Wagyu beef, the highly-marbled beef native to Japanese cattle, has a rich taste unlike any other meat in the world. When you’re in possession of such a savory food and wondering what to pair with a Wagyu steak, it might be difficult to know what pairs best with such a savory delicacy. There’s no perfect complementary answer. A common choice would be a neutral dish or subtle drink that achieves a wonderful balance of flavor. Let’s take a closer look at a couple of ideal pairings.
Drinks: Wine and Dine
Wagyu beef isn’t an everyday kind of thing; you won’t eat it daily. Hence, this flavorful meat must be fully celebrated for what it is: a specialty item. As a main dish that’s rich, delicate, and delightful on its own, a nice complement would be a silky drink that makes a just-as-bold statement.
Many beef connoisseurs like to pair Wagyu with red wine, such as a well-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or French Bordeaux. More than likely, you won’t have any terrible taste experiences with your usual favorite wines. However, consider your meat preference as well. A general rule of thumb to follow is the rarer the steak, the bolder the wine. If you’d prefer something a bit different, traditional Japanese sake—made out of rice, water, koji mold, and yeast—tastes particularly fine paired with Wagyu.
Side Dishes: Choose Light Over Heavy
A nice crunch is ideal to complement the juicy, mouth-watering Wagyu tenderness. If you’re curious about what side dishes to pair with a wagyu steak, don’t turn to the dark side. Err on the side of caution and choose something indistinct and light. Neutral vegetables such as leeks, sauteed mushrooms, or baked potatoes pair nicely, as well as something crunchier like lightly seasoned green beans, asparagus, or broccoli. Salt, pepper, olive oil, and butter are suitable seasonings on any side dish of your choice.
Did Someone Say Dessert?
You may absolutely be stuffed after a good serving of prime Wagyu steak, but if you have a sweet tooth and a little room left for dessert then you’re still in luck. Choose a lighter, fruity dessert for a true sweetness that’ll stand out. A nice pairing is a crusty tart or pie, a creamy sorbet, or a crumbly baked good to finish the meal on a high note.
Regardless of your pairing choices, Wagyu beef is a mouthwatering delicacy in its own right. Perfect for special occasions, Wagyu can turn any meal into the meal of the year. Here at Lone Mountain Wagyu, we carry a variety of gourmet Wagyu products including Wagyu steak, Wagyu roast, Wagyu sausages, and other specialty cuts or seasonal sets. Check out our available selection today. We promise every bite is the ultimate feast experience for your senses.