Barbecue Buffalo Sauce Spiciness

How Hot Is Buffalo Sauce? Understanding Its Spice Levels

Written By James Morgan
How Hot Is Buffalo Sauce? Understanding Its Spice Levels

When it comes to barbecue, one of the most favorite additions to meals is buffalo sauce. But many barbecue enthusiasts find themselves asking, how hot is buffalo sauce? In this article, we will delve deep into the heat levels associated with buffalo sauce, its varying types, and the effects it can have on your grilling experience.

Buffalo sauce, famed for its tangy and spicy profile, is a staple in many restaurants and homes. However, the **heat** it offers can vary significantly depending on its ingredients and preparation. In fact, understanding the heat levels can enhance your barbecue gatherings, making them more enjoyable and comfortable for everyone.

how hot is buffalo sauce

What is Buffalo Sauce?

Buffalo sauce originated in Buffalo, New York, and is traditionally made from a mix of **hot sauce**, butter, vinegar, and spices. The main component that contributes to the heat of the sauce is the **hot sauce** used in its preparation. The strength of this component is what determines the overall spice level of buffalo sauce.

Different Types of Buffalo Sauce

There are various types of buffalo sauces available, each varying in heat levels:

  • Traditional Buffalo Sauce: Usually made from Frank's RedHot sauce, the base for traditional buffalo sauce has a heat level of about 450-700 SHU (Scoville Heat Units).
  • Extremely Hot Buffalo Sauce: Some brands amp up the spice, using hotter peppers or additional spices, leading to levels that can reach over 1,000 SHU.
  • Mild Buffalo Sauce: Some variations use milder sauces, keeping the heat level under 250 SHU, making it friendlier for those sensitive to spice.
how hot is buffalo sauce

What Are Scoville Heat Units?

To truly understand how hot buffalo sauce is, you need to be familiar with Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This measurement indicates the heat level in pepper extracts. For reference, heres how it looks in relation to other famous spicy elements:

  • Mild Pepper (e.g., bell pepper): 0 SHU
  • Jalapeo Pepper: 2,500 - 8,000 SHU
  • Buffalo Sauce (traditional): 450 - 700 SHU

The Impact of Ingredients on Spiciness

Buffalo sauce's heat arises from its individual ingredients. A sauce made with a hotter hot sauce will inevitably be spicier. Other influences include:

  • Vinegar: Adds tanginess but does not contribute to heat.
  • Butter: Balances out the spice, enhancing flavor but reducing perceived heat.
  • Additional spices: Such as cayenne pepper, which can elevate spiciness.
how hot is buffalo sauce

The Ideal Pairings for Buffalo Sauce

Now that we've tackled how hot buffalo sauce can be, the next question on every barbecue enthusiast's mind is how to enjoy it! Here are some pairing ideas:

  • Wings: The classic pairing with buffalo sauce never disappoints. Spicy buffalo wings are iconic!
  • French Fries: Dipping fries into buffalo sauce is an addictive treat!
  • Sandwiches and Burgers: Giving a generous drizzle on your sandwich adds a punch of flavor.

For some innovative ideas on pairing buffalo sauce with various dishes, visit this pairing guide.

Popular Brands and Their Heat Levels

Each brand of buffalo sauce comes with its unique heat profile. Here are a few popular brands and their heat levels:

  • Frank's RedHot: 450-700 SHU
  • Crystal Hot Sauce: 2000 SHU
  • Cholula Hot Sauce: 1000-2000 SHU

The brand you choose can dramatically alter your experience, so make sure to choose wisely!

Buffalo Sauce and Health

While hot sauce can be delightful, health-conscious users may question its benefits or drawbacks. Studies indicate that moderate consumption of hot sauce, including buffalo sauce, can boost metabolism and enhance flavor without adding too many calories. For more in-depth health perspectives, check this health resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you make buffalo sauce hotter?

Yes! You can increase the heat by incorporating hotter hot sauces or adding ingredients like cayenne pepper.

2. What is the best way to store buffalo sauce?

Its best to refrigerate buffalo sauce to maintain freshness. For more insights, check out this guide.

3. Is there a non-spicy alternative to buffalo sauce?

You can create a mild version using sweet chili sauce as a base.

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(180 Cu. In. (2 Pack)
$35.43
(2 Pack) Ocean'S Halo, Organic Soy-Free Spicy Korean BBQ Sauce, 12 Ounce
$48.00
(Hot&Spicy) CJ Korean BBQ Original Sauce Chicken & Pork Marinade 29.6 Ounce (1)
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(Set of 3) Heavy Duty Vegetable Grill Baskets for Outdoor Grill, Stainless Steel Veggie Grilling Basket for All Grills, BBQ Gifts for Men, 1 Large & 2 Small
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, 24025BMT, Cast 2-Burner, Liquid Propane Gas Grill, Black
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, 60936, Grill Light Cob Handle Mount,Black
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, Deli Slices, Hickory Smoked, 5.5 Oz
$10.28
, Inc. 1423 Broiler Brush, Black
$77.66
, One Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan Seasoning Mix, 1.5 Oz
$5.65
, Santa Maria Style Seasoning, 7 Oz.
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- 4 Piece Black Drillbrush Ultra Stiff Cleaning Brush Set - Metal Brush for Drill Alternative - Grill Brush for Cordless Drill - Grill Grate Cleaner Brush
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- Carolina Barbeque Sauce, Gourmet Carolina Sauce, Tangy BBQ Sauce with Tomato Vinegar, Premium Ingredients, Made with Gluten-Free Ingredients (20 Oz)
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- Double Pre-Seasoned, Square Carbon Steel BBQ Grill Griddle, Made in USA - Perfect for Gas Grill - Durable, Flat Top Grill Pan - 1/4" Thick, 14" X 18"
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- Grill Brush and Scraper, 16.7”, Stainless Steel, Grill Cleaner, Grill Brush, Grill Cleaning Brush, BBQ Brill Brush, BBQ Brush for Grill Cleaning, Grill Brush for Outdoor Grill, Safe Grill Brush
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- Magnetic Barbecue BBQ Light Set for Grilling - 6 Alkaline AAA Batteries Included - Works on All Grills with an Exception to Stainless Steel.
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- Master Grill Pan, Korean Traditional BBQ Grill Pan - Stovetop Nonstick Indoor/Outdoor Smokeless BBQ Cast Aluminum Grill Pan
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- Meat Claws Bbq Grill Accessories Set - 2 Silicone Gloves, Claws for Pulled Pork, BBQ Thermometer - Perfect Smoker Accessories Grilling Tools Gift Set for (Orange Glove-Thermometer-Claw)
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- Monterey Seafood Seasoning and Hog Wild Cajun Seasoning, Gluten-Free Bbq Rubs and Spices for Smoking
$55.17
- Onyx Collection, 12-Inch Grill Pan, Coated with New Teflon Platinum Non-Stick Coating (PFOA Free) (12-Inch)
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- Professional Grade Chef Apron for Kitchen, BBQ & Grill
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- Stovetop Indoor Korean BBQ Nonstick Grill Pan With, Pfoa-Free, Dishwasher Oven Safe, Made in Korea
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-Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven, Rotating Propane Pizza Grill Oven for Exterior Backyard Pizza Maker with 14" Pizza Stone, Portable Pizza Ovens for outside with Pizza Peel,Pia,Cutter,Gloves and Thermometer.
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. the Safer Grill Cleaning Brush. All Natural. No Metal Bristles.
$59.98
07047 Cool Touch Electric Griddle
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07061 22-Inch Electric Griddle with Removable Handles, Black, 22-Inch
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1 Pair/2 Pieces BBQ Gloves, Grilling Gloves, Heat Resistant Barbecue Oven Gloves, 1472°F/800°C Kitchen Fireproof Mitts Heat Proof for Grilling, Baking, Cooking, Welding Gloves Mitts - Red
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1 Piece Random Nonstick Enameled Cast Iron Pan/Pot (4 Styles: 10.25" Skillet/2Qt Saucepan/2.8Qt/4.8Qt Dutch Oven) – Healthy round Pot for Sourdough Bread Baking on All Stovetops, Mystery Cookware Box
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1-Piece 16.50 Inch Cast Iron Griddle Plate | Reversible Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Pan for Gas Stovetop | Double Sided Used on Open Fire & in Oven | Pre-Coated with Oil
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1/2" X 1/8" Lavalock High Temp BBQ Gasket Smoker Seal for Nomex Door Lid, Self Stick Grey
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1/3Pc Non-Stick BBQ Grill Mat 40*33Cm Baking Mat Cooking Grilling Sheet Heat Resistance Easily Cleaned Kitchen for Party
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10 Inch Griddle Spatula Holder Magnetic Design, Stainless Steel Grill Barbecue Tool Rack, Griddle Accessories for Blackstone Flat Top Griddle and Other Grill Griddles (2 Pcs)
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10-42 BBQ Brisket Rub - All-Natural Spice Seasoning for Steak, Rib, Beef Brisket - Barbecue Meat Seasoning Dry Rub - BBQ Rubs and Spices for Smoking and Grilling - No MSG, 0 Calorie - 10.5Oz Bottle
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100 Pcs Grilling Gloves Kit Disposable BBQ Gloves with 2 Pairs Cotton Liners Grilling Gloves Cooking Gloves Latex Free Nitrile Gloves for Outdoor Grilling Barbecue Cooking
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100% All-Natural Hardwood Pellets - Maple Wood (20 Lb. Bag) Perfect for Pellet Smokers, Smoky Wood-Fired Flavor
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100% Compostable Food Prep Gloves, Restaurant-Quality,For Food Handling, Powder-Free, 100 Count, Medium, Earth Friendly Highest ASTM D6400, US BPI and Europe OK Compost Certified, San Francisco
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12 Inch Lightweight Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle with Cleaning Kit - Smooth Polished Surface, Easy to Clean Cast Iron Skillets Use in the Oven, on the Stove or Grill, over a Campfire
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