Pair your favorite Irish beer with plant-based snacks

Celebrations around St. Patrick’s Day have shifted widely over the centuries from a somber religious feast to a raucous recognition of cultural heritage. Whether you’re Irish yourself or just want to join in the fun, you can pair your preferred Irish brew with snacks built around Shire’s Naturals dairy-free cheeses.

Combine these options for a grazing board with pops of green for a festive gathering, or enjoy them individually as a snack with simple ingredients. Shire’s spreads make it easy to create festive, familiar appetizers without compromising on quality.

Comfort with a kick

You can use Shire’s Naturals cream cheese to make homemade, dairy-free jalapeno poppers.

Halve about eight to 10 jalapeno peppers and remove the pith and seeds. Fill the cavity with the cream cheese. In one bowl, mix ½ cup non-dairy milk and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. In a second bowl, fill with 1/3 cup flour. In a final bowl, add ½ cup panko breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt. Dunk the filled jalapeno halves in each bowl: first flour, then milk and lastly panko. Then, fry the peppers in an oil of your choosing on medium-high heat for about three minutes, or cook in an air fryer at 375 degrees for at least six minutes.

Warm, creamy and with a gentle heat, this great starter pairs well with an Irish Red Ale. The ale’s slight sweetness can help cool the jalapeno’s heat, while its crisp finish refreshes the palate. 

Fresh and bright balance

With St. Patrick’s Day right on the cusp of the equinox, you might be feeling that it’s time to move away from the heartier, richer dishes of winter to the light, refreshing snacks of spring. Try pairing slices of cucumber with Shire’s Naturals Garlic and Herb cheese spread for a simple, satisfying snack.

Pair it with a blonde ale for a drink that keeps flavors crisp. The subtlety of the hops complements the spread’s herb taste without overpowering.

Serving it as part of a party spread? Cut your cukes into a three-leaf clover shape. 

Classic pub experience

When you really want to lean into the Irish pub vibes, pair Shire’s Naturals Pub Cheese with crunchy pretzels and an Irish dry stout like Guinness. These all have deep, savory flavors. The roasted bell peppers and seasonings of the pub cheese act as a creamy, sweet and spicy dip for pretzels that provide crunch, plus a salted and toasted taste.

The stout echoes that toasted taste with the roasted barley, while the richness enhances the cheese’s sharpness.

 

Keep things simple this St. Patrick’s Day so you can focus on the fun. Good company with delicious snacks and thoughtful pairings set the scene for an evening of revelry. With Shire’s Naturals, dairy-free hosting can still feel festive, rich and satisfying.