Buffalo sauce, a staple condiment in American cuisine, is known for its spicy kick. However, not everyone can handle the intense heat of traditional buffalo sauce. If you’re looking for a milder alternative that still packs a flavorful punch, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the least hot buffalo sauce options, their Scoville heat units (SHU), and what makes them unique.
Understanding the Scoville Scale
Before diving into the least hot buffalo sauce options, it’s essential to understand the Scoville scale. Developed by Wilbur Scoville in 1912, this method measures the heat level of a pepper or sauce by quantifying the amount of capsaicin present. Capsaicin is the compound responsible for the “burning” sensation we experience when consuming spicy food. The Scoville scale ranges from 0 SHU, which is the rating for a sweet pepper, to over 2 million SHU, which is the rating for some of the hottest peppers in the world.
How Buffalo Sauce is Rated on the Scoville Scale
Buffalo sauce typically ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 SHU, with some variations reaching up to 100,000 SHU. The heat level of buffalo sauce depends on the type and amount of hot peppers used in its production. The most common peppers used in buffalo sauce are cayenne peppers, which have a Scoville rating of 30,000-50,000 SHU.
The Least Hot Buffalo Sauce Options
If you’re looking for a milder buffalo sauce, here are some options to consider:
1. Sweet Baby Ray’s Buffalo Wing Sauce
Sweet Baby Ray’s is a well-known brand in the BBQ and wing sauce market. Their buffalo wing sauce has a Scoville rating of 10,000-20,000 SHU, making it a great option for those who want a mild buffalo sauce. This sauce is made with a blend of hot peppers, vinegar, and spices, giving it a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
2. Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce (Mild)
Frank’s RedHot is a popular hot sauce brand that offers a mild buffalo wing sauce option. With a Scoville rating of 10,000-20,000 SHU, this sauce is perfect for those who want a buffalo sauce that’s not too spicy. Frank’s RedHot Mild Buffalo Wing Sauce is made with a blend of hot peppers, vinegar, and spices, giving it a classic buffalo flavor.
3. Buffalo Wild Wings’ Blazin’ Sauce (Mild Version)
Buffalo Wild Wings is a popular chain of restaurants known for their buffalo wings. Their Blazin’ Sauce is a fan favorite, but it’s also extremely spicy, with a Scoville rating of 350,000-400,000 SHU. However, they also offer a mild version of this sauce, which has a Scoville rating of 10,000-20,000 SHU. This sauce is made with a blend of hot peppers, vinegar, and spices, giving it a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
4. Anchor Bar Buffalo Wing Sauce
Anchor Bar is a restaurant in Buffalo, New York, that’s credited with inventing the buffalo wing. Their buffalo wing sauce has a Scoville rating of 10,000-20,000 SHU, making it a great option for those who want a mild buffalo sauce. This sauce is made with a blend of hot peppers, vinegar, and spices, giving it a classic buffalo flavor.
What Makes a Good Buffalo Sauce?
When it comes to buffalo sauce, there are several factors that contribute to a good sauce. Here are some key considerations:
1. Balance of Flavors
A good buffalo sauce should have a balance of flavors, including spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet notes. The sauce should be able to complement the flavor of the wings without overpowering them.
2. Quality of Ingredients
The quality of ingredients used in the sauce is crucial. Look for sauces that use high-quality hot peppers, vinegar, and spices. Avoid sauces that use artificial preservatives or flavor enhancers.
3. Heat Level
The heat level of the sauce is a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking for a mild buffalo sauce, look for options with a Scoville rating of 10,000-20,000 SHU.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a mild buffalo sauce that still packs a flavorful punch, there are several options to consider. Sweet Baby Ray’s Buffalo Wing Sauce, Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce (Mild), Buffalo Wild Wings’ Blazin’ Sauce (Mild Version), and Anchor Bar Buffalo Wing Sauce are all great choices. When selecting a buffalo sauce, consider the balance of flavors, quality of ingredients, and heat level. With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find a sauce that complements your wings perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo sauce is a staple condiment in American cuisine, and there’s a reason why it’s so popular. The combination of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors is a winning combination that complements the flavor of wings perfectly. Whether you’re a fan of mild or spicy buffalo sauce, there’s an option out there for you. Experiment with different sauces and find the one that works best for your taste buds.
| Sauce | Scoville Rating | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Baby Ray’s Buffalo Wing Sauce | 10,000-20,000 SHU | Hot peppers, vinegar, spices |
| Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce (Mild) | 10,000-20,000 SHU | Hot peppers, vinegar, spices |
| Buffalo Wild Wings’ Blazin’ Sauce (Mild Version) | 10,000-20,000 SHU | Hot peppers, vinegar, spices |
| Anchor Bar Buffalo Wing Sauce | 10,000-20,000 SHU | Hot peppers, vinegar, spices |
Note: The Scoville ratings listed are approximate and may vary depending on the specific product and batch.
What is the least hot buffalo sauce, and how is it measured?
The least hot buffalo sauce is typically measured by its Scoville heat unit (SHU) rating, which is a method of measuring the heat level of a pepper or sauce. The SHU rating is determined by the amount of capsaicin present in the sauce, with higher ratings indicating a hotter sauce. For buffalo sauce, a mild rating is usually considered to be around 1,000-2,000 SHU, while a medium rating is around 2,000-5,000 SHU.
Some popular buffalo sauces that are considered mild include Frank’s RedHot, which has an SHU rating of 1,500, and Sweet Baby Ray’s Buffalo Wing Sauce, which has an SHU rating of 1,000. These sauces still have a spicy kick, but are generally milder than other buffalo sauces on the market.
What are some popular brands of mild buffalo sauce?
There are several popular brands of mild buffalo sauce available in stores and online. Some popular options include Frank’s RedHot, Sweet Baby Ray’s, and Annie’s Naturals. These brands offer a range of mild buffalo sauces that are perfect for those who want to add a little heat to their meals without overpowering them.
In addition to these brands, there are also many smaller, artisanal brands that offer unique and flavorful mild buffalo sauces. These brands may use high-quality, all-natural ingredients and unique flavor combinations to create a truly delicious sauce.
How can I make my own mild buffalo sauce at home?
Making your own mild buffalo sauce at home is easy and only requires a few ingredients. The basic ingredients include hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and spices. To make a mild sauce, you can use a small amount of hot sauce, such as Frank’s RedHot, and mix it with melted butter and vinegar.
You can also add spices and seasonings to taste, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations can help you create a unique and delicious mild buffalo sauce that suits your taste preferences.
What are some uses for mild buffalo sauce beyond wings?
While mild buffalo sauce is often associated with chicken wings, it can be used in a variety of dishes beyond wings. Some popular uses include using it as a dip for vegetables, such as carrots and celery, or as a sauce for pizza and pasta.
Mild buffalo sauce can also be used as a marinade for chicken, beef, or pork, adding a spicy kick to grilled meats. Additionally, it can be used as a topping for tacos, nachos, and other snacks, adding a flavorful and spicy kick.
Can I adjust the heat level of my mild buffalo sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the heat level of your mild buffalo sauce to suit your taste preferences. If you find that your sauce is too mild, you can add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes to increase the heat level.
On the other hand, if you find that your sauce is too hot, you can add more butter or cream to dilute the heat. You can also add dairy products, such as sour cream or yogurt, to help neutralize the heat.
Is mild buffalo sauce suitable for all ages?
Mild buffalo sauce can be suitable for all ages, depending on individual tolerance for spice. Children and those who are sensitive to spice may find that even mild buffalo sauce is too hot, while others may enjoy the flavor and heat.
It’s always a good idea to start with a small amount and adjust to taste, especially when serving mild buffalo sauce to children or those who are new to spicy foods. You can also offer a milder alternative, such as a ranch or blue cheese dressing, for those who prefer a non-spicy option.
Can I use mild buffalo sauce in place of hot sauce in recipes?
Yes, you can use mild buffalo sauce in place of hot sauce in many recipes. However, keep in mind that mild buffalo sauce has a thicker, more sauce-like consistency than hot sauce, so you may need to adjust the amount used and the cooking time.
Additionally, mild buffalo sauce has a more complex flavor profile than hot sauce, with a balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. This can affect the overall flavor of the dish, so you may need to adjust the amount of other seasonings and spices used in the recipe.