When it comes to enjoying mezze, the small, shareable plates of food that are a staple of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, the right drink can elevate the experience from delicious to divine. But what do you drink with mezze? The answer, much like the dishes themselves, is varied and exciting.
A Brief History of Mezze
Before we dive into the world of drinks, let’s take a brief look at the history of mezze. The word “mezze” comes from the Turkish word “meze,” which means “taste” or “snack.” Mezze has its roots in ancient Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures, where small plates of food were served as a way to enjoy good company and conversation.
Over time, mezze evolved and spread throughout the region, with different countries and cultures adding their own unique twists and flavors. Today, mezze is enjoyed not just in the Middle East and Mediterranean, but around the world, and is often served as a way to experience the flavors and hospitality of these regions.
Traditional Drinks to Pair with Mezze
So, what do you drink with mezze? Here are some traditional drinks that pair perfectly with these small plates of food:
Araq
Araq is a clear, anise-flavored spirit that is popular in the Middle East and Mediterranean. It’s often served as a digestif, but it’s also a great match for mezze. Araq is typically served chilled, and is often mixed with water, which causes it to turn cloudy and release its anise flavor.
How to Drink Araq with Mezze
When drinking araq with mezze, it’s traditional to start with a small amount of araq, mixed with water, and then to alternate between sips of araq and bites of mezze. This allows you to fully experience the flavors of both the drink and the food.
Ouzo
Ouzo is a Greek spirit that is similar to araq, but has a stronger anise flavor. It’s often served as a digestif, but it’s also a great match for mezze. Ouzo is typically served chilled, and is often mixed with water or juice.
How to Drink Ouzo with Mezze
When drinking ouzo with mezze, it’s traditional to start with a small amount of ouzo, mixed with water, and then to alternate between sips of ouzo and bites of mezze. This allows you to fully experience the flavors of both the drink and the food.
Wine
Wine is another popular drink to pair with mezze. In the Middle East and Mediterranean, wine is often served as a way to enjoy good company and conversation. When it comes to pairing wine with mezze, there are many options to choose from.
White Wine
White wine is a great match for mezze, especially when it comes to dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, and grilled halloumi cheese. Some popular white wines to pair with mezze include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Assyrtiko.
Red Wine
Red wine is also a great match for mezze, especially when it comes to dishes like grilled meats, stews, and rich dips like baba ganoush. Some popular red wines to pair with mezze include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.
Modern Drinks to Pair with Mezze
While traditional drinks like araq, ouzo, and wine are always a great match for mezze, there are also many modern drinks that pair perfectly with these small plates of food. Here are a few options:
Craft Beer
Craft beer is a great match for mezze, especially when it comes to dishes like grilled meats, stews, and rich dips. Some popular craft beers to pair with mezze include IPAs, pale ales, and porters.
How to Pair Craft Beer with Mezze
When pairing craft beer with mezze, it’s a good idea to start with a lighter beer and then move to a heavier one. This allows you to fully experience the flavors of both the beer and the food.
Cocktails
Cocktails are another great match for mezze, especially when it comes to dishes like grilled meats, stews, and rich dips. Some popular cocktails to pair with mezze include the classic gin and tonic, the vodka martini, and the whiskey sour.
How to Pair Cocktails with Mezze
When pairing cocktails with mezze, it’s a good idea to start with a lighter cocktail and then move to a heavier one. This allows you to fully experience the flavors of both the cocktail and the food.
Soft Drinks and Juices
While alcoholic drinks are always a great match for mezze, there are also many soft drinks and juices that pair perfectly with these small plates of food. Here are a few options:
Lemonade
Lemonade is a classic drink that pairs perfectly with mezze. It’s refreshing, tangy, and helps to cut the richness of many mezze dishes.
How to Make Lemonade to Pair with Mezze
To make lemonade to pair with mezze, simply mix together freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar, and water. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh mint for extra flavor.
Juice
Juice is another great match for mezze, especially when it comes to dishes like grilled meats, stews, and rich dips. Some popular juices to pair with mezze include orange, grapefruit, and pomegranate.
How to Pair Juice with Mezze
When pairing juice with mezze, it’s a good idea to start with a lighter juice and then move to a heavier one. This allows you to fully experience the flavors of both the juice and the food.
Conclusion
Mezze is a delicious and varied cuisine that is perfect for enjoying with friends and family. Whether you prefer traditional drinks like araq, ouzo, and wine, or modern drinks like craft beer, cocktails, and soft drinks, there’s something for everyone when it comes to pairing drinks with mezze. So next time you’re enjoying mezze, be sure to try one of these drinks and experience the flavors of the Middle East and Mediterranean in a whole new way.
| Drink | Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Araq | Grilled meats, stews, rich dips |
| Ouzo | Grilled meats, stews, rich dips |
| White Wine | Hummus, tabbouleh, grilled halloumi cheese |
| Red Wine | Grilled meats, stews, rich dips |
| Craft Beer | Grilled meats, stews, rich dips |
| Cocktails | Grilled meats, stews, rich dips |
| Lemonade | Rich dips, grilled meats, stews |
| Juice | Grilled meats, stews, rich dips |
In conclusion, the right drink can elevate the experience of enjoying mezze from delicious to divine. Whether you prefer traditional drinks like araq, ouzo, and wine, or modern drinks like craft beer, cocktails, and soft drinks, there’s something for everyone when it comes to pairing drinks with mezze.
What is Mezze and how does it relate to drinks?
Mezze is a selection of small dishes, typically served in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, often accompanied by drinks. The term ‘mezze’ is derived from the Persian word ‘maza,’ which means ‘taste’ or ‘snack.’ Mezze is designed to be shared among friends and family, creating a social atmosphere where people can gather and enjoy good food and company.
When it comes to pairing mezze with drinks, the options are endless. From refreshing cocktails to rich wines, each drink can complement the flavors and textures of the mezze. For example, a classic combination is pairing hummus with a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling cocktail. The creamy texture of the hummus is balanced by the crisp acidity of the wine, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
What are some popular Mezze dishes that pair well with drinks?
Some popular mezze dishes that pair well with drinks include falafel, tabbouleh, and grilled halloumi cheese. Falafel, a crispy and flavorful chickpea patty, is often paired with a refreshing beer or a zesty cocktail. Tabbouleh, a salad made with bulgur, parsley, and mint, is typically paired with a light and crisp white wine. Grilled halloumi cheese, a Cypriot specialty, is often served with a glass of rich red wine or a sweet dessert wine.
These mezze dishes can be paired with a variety of drinks, depending on personal preference. For example, a spicy falafel can be balanced by a cool and creamy cocktail, while a rich halloumi cheese can be paired with a sweet and dessert-like wine. The key is to experiment and find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds.
What types of drinks are commonly served with Mezze?
Drinks commonly served with mezze include wine, beer, cocktails, and spirits. In the Mediterranean region, wine is a staple drink that pairs well with many mezze dishes. Beer is also popular, particularly in the Middle East, where it is often served with spicy or savory mezze. Cocktails, such as those made with ouzo or arak, are also popular in some regions.
In addition to these drinks, spirits such as rakı and ouzo are also commonly served with mezze. These anise-flavored spirits are often enjoyed as a digestif or used as a base for cocktails. Other drinks, such as fresh juices and teas, can also be served with mezze, particularly in more casual settings.
How do I choose the right drink to pair with Mezze?
Choosing the right drink to pair with mezze depends on several factors, including the type of mezze, personal taste, and the occasion. When selecting a drink, consider the flavors and textures of the mezze. For example, a rich and savory mezze may be paired with a bold and full-bodied wine, while a light and refreshing mezze may be paired with a crisp and citrusy cocktail.
Another factor to consider is the occasion. If you’re hosting a formal dinner party, you may want to opt for a more sophisticated drink, such as a fine wine or a craft cocktail. If you’re hosting a casual gathering, a beer or a refreshing cocktail may be more suitable. Ultimately, the key is to experiment and find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds and the occasion.
Can I serve Mezze and drinks at a formal event?
Mezze and drinks can be served at a formal event, such as a wedding or a dinner party. In fact, mezze is often served at formal events in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. To make mezze and drinks suitable for a formal event, consider using high-quality ingredients and presentation. For example, you can serve mezze on elegant platters or in decorative bowls.
When it comes to drinks, consider serving fine wines, craft cocktails, or premium spirits. You can also consider hiring a bartender or a sommelier to help with drink pairings and service. To add a touch of elegance, consider serving mezze and drinks in a formal setting, such as a dining room or a ballroom.
How do I serve Mezze and drinks at a casual gathering?
Serving mezze and drinks at a casual gathering is easy and convenient. To create a relaxed atmosphere, consider serving mezze in small bowls or on platters, allowing guests to graze and mingle. You can also consider setting up a DIY drink station, where guests can create their own cocktails or pour their own wine.
To add a touch of casual elegance, consider using decorative serving dishes and glasses. You can also consider serving mezze and drinks in a outdoor setting, such as a patio or a backyard. To make the event more interactive, consider hosting a mezze-making station or a cocktail-making competition.
Can I serve Mezze and drinks at a themed party?
Mezze and drinks can be served at a themed party, such as a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-themed party. To create a themed atmosphere, consider decorating with traditional elements, such as colorful tiles, lanterns, and textiles. You can also consider serving traditional mezze dishes and drinks, such as hummus, tabbouleh, and ouzo.
To add a touch of authenticity, consider hiring a musician or a dancer to perform traditional music or dance. You can also consider serving mezze and drinks in traditional serving dishes and glasses. To make the event more interactive, consider hosting a mezze-making station or a traditional dance lesson.