Once upon a time, the Super Bowl was simply the championship game between football’s two conference winners. Half-time entertainment consisted of a college marching band.
In the 40-plus years since the first Super Bowl, the game has taken on a life of its own. Being chosen to sing the National Anthem is a badge of honor. Advertisers spend millions of dollars to roll out their latest commercial campaigns and productions like movie premiers.
As the game, pre-game hype and entertainment have escalated, so have the parties. Like every championship caliber coach, we exhort you to elevate your game. Or, to be precise, elevate your party.
With that in mind, here are some suggestions to help you to raise the bar (no pun intended) at your game day celebration, and, most importantly, give you some ideas for fabulous food and beer pairings.
Cold Smoked Salmon Pizza
The salty smoky flavor of the fish is tamed by the slightly hoppy aroma of Moretti, delicate malt flavor and smooth finish of Birra Moretti Pilsner.
1 cup sour cream
1 sprig fresh dill, finely chopped
½ teaspoon rice vinegar
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Lavash bread or crackers
Smoked salmon, sliced thin
Capers
Red onions, finely chopped
Blend 1 cup of sour cream with dill, rice vinegar and Worcestershire. Spread a thin layer of sour cream on a full size lavash or individual lavash crackers. Cover Lavash with a slice of smoked salmon. Garnish with capers and finely chopped red onions.
Spicy Dry Rubbed Short Ribs
The deep red color and caramelized barley flavors of Moretti LaRossa compliment the carbonized meat from the grill. Moretti LaRossa has the strength to stand up to the powerful flavor of BBQ.
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup paprika
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dry mustard
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon cumin
3 pounds short ribs
Combine all ingredients; apply to meat and refrigerate for at least an hour before cooking. Preheat oven to 350° degrees. Cover pan; bake for 2 ½-3 hours or until tender.
Other pairings suggestions:
St. Agur Blue Cheese on toasted baguette:
The cheese is so rich it spreads like butter. The Saaz hops in Paulaner Pilsner allow a cleansing herbal component, while the dryness of the beer contrasts with the decadently rich cheese.
Cooked Shrimp and Crab Claws:
The citrusy character of Paulaner Hefe-Weizen accompanies the fresh and vibrant flavors of the chilled seafood, fresh squeezed lemon and tangy cocktail sauce.
For more information on Paulaner and Moretti, please visit www.starbrandimports.com.
Published: January 29, 2007
