Buffalo Wings: Myth or Fact—The True Story Behind the Name

Introduction

The question of whether buffalo wings are actually made from buffalo meat has been a topic of debate for many years. While some people have the catchy idea that these yummy chicken treats are named after buffalo, the truth is quite different. Buffalo wings are indeed made from chicken wings. The confusion arises from the origin of the dish, which has a rich and fascinating history.

The Truth Behind Buffalo Wings

The confusion about buffalo wings often stems from a misunderstanding of the origin story. For instance, it is common to hear people say, "Buffalo wings are actually chicken wings because buffalo don't have wings!" While this is technically accurate in the sense that buffalo do not have wings, it doesn't address the true origin of the dish.

The name "Buffalo wings" is not a reference to the animal at all. Instead, the name stems from the city of Buffalo, New York, where the dish was first created. A significant moment in the history of Buffalo wings occurred at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. Employee Terrell Connor was looking for a way to use leftover chicken wings, and he came up with a recipe that would coat the wings with a special sauce, which eventually became known as the original "Buffalo sauce."

Myth Busting: Buffalo Wings and Buffalo

Some people mistakenly believe that buffalo wings are named after the buffalo because of the sauces' spiciness. However, the name "Buffalo wings" has nothing to do with the spice level or any aspect of the buffalo. It's purely a location-based term.

It's worth noting that while buffalo don't have wings in the anatomical sense, these animals are indeed fascinating creatures with unique characteristics. Buffalo are known for their shaggy pelts and are often mistaken for cows, but they are different from cattle in several ways, including their horns and behavior.

The Legend of the Buffalo

In terms of mythological creatures, there is a legend about certain animals in folklore having wings. However, no species of buffalo has wings in reality. The picture is further complicated by the historical context. In the United States, particularly in the 19th century, bison (also commonly known as buffalo) were seen as powerful and mystical creatures, often associated with the wild and untamed parts of the American West. This could have contributed to the confusion about buffalo wings but has no bearing on the actual origin of the dish.

Conclusion

In summary, while the name "Buffalo wings" is a fun and quirky name that has stuck, it has nothing to do with the wings of buffaloes. Buffalo wings are, without a doubt, made from chicken wings. The name simply reflects the origin story of this beloved dish, which began in the city of Buffalo, New York. So, when you enjoy a plate of Buffalo wings, remember the true story behind the name and the rich culinary history that makes them so special.