The Final Draft > The Best Smithwick’s Red Ale Recipes
The Best Smithwick’s Red Ale Recipes
It’s no secret that a pint of Smithwick’s is the secret weapon to liven up many meals. But did you know it makes a delicious ingredient in cooking too? From fish recipes to delectable desserts, the distinctive Irish red ale has the ability to bring out the best from a number of classic dishes. Here are some of the best ways to use Smithwick’s as a key ingredient in easy to prepare recipes.
Smithwick’s Battered Fish
One of the best ways to use ale is making it into a delicious batter for fish. For this recipe the best kind of fish to use is a cod fillet which will retain its soft, flaky texture whilst being encased in a crispy outer coating. To make an easy to prepare batter combine 95g all-purpose flour, a teaspoon of paprika, one bottle of Smithwick’s, a beaten egg and salt and pepper to season. Once you have a smooth mixture, use it to coat fillets before deep frying for a delicious mid-week meal.
Red Ale Cheese on Toast (Welsh Rarebit)
Welsh Rarebit is a classic comforter and ideal for a snack any time of the day. Smithwick’s is the perfect beer to pair with this bite, giving it a flavourful balanced taste. To prepare, mix 350g of cheddar with a beaten egg, four tablespoons of Smithwick’s Red Ale, one tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and mustard, and a sprinkle of cayenne together. Smear the mixture on top of some toast and cook until it begins to melt. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top before it turns golden brown and serve while it’s still warm.
Smithwick’s Chocolate Cake
Beer and cake make a surprisingly winning combination. Using Smithwick’s in a simple chocolate cake recipe elevates this dessert into a sure showstopper. The secret ingredient gives a kick to the smooth, chocolatey texture, adding flavour, depth, and surprise. To make this dessert, heat 500ml of Smithwick’s Red Ale, 250g cocoa powder, and 100g butter in a pan. When it’s melted, add 125g brown sugar and 310g white sugar until the mixture comes together and set this aside. In another bowl beat two eggs then mix with cooled chocolate mixture. In a large bowl mix 500g flour, 1 tablespoon baking soda, and salt. Add the mixture to the dry ingredients and whisk together. Pour this into a cake tin and bake for 35-40 min at 350° turning halfway through.
Smithwick’s (French) Onion Soup
This classic dish is a perfect lunch or side to any meal. With the addition of Smithwick’s beer, French and Irish traditions fuse delectably. To prepare this simple soup, simply heat 25g of butter and one tablespoon of oil in a large pan and cook 6 thinly sliced onions and 3 cloves of garlic until brown (roughly about 20 minutes in total). Afterwards stir in 2 tablespoons of flour, 300ml of Smithwick’s and simmer this mixture for a few minutes. Add approximately 1 litre of beef stock, bring back to a simmer, then season with salt and pepper and a splash of Worcestershire sauce as desired. Keep the soup warm before serving.