Shochu and Food Pairing
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!
Shochu and Their Matching Foods
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 is especially shines with sashimi, crudos and other delicate raw dishes. Or employ the basic rule of matching like with like, enjoy Kome shochu with rice dishes.
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.