Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce elevates ordinary chicken wings to a spicy, tangy delight. This versatile condiment captures the essence of classic Buffalo wings, offering a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Cooking with Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce is simple: toss cooked wings in the sauce or use it as a marinade before baking or frying.
Home cooks can create restaurant-quality Buffalo wings by combining Frank’s RedHot sauce with melted butter. This mixture coats crispy chicken wings, delivering that signature Buffalo taste. The sauce also works well in other dishes, adding a zesty kick to sandwiches, dips, and even pizza.
Experimenting with Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce allows for endless culinary possibilities. From Buffalo chicken dip to spicy pasta dishes, this hot sauce brings bold flavor to a variety of recipes. Its versatility makes it a staple for those who enjoy a touch of heat in their meals.
The History of Buffalo Wings
Buffalo wings have become an iconic American dish, with Frank’s RedHot sauce playing a crucial role in their popularity. The spicy, tangy flavor of these wings has captivated taste buds across the nation for decades.
Origins and Evolution
Buffalo wings were first created in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. Teressa Bellissimo, the bar’s co-owner, invented the dish late one night to feed her son and his friends. She deep-fried chicken wings and tossed them in a spicy sauce made with cayenne pepper sauce and butter.
The wings quickly gained popularity in Buffalo and spread throughout New York state. By the 1970s, they had become a regional favorite.
In the 1980s, buffalo wings began to appear on menus across the United States. Sports bars and casual dining restaurants embraced the dish, helping it achieve nationwide fame.
Frank’s RedHot: A Culinary Staple
Frank’s RedHot sauce, created in 1920, became the key ingredient in the original buffalo wing sauce. The sauce’s blend of aged cayenne peppers, vinegar, and spices provided the perfect balance of heat and flavor.
As buffalo wings grew in popularity, Frank’s RedHot became synonymous with the dish. Many recipes, including the original Anchor Bar recipe, specifically called for Frank’s RedHot sauce.
In 1977, Frank’s RedHot introduced a ready-made Buffalo Wings Sauce, combining their original cayenne pepper sauce with natural butter flavor. This product made it even easier for home cooks and restaurants to recreate the authentic buffalo wing taste.
Today, Frank’s RedHot remains a leading brand in the hot sauce market, with buffalo wings continuing to be a beloved dish across America.
Selecting Your Chicken
Choosing the right chicken is crucial for creating delicious buffalo wings. The cut, quality, and freshness of your chicken will significantly impact the final result.
Wing Types and Cuts
Chicken wings consist of three parts: the drumette, the flat, and the tip. Drumettes resemble small drumsticks and contain more meat. Flats, also called wingettes, have two bones and tender meat between them. Tips are often discarded or used for stock.
For buffalo wings, use a mix of drumettes and flats. This combination provides variety in texture and ensures even cooking. Some prefer all drumettes for their meatiness, while others favor flats for their crispy skin-to-meat ratio.
Pre-cut wings save time, but whole wings allow more control over the final product. If using whole wings, separate them at the joints using kitchen shears or a sharp knife.
Freshness and Quality
Select fresh, high-quality chicken wings for the best flavor and texture. Look for wings with pink, moist flesh and no signs of discoloration or dryness. Avoid wings with a strong odor or slimy texture.
Free-range or organic chicken often yields better taste and texture. These birds typically have a more natural diet and living conditions, resulting in higher-quality meat.
Check the expiration date when buying packaged wings. If possible, purchase from a trusted butcher who can provide information on the chicken’s source and processing.
For optimal results, use fresh wings rather than frozen. If using frozen wings, thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
Mastering the Sauce
Frank’s RedHot buffalo wings sauce is the key to creating authentic, flavorful wings. The perfect balance of heat and tanginess elevates any wing dish to new heights.
Classic Buffalo Wings Sauce
Frank’s RedHot sauce forms the base of classic buffalo wings sauce. Mix equal parts Frank’s RedHot and melted butter for the traditional recipe. For added depth, incorporate a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Whisk the ingredients together in a saucepan over low heat until fully combined. This ensures a smooth, emulsified sauce that coats wings evenly.
For extra richness, use unsalted butter. This allows better control over the sauce’s saltiness.
Adjusting the Heat
Customize the heat level of your buffalo wings sauce to suit different preferences. For a milder sauce, increase the ratio of butter to hot sauce.
To amp up the spiciness, add ground cayenne pepper in small increments. Start with 1/4 teaspoon per cup of sauce and adjust to taste.
For a unique twist, experiment with different hot sauces alongside Frank’s RedHot. Habanero or ghost pepper sauces can create an extra fiery blend.
Remember, the sauce will mellow slightly when coating the wings. Always taste test before applying to ensure the desired heat level.
Preparing Buffalo Wings
Preparing delicious buffalo wings involves two key steps: marinating for optimal flavor and choosing between frying or baking for the perfect texture. Each method has its advantages for creating crispy, saucy wings.
Marinating for Flavor
Marinating chicken wings enhances their taste and tenderness. Mix Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce with melted butter for a classic buffalo marinade. Use a 2:1 ratio of sauce to butter for a balanced flavor.
Place wings in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for 2-4 hours, or overnight for more intense flavor.
For extra zing, add minced garlic or a splash of vinegar to the marinade. Turn the bag occasionally to ensure even coating.
Frying vs. Baking
Frying produces crispy wings quickly but requires more oil and attention. Heat vegetable oil to 375°F in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry wings in batches for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Baking is a healthier option that still yields crispy results. Preheat oven to 450°F. Place wings on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For extra crispiness when baking, pat wings dry and dust with baking powder before cooking. This helps the skin crisp up in the oven.
After cooking, toss wings in additional Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce for that classic buffalo flavor.
Serving and Presentation
Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce elevates any wing dish. Proper serving and presentation enhance the overall experience, making your wings irresistible.
Plating Techniques
Arrange wings in a circular pattern on a large, round platter for an eye-catching display. Alternatively, stack them in a tall, narrow bowl for a more compact presentation. Use a white or light-colored dish to make the vibrant sauce stand out.
For individual servings, place 6-8 wings on small plates or in mini fryer baskets lined with parchment paper. This creates a fun, casual atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Consider temperature when plating. Serve wings hot to maintain their crispy texture and ensure the sauce remains clingy and flavorful.
Accompaniments
Pair Buffalo wings with classic sides to balance the heat and add variety. Offer celery sticks and carrot sticks for a cool, crunchy contrast.
Provide blue cheese dip or ranch dressing in small ramekins for dipping. These creamy options help tame the spiciness and add richness to each bite.
Include extra napkins or wet wipes, as Buffalo wings are notoriously messy to eat. This thoughtful touch will be appreciated by guests.
For a more substantial spread, add crispy french fries, onion rings, or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
Garnishing
Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the wings for a pop of color and fresh flavor. This subtle garnish enhances the visual appeal without overpowering the dish.
Drizzle extra Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce across the platter for added flavor and visual interest. Use a squeeze bottle for precise control and an artistic touch.
For a gourmet twist, crumble blue cheese over the wings just before serving. This adds texture and complements the sauce’s tangy heat.
Consider placing lemon wedges around the platter. A squeeze of citrus can brighten the flavors and cut through the richness of the sauce.
Variations and Recipes
Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce offers versatility beyond traditional wings. It can elevate various dishes and inspire creative twists on classic recipes.
Creative Twists on Classic Recipes
Buffalo chicken wings remain a beloved appetizer, but innovative cooks have found new ways to use the sauce. Buffalo chicken dip is a popular variation, combining shredded chicken, cream cheese, and Frank’s RedHot sauce. Baked until hot and bubbly, it’s perfect for parties.
Another twist is buffalo chicken sliders. Shredded chicken tossed in the sauce is piled onto mini buns with blue cheese or ranch dressing. Buffalo chicken pizza is another hit, featuring a tangy sauce base topped with chicken, cheese, and veggies.
Buffalo Chicken Inspired Dishes
The zesty flavor of Frank’s RedHot sauce works well in many dishes. Buffalo chicken mac and cheese combines two comfort foods, with the sauce adding a spicy kick to the creamy pasta. Buffalo chicken wraps offer a portable option, filled with crispy chicken, lettuce, and sauce.
For a healthier twist, try buffalo cauliflower bites. These vegetarian-friendly morsels are baked until crispy and tossed in the sauce. Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers provide a low-carb option, filling bell peppers with a spicy chicken mixture.
Hosting a Game Day Feast
Game day gatherings revolve around two key elements: exciting sports action and delicious food. The right menu can elevate the experience for all your guests.
Buffalo Wings as the Showstopper
Buffalo wings take center stage at any game day feast. Prepare a large batch of wings coated in Frank’s RedHot buffalo sauce for that classic tangy, spicy flavor. Arrange them on a platter with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing on the side.
Consider offering different heat levels to cater to all tastes. Provide extra napkins – buffalo wings can get messy! For a twist, try buffalo chicken dip as an easy-to-share alternative.
Curating the Perfect Game Day Menu
Complement your buffalo wings with a variety of appetizers. Nachos, sliders, and pizza bites are crowd-pleasing options. Include some healthier choices like veggie platters or fruit skewers.
Don’t forget drinks! Stock up on beer, soda, and water. Set up a self-serve area to keep guests satisfied throughout the game. Consider themed decorations in team colors to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Plan for easy cleanup by using disposable plates and utensils. Have extra seating available for comfort during those long games.