Image by Eiliv Aceron

Buffalo wing

Ah, the fiery, succulent treat known as the Buffalo wing - it's no secret that this dish is one of America's great culinary inventions. The spicy, tangy flavor of the sauce and the juicy texture of the skin when cooked to perfection make it an irresistible crowd-favorite. As a matter of fact, these wings were first created in 1964 in Buffalo, New York, and have since become a beloved worldwide cuisine.

Buffalo wing


The wonderful thing about the Buffalo wing is its versatility. Whether you prefer the classic fried version with its crisp outer shell or like to go a little more daring with the baked variety, there are plenty of delicious variations to pick from. The sauce, of course, is the true game-changer here and can range from mild to blazingly hot. Kicking it up a notch with some garlic powder or ranch dressing is also an option.

For any wing aficionado, however, the secret to the perfect Buffalo wing lies in the side sauces. Mild blue cheese dressing is the old standby but honey mustard, chipotle, and mango habanero are all excellent accompaniments for the rich flavor of these bad boys. A good beer is, of course, the perfect partner for this insouciant treat.

At the end of the day, the Buffalo wing is a unique concoction that has brought together multiple cultures and tastes. This melding of flavors and textures will surely continue to be a go-to choice for those looking for a flavorful and crave-worthy snack. Bon apetit!

The origin of Buffalo wing

For many meat-lovers, the Buffalo wing is a much-loved staple of their diet. But few of them know its peculiar story.

The Buffalo wing was first mentioned in a 1964 article published in the Anchor-Hocking Gazette – and yet, it had already been around for quite some time. The dish itself has been credited to several people, each claiming to be the ‘inventor’ of the famous dish. The most common story, however, includes Teresa Bellissimo, a restaurant owner in Buffalo, New York.

In 1964, the Bellissimo family owned a small Italian-American eatery named the Anchor Bar. One fateful night, Bellissimo’s son, Dominic, arrived at the restaurant with some of his friends after a long night out. Desperate for a snack late at night, Bellissimo grabbed some chicken wings and deep-fried them. She seasoned the wings with butter and hot sauce, then served them with a side of celery and blue cheese dressing. The wings were a hit, and the Buffalo wing was born.

Since that momentous evening, the Buffalo wing has become an iconic dish in its own right. Now, they’re a mainstay at bars, restaurants, and game-day parties around the world. From its humble beginnings in the Anchor Bar, the Buffalo Wing has become a universal treat – one that countless people enjoy every day.

Not only has the Buffalo wing become an iconic dish, but it has also given rise to a slew of new variations; now, you can find anything from garlic-parmesan to spicy mango-habanero creation. So while there may be debate over who originated the original Buffalo wing, today’s varieties prove that this classic dish is anything but limited.

FAQs about Buffalo wing

What are buffalo wings made out of?

Buffalo wings are traditionally made from chicken wings that have been deep fried and coated in a spicy sauce made from butter and hot sauce.


What is buffalo sauce made of?

Buffalo sauce is usually made with a combination of hot sauce (most commonly cayenne pepper or Frank's RedHot), butter, and vinegar. Other ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onion may also be added for flavor.


What is the difference between a chicken wing and a buffalo wing?

A chicken wing is a section of chicken that includes the drumette and wingette, while a buffalo wing is a style of chicken wing that has been coated in a special spicy sauce. Buffalo wings are traditionally served with blue cheese or ranch dressing as a dipping sauce.


Why do they call it buffalo wings?

The dish is said to have originated in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. The owner, Teressa Bellissimo, is said to have created the dish as a snack for her son and his friends. The wings were deep-fried, coated with a spicy sauce consisting of hot sauce and melted butter, and served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.


Types of Buffalo wing

When it comes to the beloved Buffalo wing, there's simply no denying the sheer versatility of this delicacy. Whether you're dreaming of a classic take on the dish or looking for something more out of the ordinary, a well-crafted Buffalo wing can offer something for everyone.

For those seeking a traditional flavor experience, the classic Buffalo wing is the go-to dish. This style typically involves the deep-frying of the wings in hot oil, then coating them in a spicy sauce made with cayenne pepper, butter, vinegar, and other ingredients. The sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor, while combining with the crispy, fried exterior creates an unmistakable textural sensation.

For a slightly less messy indulgence, the boneless Buffalo wing has become increasingly popular. Instead of the traditional wings, boneless wings are made with chicken cutlet that is prepared with a similar recipe and made into “wing” shape. This variation is perfect for those who don't want to deal with the mess of eating a real wing.

If you’re looking for something a bit more cutting-edge, try the Buffalo kabob. This dish typically features grilled chicken, bell peppers, and onions all marinated in the same fiery sauce that gives the classic Buffalo wing its character. While the kabob may not have the crunch of a traditional wing, its smoky, succulent flavor makes it a satisfying rendition of the iconic dish.

Moving away from the Buffalo wing in name as well as form, there are also versions that feature pork instead of chicken. These pork wings, also known as "Buffalo pig wings," bring a unique smoky depth to the dish. Whether roasted, baked, or grilled, these spicy offerings add complexity and nuance to the Buffalo wing genre.

Whether you’re searching for a traditional experience or something with a bit more daring, there's a Buffalo wing to suit any palate. From the classic to the unconventional, the infinite possibilities of this delicious dish make it a beloved fixture of American cuisine.