with soy sauce based dishes that have a slight sweetness.

  • Slices of raw salmon garnished with black pepper, parsley, and crushed pepper flakes on a black slate serving platter, with a lemon wedge and a toasted piece of bread.

    Mugi (Barley) Shochu

    Smoked Salmon, Caviar, Sliced Pork with Lemon Sauce

    Mugi shochu has a very clean, fresh taste. There are few bad choices for barley pairings, but it is best enjoyed with simple dishes as opposed to heavy oily ones. The aroma of barley can elegantly enhance a vegetable sauté.

  • A slice of lasagna with cheese and basil on a white plate. In the background are two tomatoes, garlic, and green herbs, on a light surface.

    Awamori (Thai Rice) Shochu

    Pork Chop, Lasagna, Banana Fritter, Thai Food

    The complex aromas and rich flavor of Awamori fares well with spicy or heavy foods. Ideal with cheese and cream-based dishes as they enhance vibrant Awamori flavors.

  • A close-up of sashimi slices on a white plate with green leaves, with soy sauce and sake cups in the background.

    Kome (Rice) Shochu

    Sashimi, Miso-marinated Trout, Tofu Steak

    Kome shochu is full of umami so it can seamlessly pair with almost any type of food. It especially shines with sashimi, crudos and other delicate raw dishes, or employ the basic rule of matching with the like, enjoy Kome shochu with rice dishes.

  • Fried chicken with crispy breading served on a white plate with shredded lettuce and a lemon wedge, on a wooden surface.

    Soba (Buckwheat) Shochu

    Penne Arrabiata, Fried Oysters, Meatballs

    The characteristics of soba shochu are very mild yet distinct. The nutty and smoky aromas can be enjoyed with slightly spicy foods or juicy meats.

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