The Curious History and Controversy of Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings are a beloved and ubiquitous snack in the United States, especially during sporting events and late-night occasions. But have you ever wondered why they are made from chicken rather than the buffalo they are named after?

The Origins of Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings originated in Buffalo, New York, in the early 1960s. At the Anchor Bar, a small restaurant, the original dish was created as a late-night snack. The wings were deep-fried and then coated in a spicy sauce made from hot sauce and butter. This combination became the defining characteristic of the dish, quickly gaining popularity and becoming a staple in bars and restaurants.

The choice of chicken wings was likely due to their affordability and the fact that they were often considered a less desirable cut of meat. Chicken wings were a cost-effective substitute for buffalo wings (which are actually part of the bison), which are small and not as common in restaurants.

A Clever Cost-Cutting Secret Turned Marketing Genius

A clever cost-cutting secret in the restaurant business 'got out' and turned into a marketing genius. Initially, many budget-friendly roadhouse-type restaurants found it cost-effective to serve chicken wings instead of buffalo wings, as the latter were too small and expensive. Chicken became a cheap and widely available substitute, and by the time the truth was revealed, America had been eating chicken wings for years. They are about the same size, and the endless sauces used in the recipes made it difficult to distinguish between the two types of wings after a while.

A Tragic Evolution for Real Buffalo Wings

It's worth noting that real buffalo wings, also known as bison wings, were indeed made from actual buffalo wings. However, by the 1880s, the last of the winged buffalo had been hunted and eaten. This led to the shift to chicken wings, which are much more affordable and readily available. The popularity of buffalo wings has led to a situation where only a few high-end restaurants still use real buffalo wings, and the price reflects this exclusivity.

Myth Busting: Is There Buffalo Meat in Buffalo Wings?

Another common myth is the inclusion of pineapple in buffalo wings, often called "sauce bombs." While some people argue this is a modern twist, it's not necessary for the authentic buffalo wing experience. Many people believe that hamburgers are made from ham and that hotdogs contain dog meat, but in the case of buffalo wings, there is no buffalo meat. Similarly, hotdogs are not dogs, and hamburgers are not made from ham. The name "buffalo wings" refers to the place of origin, Buffalo, New York, and not the animal from which they are derived.

Conclusion: A Journey Through Etymology

Sometimes, in both English and other languages, certain things just don't make sense without understanding the etymology behind them. The story of buffalo wings is a fascinating journey through history, cost-cutting strategies, and the evolution of marketing. So, the next time you chomp down on a buffalo wing, remember that it's not just a simple snack but a story of substitution, innovation, and deliciousness.