As some may know we are very passionate about food and wine. We have noted the heavy emphasis on meat when it comes to wine and wanted to shed some light on plant based cuisine that works together with wines.

Choosing plant based cuisine is good for you, good for climate and animal welfare. Food and wine were made for each other and this is true whether we choose meat or plants.

Today I will explore a few pairings featuring plant-based dishes with the big wines from Piemonte, such as Barbera d’Asti, Nizza, Nebbiolo, and Roero Arneis, offering you a delightful exploration of flavors and textures.

Here are some tailored suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Roasted Vegetable Risotto with Barbera d’Asti

The high acidity and bright red fruit notes of Barbera d’Asti complement the creamy texture and savory depth of a roasted vegetable risotto, creating a harmonious balance.

Mushroom and Lentil Stew with Nizza

Nizza, a premium Barbera with aging in oak, offers richer flavors and a fuller body, making it an excellent match for hearty plant-based stews featuring the umami flavor profile of mushrooms and lentils. For an extra dark twist try glossy black Beluga Lentils.

Grilled Eggplant with Tomato Sauce and Nebbiolo

The tannic structure and earthy notes of Nebbiolo wines, such as Barolo or Barbaresco, pair well with grilled eggplant dishes, especially those with tomato-based sauces, enhancing the dish’s complexity.

In contrast a creamy delicate dish of Crespelle (crepes) with a delicate cheese sauce can be elevated by the strong tannic structure of a Nebbiolo. This is also true for Pinto Noir.

Pasta Primavera with Roero Arneis

The crisp acidity and floral aromas of Roero Arneis complement light pasta dishes with fresh vegetables, pasta sautéed with asparagus and lemon or vinaigrette, enhancing the dish’s freshness.

When pairing, consider the cooking methods and seasoning of your plant-based dishes to find the most harmonious wine match.

Piemonte wines offer amazing versatility that can elevate a variety of plant-based meals.

We will be exploring further food and wine pairings in future posts so stay tuned!