What Does Buffalo Wild Wings Fry In

Okay, let's talk about something we've all pondered while inhaling copious amounts of wings and attempting to understand the offsides rule during a football game: What exactly is Buffalo Wild Wings frying all this deliciousness in?

Because, let's be honest, the specific oil bubbling away in their fryers is probably not the first thing on your mind when you're elbow-deep in a basket of boneless wings and surrounded by roaring fans. You're more likely thinking about things like: "Can I handle the Blazin' sauce this time?" or "Why is my team always losing?" But hey, curiosity eventually gets the best of us, right?

The Mystery of the Fryer

So, what's the deal? Is it some super-secret blend of exotic oils harvested from the deepest parts of the Amazon rainforest? Is it, like, liquid gold blessed by the Wing Gods themselves? Well, not quite. But it is a deliberate choice designed to give those wings that signature crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside texture we all know and love.

The answer, my friend, is…(drumroll please)... a blend of shortening.

Now, before you start picturing a giant vat of Crisco, let's clarify. It's not just Crisco (though, honestly, I wouldn't be totally surprised if they used it at some point in their history). Buffalo Wild Wings (BWW) uses a proprietary blend of frying shortening.

Think of it like this: you know how your grandma's secret ingredient in her famous chocolate chip cookies is probably just a pinch of something ordinary, but it makes all the difference? Same concept here. It's the specific mix of shortenings that gives BWW wings their characteristic taste and texture.

Because specifics of proprietary oil blends are trade secrets, the company refrains from publishing this information. However, the frying shortening is likely a blend of either cottonseed, soybean, or canola based shortening to achieve that perfect ratio of crispness and flavor.

Why Shortening? The Science of Crispy

You might be wondering, "Why not just use regular vegetable oil?" Great question! And the answer lies in the science of frying.

Shortening, particularly a blend like the kind BWW uses, has a few key advantages:

• High Smoke Point: This is crucial. You want an oil that can withstand high temperatures without breaking down and tasting burnt. A high smoke point allows the wings to cook quickly and evenly.
• Neutral Flavor: You want the flavor of the wings and the sauce to shine, not the oil. Shortening typically has a more neutral flavor than some other oils, letting the chicken be the star of the show.
• Crispiness Factor: Shortening helps create that crispy, golden-brown crust we all crave. It has to do with the way the fat interacts with the chicken's skin during the frying process. Trust me, it's magic.

Think of it this way: Trying to fry wings in olive oil is like trying to run a marathon in flip-flops. You could do it, but it's going to be messy, uncomfortable, and probably won't end well. Shortening is like the perfectly cushioned running shoes for deep-frying.

But Wait, There's More! Considerations Beyond the Oil

It's not just the type of shortening that makes BWW wings so good. Several other factors contribute to the final product:

• The Fryer Itself: They use commercial-grade fryers that maintain consistent temperatures, ensuring even cooking. Your little home fryer just can't compete (sorry, little fryer!).
• The Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is vital. Too low, and you get soggy wings. Too high, and you get burnt wings. BWW has mastered the art of the perfect frying temperature.
• The Turnover: They're constantly frying wings, which means the oil is relatively fresh. Old, used oil can impart a funky flavor to the food.
• The Secret Seasoning: Okay, I'm speculating here, but I wouldn't be surprised if they toss the wings in a little bit of something before frying. Maybe a touch of cornstarch for extra crispness? A pinch of salt and pepper? Who knows! It's their secret!

The Wing Experience: It's More Than Just the Oil

Let's be real. While the type of shortening is important, it's only one piece of the puzzle. The whole BWW experience is what keeps us coming back for more.

It's the atmosphere. The walls plastered with TVs showing every sport imaginable. The deafening roar of the crowd. The slightly sticky tables. The friendly (or sometimes overwhelmed) waitstaff. The endless sauce options. It's a whole vibe, man!

Think about it: You could probably replicate the wings at home, to some extent. You could even buy the same type of shortening. But you can't replicate the feeling of being surrounded by fellow sports fans, all united in their love of wings and questionable referee calls.

It's like trying to recreate a concert experience in your living room. You can put on the same album, crank up the volume, and even try to sing along (badly). But it's not the same as being in a crowd of thousands, feeling the energy of the music, and knowing that everyone around you is sharing the same experience.

The Health Factor: Let's Be Honest With Ourselves

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: deep-fried food isn't exactly health food. We all know this. But sometimes, you just gotta indulge, right?

I'm not going to pretend that BWW wings are a health food. They're not. They're delicious, greasy, and probably loaded with calories. But everything in moderation, my friend.

If you're concerned about the health impact, you can always opt for grilled wings instead of fried. Or maybe just go for a smaller portion. Or, you know, just accept your fate and enjoy every single delicious bite. Your choice!

Think of it like this: Eating a BWW wing is like driving a sports car. It's fun, exhilarating, and maybe a little bit reckless. You wouldn't drive it every day, but sometimes you just need to feel the wind in your hair (or, in this case, the grease on your fingers).

So, the Next Time You're at Buffalo Wild Wings...

...take a moment to appreciate the science and artistry that goes into those wings. Think about the blend of shortening, the perfect frying temperature, and the overall atmosphere. And then, just dig in and enjoy!

And remember, it's okay to be curious about what's in the fryer. It's part of the wing-eating experience. Just don't let it distract you from the game. Or the quest for the perfect sauce combination.

Ultimately, what Buffalo Wild Wings fries in is more than just shortening. It's an experience. It's a celebration of sports, wings, and good times. And that's something worth savoring.

So go forth, my friends, and conquer those wings! And may your team always win (or at least not lose too badly).

Disclaimer: While I've done my best to provide accurate information, Buffalo Wild Wings may change their oil blend or frying practices at any time. The best way to know for sure is to ask your server. But honestly, are you really going to do that? Just enjoy the wings!