Buffalo Wings
15M
1H
- Makes 4 servings
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drums and flats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup Frank's RedHot sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Celery sticks, for serving
- Blue cheese dressing, for serving
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss the chicken wings in the flour mixture until well coated.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the wings in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 10-12 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the Frank's RedHot sauce and cook until heated through.
- Toss the fried wings in the hot sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve the wings hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing on the side.
Buffalo Wings: A Spicy American Classic
History
Buffalo Wings, an iconic dish in American cuisine, trace their origins back to the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. The story goes that in 1964, Teressa Bellissimo, the co-owner of the bar, created the first batch of wings as a late-night snack for her son and his friends. Using leftover wings, she deep-fried them and tossed them in a spicy sauce made from hot sauce and butter. This impromptu creation quickly gained popularity, and soon, Buffalo Wings became a staple in bars and restaurants across the United States. Today, they are celebrated not just in America but around the world, often enjoyed during sports events and social gatherings.
Taste Profile
The allure of Buffalo Wings lies in their distinctive taste profile. These wings are known for their crispy exterior, achieved through deep-frying, which contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy meat inside. The signature sauce, a blend of hot sauce and butter, adds a spicy yet slightly tangy flavor that coats each wing perfectly. The heat level can vary, but traditional Buffalo Wings offer a balanced kick that’s not overwhelmingly hot. Often served with blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery sticks, these elements complement the wings by providing a cooling contrast to the spicy sauce. This combination of textures and flavors makes Buffalo Wings a beloved choice for those seeking a satisfying and flavorful appetizer.
Cultural Significance
Within American cuisine, Buffalo Wings hold a special place due to their cultural significance. They are emblematic of casual dining and social gatherings, particularly during sports events like football games. The Super Bowl, for instance, is synonymous with Buffalo Wings, with millions of Americans indulging in this spicy treat while watching the game. Beyond sports, Buffalo Wings have become a symbol of American comfort food, often featured on menus in bars, restaurants, and even at home gatherings. Their versatility and widespread appeal have cemented their status as a quintessential part of American culinary culture, representing the country’s love for bold flavors and hearty, shareable dishes.
