Discover Why Pairing Sake Solely with Japanese Cuisine Could Be Your Biggest Dining Mistake – Insights from Chowhound

Sake is a traditional drink from Japan that has been crafted for centuries. Interestingly, it doesn’t get the same love in the U.S. as wine does. You can easily find wine in stores and restaurants, but sake often feels like it’s limited to Japanese eateries. To dive deeper into this, Chowhound spoke with Jeni Van Nortwick from Sake ONO.

Jeni wants people to appreciate sake not just for its taste but for its history and craftsmanship. She pointed out that for years, many Americans view sake as just something to drink with sushi.

This mindset often reflects broader worldviews about food. We sometimes label items as “common” or “exotic.” By letting go of those labels, we can better explore the unique flavors and experiences sake offers.

You don’t need to go to an upscale Japanese restaurant to enjoy sake. If you’re unsure how to pair it with non-Japanese dishes, think about the flavors you love in your favorite meals. For instance, Nigori sake, with its fruity hints like strawberry, pairs wonderfully with desserts and cheese. On the other hand, smooth sake types like Daiginjo and Ginjo fit beautifully with seafood and pasta.

Jeni reminds us that pairing drinks with food doesn’t need to stick to cultural norms. If it’s okay to have a Czech pilsner with Mexican food or a South African white with Indian cuisine, why not enjoy a junmai daiginjo with Italian seafood stew? The key is to think about flavors and ingredients rather than sticking strictly to traditional pairings.