Pairings
August 29, 2025
The Perfect Pairing: Akaushi Ribeye and the Smoked Old Fashioned
When it comes to elevating a meal from simply delicious to truly unforgettable, the right drink pairing can make all the difference. Today, we're diving into a match made in culinary heaven: the rich, buttery flavor of Legendary Akaushi Beef Ribeye alongside the sophisticated, smoky notes of a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned.
Why This Pairing Works: A Symphony of Flavors
Akaushi beef is renowned for its exceptional marbling, which translates into an incredibly tender and flavorful experience. The ribeye, in particular, boasts a generous amount of intramuscular fat that renders beautifully, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a complex, beefy taste with sweet undertones.
Now, consider the Smoked Old Fashioned. This classic cocktail, made with bourbon, bitters, and a touch of sugar, takes on a whole new dimension when infused with smoke. The smoke introduces an earthy, slightly charred aroma and flavor that complements the inherent richness of the Akaushi ribeye without overpowering it.
Imagine taking a bite of that perfectly seared ribeye – the savory juices, the tender texture – followed by a sip of the smoky, slightly sweet Old Fashioned. The bourbon's warmth and the bitters' complexity cut through the richness of the beef, while the smoke echoes the char from the grill, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. It's a sophisticated dance between robust and refined, a truly immersive dining experience.
Crafting Your Own Smoked Old Fashioned
Creating this cocktail at home is easier than you might think!
Once you have your ingredients – your favorite bourbon, Angostura bitters, a sugar cube or simple syrup, and an orange peel – the key is the smoke. You can achieve this with a handheld smoke infuser and some wood chips (hickory or cherry work wonderfully). Simply prepare your Old Fashioned in a glass, then cover it with the infuser and inject the smoke, allowing it to swirl and infuse for about 30 seconds before removing the cover and serving. The aroma alone is enough to set the stage for an extraordinary meal.
Beyond the Ribeye: Other Akaushi Cuts That Shine
While the ribeye is a classic choice, other cuts of Legendary Akaushi Beef also harmoniously pair with the robust character of a Smoked Old Fashioned.
- Akaushi New York Strip: This cut offers a firmer texture than the ribeye, with a bold, beefy flavor. Its leanness is beautifully balanced by the richness and smoky sweetness of the cocktail, creating a powerful combination.
- Akaushi Flat Iron Steak: Known for its rich marbling and tender texture (when cooked correctly), the flat iron is a flavorful and often more economical option that stands up well to the strong notes of bourbon and smoke.
- Akaushi Sirloin: A leaner cut, the sirloin's pure beef flavor provides a fantastic canvas for the complex layers of the Smoked Old Fashioned. Consider a well-seared sirloin with a slightly crusty exterior to complement the drink's smoky char.
The Ultimate Culinary Experience
Whether you choose a succulent ribeye, a robust New York strip, or another exquisite cut of Legendary Akaushi Beef, the addition of a Smoked Old Fashioned elevates your dining experience to a truly gourmet level. It's more than just a meal; it's an exploration of flavor, a celebration of quality ingredients, and a moment to savor.
So, next time you're planning a special dinner, consider this perfect pairing. Grill your favorite Legendary Akaushi cut to perfection, and mix up a smoky Old Fashioned. Your taste buds will thank you for the unforgettable journey.