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Balancing Craft Beer and Weight Loss: How I Enjoy IPAs and Still Hit My Goals
If you’re like me, you love a good craft beer—especially a bold, hoppy IPA. There’s something about that crisp bitterness and aromatic punch that makes every sip an experience. But here’s the reality: I’ve been on a serious health journey, and over time, I’ve lost more than 60 pounds. That didn’t happen overnight, and it definitely didn’t happen without a few tough choices.
The Plateau Problem
When you’re dieting, plateaus are inevitable. You’re cruising along, the pounds are melting away, and then—bam—you hit a wall. Or worse, you step on the scale and see a pound gained. It’s frustrating, and it can mess with your motivation.
For me, that’s when I make a smart pivot. Instead of giving up beer altogether (because let’s be honest, that’s not happening), I switch gears.
Enter Michelob Ultra
Michelob Ultra has been my go-to when I need to keep calories in check without sacrificing the enjoyment of a cold beer. At just 95 calories and 2.6 carbs per serving, it’s a lifesaver for beer lovers who are watching their waistline. It’s light, crisp, and refreshing—perfect for those moments when I need to stay disciplined but still want to enjoy a brew.
Why This Works
- Mindful Choices: I don’t deprive myself; I adjust. Craft beers are still part of my life, but I save them for when I’m in a good groove.
- Michelob Ultra as a Safety Net: It’s my fallback when the scale starts creeping up or stalls out.
- Balance Over Perfection: Dieting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making sustainable choices.
Final Thoughts
Loving beer and losing weight don’t have to be mutually exclusive. It’s all about balance. Enjoy those IPAs when you can, and when you need to tighten things up, reach for something lighter like Michelob Ultra. Your taste buds—and your goals—will thank you.
Jai Alai IPA: A Bold Tribute to Tampa’s Heritage
When it comes to craft beer, few names resonate as strongly as Cigar City Brewing, and their flagship Jai Alai India Pale Ale is a true icon in the IPA world. Named after the fast-paced Basque ball game once popular in Florida, Jai Alai is more than just a beer—it’s a celebration of Tampa’s rich cultural history and the artistry of brewing.
The Story Behind Cigar City Brewing
Founded in 2009 in Tampa, Florida, Cigar City Brewing was born from a passion for creating beers that reflect the culture and flavors of the Sunshine State. The brewery’s name pays homage to Tampa’s historic cigar industry, and its beers often incorporate local ingredients and themes. Jai Alai quickly became their flagship IPA, helping put Florida on the craft beer map.
Today, Cigar City Brewing is recognized nationwide for its innovation and quality, with Jai Alai leading the charge as one of the most beloved IPAs in the U.S.
Appearance & Aroma
Pouring a deep amber-orange with a sturdy off-white head, Jai Alai immediately catches the eye. The aroma is a vibrant bouquet of citrus zest, tropical fruits, and a hint of caramel malt, promising complexity before the first sip.
Flavor Profile
This IPA delivers a bold hop-forward experience balanced by a subtle malt backbone. Expect flavors of orange peel, grapefruit, and tangerine, layered with notes of toffee and bread crust. At 7.5% ABV, it’s assertive yet approachable, making it a favorite for seasoned IPA lovers and adventurous newcomers alike.
Perfect Food Pairings
Jai Alai’s bright bitterness and citrus-forward hops make it an excellent companion for bold, flavorful dishes. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Spicy Shrimp Tacos
- Grilled Steak with Chimichurri
- Sharp Cheddar or Blue Cheese
- Citrus-Glazed Chicken Wings
Home Cooking Recipes to Pair with Jai Alai IPA
Here are three easy recipes you can make at home that pair beautifully with Jai Alai:
1. Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Corn tortillas
- ½ cup sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, and paprika.
- Sauté in a skillet until pink and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).
- Mix sour cream and lime juice for crema.
- Assemble tacos with shrimp, crema, and cilantro.
Pairing Tip: The citrusy hops in Jai Alai complement the lime crema and spice perfectly.
2. Citrus-Glazed Chicken Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- ½ cup orange marmalade
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Bake wings at 400°F for 40 minutes until crispy.
- Mix marmalade, soy sauce, and sriracha in a saucepan; simmer until thickened.
- Toss wings in glaze and serve hot.
Pairing Tip: The sweet and spicy glaze mirrors Jai Alai’s fruity hop character.
3. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak
- Salt and pepper
- ½ cup fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
Instructions:
- Season steak with salt and pepper; grill to desired doneness.
- Blend parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar for chimichurri.
- Slice steak and drizzle with sauce.
Pairing Tip: The herbal chimichurri balances the IPA’s bitterness beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Jai Alai isn’t just another IPA—it’s a benchmark for what a well-crafted, hop-forward beer should be. Pair it with these dishes for an unforgettable experience that brings out the best in both food and beer.
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Hoppy Little Thing IPA: Sierra Nevada’s Citrus-Forward Hop Adventure
If you’re craving a beer that’s bold yet approachable, Sierra Nevada’s Hoppy Little Thing IPA is the perfect pick. This brew bursts with citrus zest and tropical hop character, making it a standout in the craft beer scene.
Why It’s a Must-Try
- Style: IPA
- ABV: 6.6%
- Flavor Profile: Bright citrus, grapefruit, and subtle tropical notes with a crisp finish.
- Bitterness: Balanced—enough to satisfy hop lovers without overwhelming the palate.
The Pour
Golden, effervescent, and aromatic. Each sip delivers a refreshing hop punch with a clean, smooth bitterness that pairs beautifully with spicy dishes or a laid-back evening.
Perni Haze: The Juicy IPA You’ll Want on Repeat
f you’re a fan of hazy IPAs, Perni Haze from Wicked Weed Brewing deserves a spot on your radar. This Asheville-born brew is a celebration of juicy hops and smooth drinkability, crafted with precision and a touch of Southern charm.
The Basics
- Style: Hazy IPA
- ABV: 6.9%
- IBU: ~39
- Hops: Citra & Simcoe
- Grain Bill: Malted wheat & flaked oats for a silky body
From the first pour, Perni Haze greets you with a hazy golden hue and a fluffy white head that lingers. The aroma bursts with ripe tropical fruit, stone fruit, and tangerine, thanks to generous hopping in both the brewhouse and cellar. It’s a beer designed to be enjoyed fresh and often—Wicked Weed calls it a “hazy hop delivery vehicle,” and that’s no exaggeration. [wickedweed…rewing.com], [beerboard.menu]
Flavor Profile
On the palate, Perni Haze strikes a beautiful balance:
- Front: Juicy citrus and mango notes with hints of bubblegum sweetness.
- Mid: A semi-sweet malt backbone that keeps things smooth without overshadowing the hops.
- Finish: Light bitterness and a touch of pine, leaving a creamy, refreshing aftertaste. [beeradvocate.com], [drinkhacker.com]
The mouthfeel is light-to-medium bodied, slightly creamy, and incredibly crushable—perfect for pairing with spicy dishes, Thai curries, or even a backyard burger. [beerboard.menu]
Why It Stands Out
What makes Perni Haze special is its effortless drinkability. While some hazy IPAs lean heavy on sweetness or bitterness, this one threads the needle with finesse. It’s juicy without being cloying, and its subtle bitterness keeps you coming back for another sip. Fans on BeerAdvocate rate it an impressive 92/100, and Untappd users give it a solid 3.86/5, cementing its reputation as a standout in the hazy IPA category. [beeradvocate.com], [untappd.com]
Final Thoughts: If you’re looking for a hazy IPA that delivers tropical fruit vibes, a silky body, and a finish that won’t wear out your palate, Perni Haze is your beer. Grab a fresh can, pour it into a proper glass, and let the haze take you away.
I Love India Pale Ales
What Does IPA Mean? And Why Tropical IPA Tops My List
If you’ve ever browsed the beer aisle or visited a craft brewery, you’ve probably seen the term IPA everywhere. But what does it actually mean?
IPA stands for India Pale Ale, a style of beer that originated in England during the 18th century. Brewers added extra hops to their pale ales so the beer could survive long voyages to India without spoiling. Those hops didn’t just preserve the beer—they gave it a bold, bitter flavor that became iconic.
Fast forward to today, and IPAs have evolved into one of the most popular styles in craft brewing. They’re known for their hoppy aroma, citrusy notes, and a wide range of variations—from West Coast IPAs with piney bitterness to hazy New England IPAs bursting with juicy fruit flavors.
My Favorite IPA: Tropical IPA
While I enjoy exploring different IPA styles, my personal favorite is the Tropical IPA. Why? Because it’s like a vacation in a glass. Tropical IPAs layer the classic hop bitterness with bright, fruity flavors—think mango, pineapple, and passionfruit. The result is a refreshing, vibrant beer that pairs perfectly with warm weather or just when you want to escape to a sunny state of mind.
Perfect Food Pairings for Tropical IPA
One of the best things about beer is how well it pairs with food. Tropical IPAs, with their fruity notes and crisp bitterness, complement a variety of dishes:
- Spicy Foods: Think Thai curry or jerk chicken. The hops balance the heat, while tropical fruit flavors enhance the spices.
- Grilled Seafood: Shrimp skewers or grilled salmon work beautifully with the fruity undertones.
- Tacos: Especially fish tacos with mango salsa—this pairing is a flavor explosion.
- Cheese: Try a tangy goat cheese or a creamy brie to contrast the IPA’s bitterness.
Brewery Recommendations for Tropical IPA Lovers
If you’re ready to dive into the world of Tropical IPAs, here are a few breweries that consistently deliver:
- Dogfish Head Brewery – Known for creative IPAs with tropical twists.
- Lagunitas Brewing Company – Their seasonal IPAs often feature fruity notes.
- Sierra Nevada – Check out their “Tropical Torpedo” for a classic tropical IPA experience.
- Local Craft Breweries – Don’t overlook your local scene! Many small breweries experiment with tropical hops and fruit additions.
Final Thoughts
IPAs have come a long way from their origins, and Tropical IPAs are proof that innovation in brewing is alive and well. If you haven’t tried one yet, make it your next beer adventure. Pair it with a spicy dish, kick back, and let those tropical flavors transport you.
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What is your favorite place to go in your city?
My favorite place is to my grandson’s school gym to watch him play basketball.
🥩 Beef Meets Brew: The Perfect Pint for Your Plate
How I got to try a great brew with A
I ran out of beer! I’m cooking steaks tonight, so I asked Microsoft CoPilot what beer it would suggest. Fantastic, it suggested American Brown Ale. Enjoy.
When it comes to pairing beer with beef, you want a brew that can stand up to the richness, amplify the flavor, and maybe even surprise you. Whether you’re grilling ribeyes, slow-cooking brisket, or crafting a comfort-food casserole, the right beer can elevate the whole experience.
🍺 The Hero: American Brown Ale
Bold but balanced, the American Brown Ale is a beef lover’s best friend. It brings roasted malt, hints of chocolate and caramel, and just enough hop bitterness to cut through the fat without overpowering the meat.
Why It Works:
- Roasty depth complements seared crusts and smoky marinades.
- Caramel notes echo the Maillard magic of browned beef.
- Medium body keeps things smooth—not too heavy, not too light.
🔥 Pairing Ideas:
- Grilled steak with garlic butter: The ale’s nutty sweetness plays beautifully with char and richness.
- Beef chili or stew: Its malt backbone stands up to spice and slow-cooked depth.
- Cheeseburger with sharp cheddar: A classic combo that lets the beer’s toasty character shine.
🍽️ Bill’s Bonus Tip:
If you’re experimenting in the kitchen, try reducing a brown ale into a glaze or adding a splash to your beef braise. It’ll add complexity and a subtle bitterness that balances richness like a pro.
🎧 Soundtrack Pairing:
Cue up some outlaw country—think Waylon or Sturgill—while the grill sizzles and the ale chills. It’s the kind of pairing that makes you feel like you’ve got your own honky-tonk steakhouse.
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Timet
How do you manage screen time for yourself?
I got this timer from Amazon. Scott Schleper, who introduced me to the Antinet Zettelkasten, recommended it. I set 60 minutes. Sometimes I listen to the alarm and stop, other times not so much.
☀️ Sunlit by Pinter: A Brew That Glows
There’s something about a golden afternoon that makes you want to slow down, kick back, and savor the moment. That’s exactly what Pinter’s “Sunlit” brew delivers—a crisp, easygoing beer that tastes like sunshine in a glass.
🌾 The Flavor Profile
Sunlit is a light, sessionable beer with gentle malt sweetness and a whisper of citrus. It’s brewed for balance—not too hoppy, not too heavy. Think golden straw color, soft carbonation, and a finish that’s clean but lingering. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fresh corn, or just a porch swing and a good playlist.
🍺 Brewed at Home, Enjoyed Anywhere
What makes Sunlit special isn’t just the taste—it’s the experience. Pinter’s home brewing system lets you craft this beer yourself, dialing in freshness and flavor with every pour. It’s a brew that rewards patience and invites experimentation. Whether you’re a seasoned home brewer or just dipping your toes into DIY beer, Sunlit is a forgiving and flavorful place to start.
🎶 Vibes and Pairings
At Bill’s Beer, we’re all about matching brews with moods. Sunlit is your golden hour companion—perfect for acoustic playlists, backyard hangs, and stories that stretch past sunset. Try it with:
- Willie Nelson’s “Blue Skies”
- A grilled peach and burrata salad
- That one friend who always brings the good vibes
🛠️ Tips from the Brew Bench
- Chill your Pinter keg for at least 24 hours before tapping—Sunlit shines brightest when it’s cold and crisp.
- Don’t rush the conditioning. Give it the full time and you’ll be rewarded with clarity and flavor.
- Want a twist? Add a touch of orange zest during brewing for a citrusy lift.
Sunlit isn’t just a beer—it’s a mood. And at Bill’s Beer, we’re here for every golden drop. Stay tuned for more brew reviews, pairing ideas, and DIY tips to keep your beer game strong.
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