A tiradito with a good white wine? Nikkei sushi with sake? Fresh, intense and delicious, Nikkei cuisine has flavors that deserve the ideal accompaniment.
Discover the best options for pairing and enjoy this gastronomic fusion to the fullest.
What makes Nikkei cuisine unique?
Before entering the world of food pairing, it is important to understand what makes Nikkei cuisine unique. Its dishes stand out for fresh and acidic flavors, such as the citrus found in tiger’s milk, umami touches from ingredients such as soy and miso, and sweet and spicy notes that balance the whole.
In addition, ingredients such as raw fish, yellow chili and seaweed add texture and flavor that require care in the choice of beverages.
To get it right, the pairing must enhance these flavors without overshadowing them. The key is to find drinks that complement the characteristic contrasts of Nikkei cuisine, creating a harmonious experience in every bite and sip.
Wines: versatile allies for Nikkei cuisine
Wine is one of the most popular choices for pairing this cuisine, but not just any bottle will do. Here are some recommendations that never fail:
- Fresh and aromatic white wines: opt for varieties such as sauvignon blanc or riesling. These wines, with their acidity and citrus notes, harmonize perfectly with dishes such as nikkei ceviches or tiraditos. They highlight the freshness of fish and balance the acidic flavors of citrus fruits.
- Dry sparkling wines: a cava or prosecco can be the ideal choice for a Nikkei menu. Its bubbles and acidity cut the fat of richer dishes, such as tuna tataki with creamy sauces or lomo saltado with chili.
- Light and fruity reds: if you prefer red wine, opt for a pinot noir or a young grenache. Their low tannin content makes them ideal to accompany dishes with delicate ingredients such as raw fish or tofu, preventing the wine flavor from overwhelming the dish.
Beers for pairing with refreshing touches
Beer is another fantastic option, especially if you prefer something more casual but equally delicious. Look for beers that are not too bitter or heavy, as they could overpower the flavors of the dish:
- Lager beers: a Japanese lager or a light pilsner will perfectly complement the freshness of ceviches and tiraditos, thanks to its mild character and palate-cleansing ability.
- Wheat beers: If you are going to enjoy more spicy dishes, such as a nikkei maki with aji amarillo, a wheat beer will be ideal. Its silky texture and citrus notes balance the spiciness and bring out the flavors.
- Light craft beers: If you like to experiment, look for a pale ale with tropical notes or a sour beer. Both will bring a unique dimension to pairing with Nikkei dishes.
Sake and pisco: the stars of nikkei pairing
We cannot talk about Nikkei cuisine without mentioning two of its most representative drinks: sake and pisco. Each one has its own magic when it comes to accompanying this type of dishes.
- Sake: dry and slightly fruity sake is a perfect companion for Nikkei sushi, nigiris and raw fish dishes. Its versatility and balance enhance the flavors of the dish without competing with them. If you’re looking for something special, try a sparkling sake for starters.
- Pisco: as a great protagonist of Peruvian culture, pisco is ideal for pairing with dishes that include chili, citrus and seafood. A pisco sour is a classic choice, but you can also opt for lighter versions, such as chilcano, to balance more intense dishes.
Play with cocktails for a unique experience
If you want to give a creative touch to the pairing, cocktails can be an excellent option:
- Margaritas and mojitos: ideal to accompany ceviches and tiraditos, thanks to their citric and refreshing notes.
- Gin tonics with exotic touches: adding a twist of ginger, coriander or yuzu to your gin and tonic can create a surprising combination with Nikkei dishes.
- Japanese whisky: for more intense dishes, such as Nikkei-style meats, a smooth and balanced Japanese whisky may be the perfect choice.
Enjoy the perfect balance
Pairing with Nikkei cuisine is an art that consists of seeking balance, freshness and harmony between the dish and the beverage. Experiment with these combinations and adjust according to your palate.
And if you want to live a unique experience that combines the best of Peruvian, Japanese and Asturian cuisine, we invite you to discover Ronda 14. In our restaurants, each dish is a celebration of flavors, creativity and product.
Do you dare to try it? Cheers and bon appetit!