Unlock the secret: crispy buffalo wings with drumsticks – can you do it?
What To Know
- Bake the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Don’t overcrowd the drumsticks in the pan or on the grill.
- Store leftover buffalo drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Buffalo wings, a beloved American appetizer, are traditionally made with chicken wings. But what if you’re craving those tangy, crispy flavors but only have drumsticks on hand? Can you make buffalo wings with drumsticks? The answer is a resounding yes! With a few simple adjustments, you can create mouthwatering buffalo drumsticks that will satisfy your cravings.
Why Use Drumsticks?
Drumsticks are a great alternative to wings for buffalo wings because:
- They’re meatier: Drumsticks have more meat than wings, making them a more substantial snack or meal.
- They’re cheaper: Drumsticks are often more affordable than wings, making them a budget-friendly option.
- They’re versatile: Drumsticks can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, baking, and frying.
How to Make Buffalo Drumsticks
Making buffalo drumsticks is a straightforward process that takes only a few simple steps:
1. Prepare the Drumsticks
- Start by removing any excess fat or skin from the drumsticks.
- Cut the drumsticks into individual pieces if desired.
2. Season the Drumsticks
- Season the drumsticks with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
- For a more authentic buffalo flavor, use a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Cook the Drumsticks
- You can cook the drumsticks using your preferred method:
- Grilling: Grill the drumsticks over medium heat for 10-15 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Baking: Bake the drumsticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the drumsticks for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Make the Buffalo Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and honey.
- Heat over medium heat until the butter has melted and the sauce is well combined.
5. Coat the Drumsticks
- Once the drumsticks are cooked, toss them in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
6. Serve Immediately
- Serve the buffalo drumsticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as blue cheese or ranch.
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Drumsticks
- For crispy drumsticks, pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the drumsticks in the pan or on the grill. This will prevent them from cooking evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the drumsticks are cooked through to 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
- If you don’t have hot sauce, you can use a combination of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and paprika to create a similar flavor.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding spices such as cumin, oregano, or thyme to the buffalo sauce.
Variations on Buffalo Drumsticks
- Honey Garlic Drumsticks: Add honey and garlic powder to the buffalo sauce for a sweet and savory flavor.
- BBQ Drumsticks: Use BBQ sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a smoky and tangy taste.
- Teriyaki Drumsticks: Combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and ginger for a flavorful Asian-inspired dish.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I make buffalo drumsticks in the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the drumsticks for 12-15 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Q: How do I store leftover buffalo drumsticks?
A: Store leftover buffalo drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze buffalo drumsticks?
A: Yes, you can freeze buffalo drumsticks for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.