Cookin’ on the Coast 2024 – Episode 12:
Vancouver Island Brewing Islander Lager with Mexican Tortilla Soup
In Episode #12 of Cookin’ on the Coast, Sheryl Tilley from Liquor Plus returns to showcase Vancouver Island Brewing’s Islander Lager. This refreshing and approachable brew reflects the laid-back charm of the Island, inspired by over 40 years of coastal brewing tradition. Winner of the 2023 BC Beer Awards’ North American Light Lager category, it offers a crisp, clean profile with low bitterness and a subtle floral finish. Crafted from premium pilsner malt and Island-grown hops, Islander Lager embodies simplicity and quality, with just four essential ingredients: barley, hops, yeast, and water. At 5.0% ABV, it’s a true taste of Vancouver Island—familiar, unique, and free of additives or preservatives.
Locally brewed since 1984, Vancouver Island Brewing has been at the forefront of British Columbia’s craft beer industry, helping to pioneer and shape it into what it is today. With a commitment to innovation and authenticity, they craft a wide selection of high-quality beers designed to accompany every adventure. Each brew reflects their dedication to fun, shareable experiences without ever compromising on quality.
Chef Heidi’s Mexican Tortilla Soup is tangy, zesty, and mildly spicy, making it the perfect match for the Islander Lager. With its crisp, dry, and refreshing profile, the lager complements the bold flavors of the soup beautifully, creating a balanced and satisfying pairing.
Head to a Liquor Plus liquor store near you to pickup the Vancouver Island Brewing Islander Lager.
This quick and flavorful Mexican tortilla soup is perfect for busy weeknights, using convenient ingredients to deliver a slightly spicy, satisfying meal. A smoky chipotle-spiked salsa forms the base, simmered with chicken broth to create a rich, tangy soup. Rotisserie chicken and crunchy tortilla chips add texture, while fresh avocado, crumbled feta, and chopped cilantro bring vibrant toppings. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of Mexico at home.
In this episode, Chef Heidi and Sheryl Tilley explore why the Islander Lager pairs so perfectly with Mexican Tortilla Soup. The lager’s crisp, clean profile and subtle floral notes balance the soup’s bold flavours, while its refreshing finish cuts through the richness of the broth and toppings without overpowering them. The light bitterness enhances the smoky chipotle and tangy salsa, creating a harmonious combination that elevates both the soup and the beer.
Grab the recipes below and all the ingredients at your local Country Grocer:
Liquor Plus Sponsors Cookin’ on the Coast
Each week, Liquor Plus sponsors the Pairings segment of Cookin’ on the Coast on CHEK. The show features unique food and drink pairings offered by BC suppliers, with recipes created by Chef Heidi Fink and sponsored by Country Grocer. All of the beverages featured on the program can be found in Liquor Plus stores across Vancouver Island.
