Joe Tucker, president of RateBeer.com, handpicks the bottles you need to complete your holiday feast.
Asahi Kuronama Black
Crack this open for a rich, roasted accompaniment to the bold flavors of chef Peter Serpico’s Rib Eye with Butternut Squash.
Baird Rising Sun Pale Ale
Infused with a citrus aroma, this brew will balance the tartness of Serpico’s pickles, says Tucker.
Kiuchi Hitachino Nest Beers
Tucker vouches for the Belgian White Ale, but load up the fridge with Hitachino’s crisp, clean Real Ginger Ale and Japanese Classic Ale (above), too.
San Miguel Premium Lager
This Filipino beer will complement your meal. “It’s easy to drink and a good palate cleanser,” says Tucker.
Build a Better Feast
Jumpstart your holidays this year with our Asian-inspired overhaul of the traditional spread
Photos by Gail Albert Halaban
Add These Asian Vegetables, Boost Your Health
Less than 10 percent of supermarket shoppers consume Asian vegetables regularly, according to researchers at Southern Illinois University Carbondale—which means you may be missing out on the protective powers of Eastern food. Make these swaps and reap the rewards.
Try: Graffiti eggplant
Instead of: Roasted potatoes
The Benefit: This fiber-packed vegetable may help fight high blood pressure, according to a recent study. Cube it and coat it with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then sauté over medium-high heat for 10 minutes, or until tender.
Try: Bok choy
Instead of: Creamed spinach
The Benefit: Bok choy contains indole-3-carbinol—scientist-speak for a compound that may help fight colon and prostate cancers. To cook it, separate the leaves from the head, wash the leaves, and sauté them for 5 minutes in a skillet with olive oil and one clove of garlic, sliced.
Try: Fava beans
Instead of: Canned peas
The Benefit: One cup contains almost eight times more protein than the same amount of canned peas.
Try: Daikon sprouts (Kaiware)
Instead of: Croutons
The Benefit: These sprouts contain agents that may fight colon cancer, according to Italian researchers. Add them to any salad.
