Red wine is the go-to classic to pair with steak. The dry tannins in red wine help balance out the rich fat content of the steak for a taste that is both enjoyable and satisfying. However, you can use red wine when pairing drinks with your steak meal. If you want something more flavorful or creative, try adding a cocktail instead! Here are some of our favorite combinations for beefing up your steak dinner:
Manhattan
This classic cocktail is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. The whiskey flavor pairs perfectly with a healthy portion of steak, while the sweetness adds the proper depth to bring out all of its flavors.
The Manhattan was first made in the 1800s and has remained popular because of its unique flavor profile that is both sweet and bitter with herbal undertones. This drink is not overly sweet, but when paired with a rich and juicy steak, it creates a perfect contrast that enhances the flavors of both dishes.
Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail, typically made with gin, vermouth Rosso, and Campari. It is frequently garnished with an orange peel for extra flavor. To make a traditional Negroni, stir the ingredients together over ice in an old-fashioned glass or rocks glass.
Gin and sweet vermouth are topped with a splash of Campari for a tart, slightly bitter drink that’s great with steak. The herbal notes in the gin and the sweet-tartness of the Campari bring out all the flavors in your steak.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned drink is not one to be forgotten, despite its name. First created in the 1800s for the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, this cocktail consists of bourbon (or brandy), sugar, Angostura bitters, and orange peel. Combined, these flavors result in a delicious depth of flavor that makes for the perfect pairing with steak.
This whiskey-based cocktail is perfect for pairing with steak because it has just enough sweetness to balance out the richness of the steak. Plus, it’s a classic that never gets old!
Margarita
A margarita is a refreshing cocktail made with Tequila, triple sec, and lime juice. It’s often served with salt on the rim of the glass and can be ordered shaken with ice (on the rocks), blended with ice (frozen margarita), or without ice (straight up). The drink is generally served in a stepped-diameter variant of a cocktail glass, or champagne coupe called a margarita glass.
Tequila and fresh lime juice make this drink perfect for pairing with steak since the bright acidic flavor of the lime helps cut through the richness of the steak, making it a great accompaniment.
Martini
You can have your martini any way you like, but we recommend dry if you pair it with steak. This cocktail is just gin and vermouth–quite refreshing on its own. It’s the perfect drink to accompany a decadent steak dinner because its simple flavor won’t compete with the meal.
Gin, dry vermouth, and a twist of lemon make this drink perfect for steak. The herbal notes in the gin pair perfectly with the flavor of the beef, while the dryness brings out all its juicy flavors.
Mojito
The Mojito is a delicious summer drink that pairs well with steak. The mojito has many variations, but it is typically made with white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water, and mint. These sweet and refreshing flavors balance out the crispness of the rum.
The light sweetness and brightness of the rum pair perfectly with the steak. Try a mojito with your steak dinner to enjoy a palate cleanser that readies you to savor every bit of professionally prepared and high-quality steak.
Bloody Mary
If you like a little zing in your drink, order a Bloody Mary the next time you will have a steak. This original cocktail is mixed with vodka, tomato juice, and different flavors, for example, Worcestershire sauce, garlic cloves, horseradish root, and lime or lemon juice. To give it an extra punch, request some Tabasco sauce be added too.
The bright flavors in Bloody Mary complement the savory taste of steak without overpowering it. Just be careful not to make your cocktail too spicy. It should cleanse your palate between bites so you can fully enjoy the flavor of your steak.
Adding cocktails to your steak dinner can create unique flavor profiles that will enhance your already incredible meal. So next time you’re having steak for dinner, don’t forget to pick up one of these excellent mixed drinks! They’ll make your steak dinner even more delicious. Cheers!