There are few things in life as satisfying as a perfectly paired beer with a spicy, flavorful curry. The right beer can enhance the spices, balance the heat, and bring out the complex layers of flavor in the dish. But with so many beer styles available, which one should you choose? Here’s a guide to the best beers to enjoy with your next Indian, Pakistani, or Bangladeshi curry feast.
Lagers, particularly light and pilsner-style lagers, are one of the best choices to accompany a curry. Their crispness and carbonation help cleanse the palate, washing away the heat and intensifying the spices. Classic options include:
Kingfisher (India) – A go-to choice with Indian cuisine, offering a light and refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with biryanis and chicken tikka masala.
Cobra (India/UK) – Specially brewed to complement South Asian dishes, its smooth and malty character works well with rich, spicy curries like butter chicken or korma.
Bangla Beer (Bangladesh) – A full-bodied lager that holds up against the bold flavours of dishes like beef bhuna or chicken rezala.
Image By Kingfisher.com
For those who want a bit more depth, pale ales offer a great balance of malt sweetness and hoppy bitterness, making them a versatile pairing for many curries.
Meantime Prime Pale Ale – A light, citrusy ale that enhances tomato-based curries such as rogan josh or jalfrezi.
Goose Island IPA – Works well with spicier curries, thanks to its mild bitterness and fruity notes that contrast with the heat of dishes like vindaloo or madras.
Image By Meantimebrewing.com
India Pale Ales (IPAs) can be a great choice if you enjoy bolder flavors. Their hoppy bitterness can complement the richness of a curry, while their fruity notes contrast with the heat.
BrewDog Punk IPA – With tropical and citrus undertones, it pairs beautifully with spicy Pakistani karahi dishes.
Lagunitas IPA – A slightly maltier IPA that goes well with medium-heat dishes like Bangladeshi shatkora beef.
Jaipur IPA – A well-balanced hoppy ale that cuts through the spice of lamb bhuna and keema matar.
Image By Brewdog.com
Wheat beers, such as Hefeweizens and Belgian-style Witbiers, are smooth and often have citrus and spice notes that complement aromatic curries.
Hoegaarden (Belgium) – Its orange peel and coriander flavors match well with milder, coconut-based curries like Bengali malai curry or Goan prawn curry.
Erdinger Weissbier (Germany) – A wheat beer that pairs beautifully with creamy kormas and saag paneer.
Blue Moon (USA) – The subtle sweetness and orange zest notes enhance the complexity of mild yet flavourful dishes like shahi paneer or chicken pasanda.
Image By Hoegaarden.com
For hearty, meaty curries like Pakistani nihari, Indian rogan josh, or Bangladeshi beef rezala, stouts and porters bring a malty depth that complements smoky and grilled flavours.
Guinness (Ireland) – The creamy, roasted malt flavors pair well with heavily spiced dishes, providing a rich contrast.
Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout – A sweeter, chocolatey stout that works surprisingly well with hot and robust curries like a fiery Laal Maas.
London Porter (Fuller’s) – A slightly lighter option with caramel notes to balance spice, making it a good match for dal makhani or spicy kebabs.
Image By Guinness.com
The best beer for your curry ultimately depends on your spice tolerance and the type of dish you’re enjoying. Lagers and wheat beers are safe, refreshing choices, while IPAs and stouts cater to those who love bold and adventurous flavours. Whatever your preference, the right beer can elevate your Indian, Pakistani, or Bangladeshi curry experience to a whole new level.
Check the East Midlands Curry Run homepage to explore curry restaurants in the East Midlands. You can view the many options available and see the beer or alcohol section to find the perfect pairing for your next curry. Cheers!