In general, how do stronger flavors in food affect the taste of sake?

Stronger flavors in food can indeed overpower the sake's flavor. When a dish has robust and intense flavors, it can dominate the more delicate and subtle taste profiles of sake. Sake, particularly varieties that are lighter and more refined, may struggle to stand out in the presence of bold or spicy foods. This can result in a tasting experience where the nuances of the sake are lost, making it taste subdued or even flat compared to the intensity of the food.

Understanding the balance between food and beverage is crucial for pairing. Lighter, more flavorful sakes are often better matched with similarly buoyant dishes, while stronger flavored foods may require more full-bodied or richer sakes to maintain a harmonious balance.