Pour It and Pair It

Whether you're hosting a weekend BBQ or craving a flavorful weeknight meal, the right beverage can elevate your pork dishes to the next level. From savory ham steaks to succulent ribs, we’ve got the perfect drinks to complement the rich, smoky flavors of your favorite Smithfield recipes. Let’s dive into some of the best drink pairings to make every bite even better.

For those tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, you want a drink that can stand up to their rich, savory flavors. A slightly bitter brown ale works wonders here, as it complements the smoky and savory notes of the meat. If you prefer wine, a medium-bodied California Cabernet Sauvignon is the way to go. It pairs perfectly with Smithfield’s Sweet and Smoky Baby Back Ribs balancing the robust flavors without overpowering them.

Suggested Pairings:

• Beer: Brown Ale

• Wine: California Cabernet Sauvignon

Our marinated pork loins are great for any weeknight dinner, and when paired with the right drink, they really shine. Try a refreshing Lager to complement the flavors of the pork or a Bourbon highball for a sweet twist. If you prefer wine, a Pinot Noir will balance the pork’s subtle seasoning without overwhelming the dish.

Suggested Pairings:

• Beer: Lager
• Wine: Pinot Noir

• Cocktail: Bourbon Highball

For a fun twist on your classic burger, swap out beef for Smithfield’s Ground Pork to make juicy, flavorful pork burgers. The richness of the pork pairs beautifully with a cold, citrusy IPA, or you could go for a slightly sweet Pinot Gris to keep the flavors balanced. The mild flavor of ground pork creates the perfect canvas for adding spices, herbs, or even a tangy BBQ sauce.

Suggested Pairings:

• Beer: IPA
• Wine: Pinot Gris
• Cocktail: Margarita

Smithfield’s Ham Steaks are an ideal centerpiece for any meal. For a lighter pairing, opt for a crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. If you're enjoying the ham for brunch, a classic Mimosa or Bloody Mary is a fantastic choice to complement the savory flavors. For a heartier dinner, try a rich Riesling to balance the richness of the ham with a slight sweetness.

Suggested Pairings:

• Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling

• Cocktail: Mimosa or Bloody Mary

For a sweet and savory dish, Smithfield’s Spiral Sliced Ham is the perfect match for a Zinfandel. The wine’s bold fruit-forward flavor and slight spice work beautifully with the glazed sweetness of the ham. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a chilled Chardonnay will complement the ham’s savory notes without overpowering it.

Suggested Pairings:

• Wine: Zinfandel or Chardonnay

• Cocktail: Whiskey Sour

Smithfield’s Pulled Pork made with a slow-cooked Pork Shoulder is a true crowd-pleaser. The smoky, tender meat pairs excellently with a cold, hoppy IPA or a bold Merlot. The slight bitterness of the IPA works well with the richness of the pulled pork, while Merlot enhances the pork’s depth of flavor, especially when paired with tangy BBQ sauce.

Suggested Pairings:

• Beer: IPA
• Wine: Merlot

• Cocktail: Old Fashioned

Enjoy the Perfect Pairing

From Smithfield’s Smoked Baby Back Ribs to our Spiral Sliced Ham, the right drink can elevate your meal to an unforgettable experience. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a family dinner, these drink pairings will make your Smithfield meal even more delicious. Cheers!