What Is Buffalo Sauce?

What started as a game-day treat in Buffalo, New York, has now become a global sensation. Buffalo sauce, with its perfect balance of heat, tang, and creaminess, has found its place not only as an accompaniment to the iconic Buffalo wings, but on burgers, fries, and even veggies. Its bold, tangy flavour has transformed from a niche condiment into a versatile addition to countless dishes, making it a staple for anyone who loves a little heat with their meal. So, whether you're a spice enthusiast or just looking to add some extra flavour, it’s worthwhile exploring the world of Buffalo sauce.

Origins and History of Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce was born in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. The sauce is said to have been invented by Teressa Bellissimo at the Anchor Bar, a family-owned restaurant. According to popular legend, Bellissimo created the sauce as a late-night snack for her son and his friends. She tossed leftover chicken wings in a mixture of hot sauce and butter, and the rest, as they say, is history. 

Buffalo sauce, and Buffalo wings, became synonymous with American sports culture and bar food, especially in the 1980s and 1990s. The popularity of Buffalo wings spread across the United States, and today, Buffalo sauce is enjoyed in different variations, from mild to extra spicy, with many regional variations. 

What Does Buffalo Sauce Taste Like?

The flavour profile of Buffalo sauce is a delicate balance of tanginess, spice, and richness. The base of hot sauce gives it a sharp, tangy kick, while the butter adds a smooth and creamy texture that tempers the heat. 

Buffalo sauce has a slightly acidic edge, courtesy of the vinegar typically included in many hot sauce recipes. This acidity, combined with the buttery richness, helps to balance out the heat, making the sauce versatile enough for a range of tastes. The heat can vary depending on the type of hot sauce used in the recipe, ranging from mild to extremely hot, meaning that there’s a variation of Buffalo sauce for every palate.

Is Buffalo Sauce Spicy?

If you’re wondering ‘Is Buffalo sauce spicy?’; it is indeed spicy, but the level of heat can vary. The spiciness is determined by the type and amount of hot sauce used, with traditional recipes calling for a base of cayenne pepper sauce. 

Many people are surprised to learn that Buffalo sauce doesn't have to be overwhelmingly hot. While the sauce is known for its spice, it can be made milder by using a less intense hot sauce or by adjusting the butter-to-hot-sauce ratio. In fact, some brands offer mild versions of Buffalo sauce, which retain the tangy and buttery qualities but with a more approachable heat level. On the other hand, if you’re a fan of intense spice, you can find extra-hot Buffalo sauces that pack a serious punch.

The spice level of Buffalo sauce also depends on individual tolerance. What might be spicy for one person may be relatively mild for another. If you're sensitive to heat, start with a mild version of Buffalo sauce and gradually increase the heat to find the perfect balance for your taste.

What Goes Well with Buffalo Sauce?

Buffalo sauce is a versatile condiment that pairs well with a wide range of dishes. It’s most famously used as a coating for chicken wings, but its bold flavour makes it an excellent addition to many other foods.

Wings

Of course, Buffalo wings are the dish most associated with Buffalo sauce. The tangy, spicy sauce coats crispy fried wings, creating a perfect combination of heat and crunch. You can also experiment with different wing cooking methods, such as grilled or baked, for a healthier twist.

Fries

Buffalo sauce is also a great dipping sauce for fries. Whether you prefer thick-cut fries, shoestring fries, or even sweet potato fries, a drizzle of Buffalo sauce will take your fries to the next level. For extra flavour, pair them with a cool dip, such as ranch or blue cheese, to balance out the heat.

Burgers

Buffalo sauce can be an exciting addition to burgers. It can be drizzled on the patty, mixed into the mayonnaise or aioli, or used as a topping to add heat and flavour. For a real twist, try a Buffalo chicken burger, where the chicken breast is coated in Buffalo sauce before being grilled.

Roasted Vegetables

Buffalo sauce isn’t just for meat. It can be used to add spice and richness to roasted vegetables, such as cauliflower, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. Toss the vegetables in Buffalo sauce before roasting for a fiery twist on your favourite veggie dishes.

Pizza

For a spicy kick, drizzle Buffalo sauce over pizza, particularly those with chicken or even vegetarian pizzas. The richness of the sauce complements the gooey cheese and crispy crust, adding a new dimension to your pizza night.

Does Buffalo Sauce Have Dairy?

Traditional Buffalo sauce contains butter, which makes it a dairy-based condiment. While this gives the sauce its creamy texture and richness, it can be an issue for those with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet. Fortunately, there are plenty of dairy-free alternatives available.

Many brands now offer vegan options made with plant-based butter or oil instead of dairy butter. TRUFF Buffalo Sauce, for example, delivers all the heat and flavour of traditional Buffalo sauce without the dairy content. With a focus on inclusivity, our Buffalo sauce provides a spicy and flavourful option that everyone can enjoy.

Substitutes for Buffalo Sauce

If you’re out of Buffalo sauce or want to experiment with different flavours, there are a few reliable substitutes you can use. A quick and easy alternative is to mix hot sauce with melted butter. This combination closely mimics the flavour and texture of traditional Buffalo sauce. Adjust the ratios to suit your preferred heat level, and you’re good to go.

Other spicy sauces, such as Sriracha or harissa, can also provide a bold kick in place of Buffalo sauce. While these alternatives won’t have the same tangy and buttery flavour profile, they can offer a similar level of heat and spice.

Elevate Your Dishes with TRUFF Buffalo Sauce

For those looking to spice up their dishes with a twist, TRUFF Buffalo Sauce is the perfect choice. This gourmet, dairy-free version of the classic sauce combines the bold heat of cayenne pepper with the rich, umami depth of truffle, creating a flavourful experience that enhances every bite. Our Buffalo sauce is not only delicious, but also features high-quality ingredients that set it apart from many standard, store-bought variations.

Whether you’re drizzling it on wings, mixing it into burgers, or tossing it with roasted veggies, this sauce will take your dishes to the next level with its bold, gourmet flavour profile.

Explore TRUFF Buffalo Sauce.