Mellow, nutty, malty and smooth, this beer isn’t “angry” at all. On the contrary, the velvety brew does a great job of pacifying a sam-phrik somtam.

Verdict: If you want something subtle that will not dominate the food, it’s a great match.

 

Its nutty scent gives way to a taste of tropical fruit which seems to work well with somtam at first, but the heat and sweetness make this one taste too bitter and hoppy.

Verdict: A great beer, but better savored on its own.

 

The dark caramel-like sweetness of this one works really well at taming the heat of somtam. However, when paired with bolder ingredients like salted egg, the taste becomes awkward and quite unpalatable. 

Verdict: A disaster with somtam kai-khem, but not bad with other variants.

A mild beer. Some note the citrusy taste of pomelo or blood orange, but for others it’s too bland and doesn’t stand up to the sharp, spicy and sweet taste of the food. 

Verdict: Very refreshing, but better to drink alone on a sunny day.

 

The most hoppy beer in this roundup, and that’s not what somtam needs. The overpowering, dry flavor is just too much.

Verdict: If you plan to drink it with somtam, go for the spiciest you can take.

 

Its light body and bacon-like, nutty, caramelized flavor complement the heat of somtam really well. Even with the ’tam kai-khem, the brew maintained a harmonious balance. Available at retail supermarkets like Tops and Foodland.

Verdict: Very neutralizing for spicy flavors. A perfect match.

 

The nuttier beers we try match well with somtam, and this local, under-the-table homebrew is no exception. It fends off the spiciness while the pungent, malty taste perfectly complements the salad’s flavor. Available at Mad Moa 22-25, Chakkaphatdi Phong Rd., 085-155-2601.

Verdict: Bold flavored and high in alcohol, this beer is ideal for a somtam party.