Subway is one of the most popular fast-food chains globally, and their menu boasts a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and sauces. Among their offerings, the buffalo sauce has gained a cult following, with many fans swearing by its spicy kick and tangy flavor. But have you ever wondered what makes Subway’s buffalo sauce so unique? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of buffalo sauce, exploring its origins, ingredients, and what sets Subway’s version apart from the rest.
A Brief History of Buffalo Sauce
Buffalo sauce has its roots in the city of Buffalo, New York, where it was created in the 1960s by Teressa Bellissimo, the owner of a local restaurant called the Anchor Bar. According to legend, Bellissimo created the sauce as a snack for her son and his friends, who were out late and looking for a quick bite. She took some chicken wings, deep-fried them, and then tossed them in a mixture of hot sauce and butter. The resulting sauce was an instant hit, and soon, buffalo wings became a staple of American cuisine.
The Evolution of Buffalo Sauce
Over the years, buffalo sauce has undergone many transformations. While the original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, many variations have emerged, each with its unique twist. Some recipes add a sweet and sour element, while others focus on the spicy kick. The sauce has also become a staple in many cuisines beyond American, with variations popping up in Asian, Latin American, and European cooking.
What’s in Subway’s Buffalo Sauce?
So, what makes Subway’s buffalo sauce so special? According to the company’s website, their buffalo sauce is made with a proprietary blend of ingredients, including:
- Vinegar: This gives the sauce its tangy flavor and helps to balance out the heat.
- Hot sauce: Subway uses a custom-made hot sauce that adds a spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Butter: Yes, you read that right – butter! This adds a richness and creaminess to the sauce that helps to balance out the heat.
- Spices: A blend of spices, including garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
While we can’t reveal the exact proportions of each ingredient, it’s clear that Subway’s buffalo sauce is a carefully crafted blend of flavors designed to complement their sandwiches and salads.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients in Subway’s buffalo sauce:
- Vinegar: Subway uses a type of vinegar called white vinegar, which is made from fermented grains. This gives the sauce a sharp, tangy flavor that helps to cut through the richness of the butter and hot sauce.
- Hot sauce: Subway’s hot sauce is custom-made for the company, and the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret. However, we can tell you that it’s made with a blend of hot peppers, including cayenne and red pepper flakes.
- Butter: Subway uses a type of butter called clarified butter, which is made by heating butter to separate the butterfat from the milk solids. This gives the sauce a rich, creamy texture that helps to balance out the heat.
How Does Subway’s Buffalo Sauce Compare to Other Brands?
So, how does Subway’s buffalo sauce stack up against other brands? Here are a few key differences:
- Heat level: Subway’s buffalo sauce is relatively mild compared to some other brands, with a Scoville heat unit (SHU) rating of around 30,000-40,000. For comparison, some hot sauces can have an SHU rating of over 100,000!
- Flavor profile: Subway’s buffalo sauce has a distinctive flavor profile that’s both tangy and slightly sweet. This sets it apart from other brands, which may focus more on the spicy kick.
- Ingredients: Subway’s buffalo sauce is made with a proprietary blend of ingredients, including vinegar, hot sauce, butter, and spices. This sets it apart from other brands, which may use different ingredients or proportions.
A Comparison of Buffalo Sauces
Here’s a comparison of Subway’s buffalo sauce with a few other popular brands:
| Brand | Heat Level (SHU) | Flavor Profile | Ingredients |
| — | — | — | — |
| Subway | 30,000-40,000 | Tangy, slightly sweet | Vinegar, hot sauce, butter, spices |
| Frank’s RedHot | 40,000-60,000 | Spicy, smoky | Hot sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder |
| Buffalo Wild Wings | 30,000-50,000 | Spicy, tangy | Hot sauce, butter, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder |
As you can see, each brand has its unique characteristics, and Subway’s buffalo sauce stands out for its tangy flavor and relatively mild heat level.
Conclusion
Subway’s buffalo sauce is a unique and delicious condiment that adds a spicy kick to their sandwiches and salads. With its proprietary blend of ingredients, including vinegar, hot sauce, butter, and spices, it’s a sauce that’s both tangy and slightly sweet. While it may not be the hottest sauce on the market, it’s a great option for those who want a flavorful sauce without overpowering heat. Whether you’re a fan of buffalo wings or just looking for a new sauce to add to your collection, Subway’s buffalo sauce is definitely worth trying.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Subway’s buffalo sauce is a tasty and versatile condiment that’s perfect for adding a spicy kick to your meals. With its unique flavor profile and relatively mild heat level, it’s a great option for those who want a flavorful sauce without overpowering heat. Whether you’re a fan of buffalo wings or just looking for a new sauce to add to your collection, Subway’s buffalo sauce is definitely worth trying. So next time you’re at Subway, be sure to give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
What is Subway’s Buffalo Sauce made of?
Subway’s Buffalo Sauce is a proprietary condiment made by the company, and its exact recipe is not publicly available. However, based on interviews with former Subway employees and food bloggers, it is believed to contain a combination of hot sauce and butter or margarine. The hot sauce is likely a variation of Frank’s RedHot, which is a common ingredient in buffalo wing recipes.
The sauce also contains vinegar, garlic powder, and other spices to give it a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Some fans of the sauce have even attempted to reverse-engineer the recipe, but the exact proportions of each ingredient remain a trade secret. Despite the mystery surrounding its ingredients, Subway’s Buffalo Sauce has become a beloved condiment among fans of the chain.
How spicy is Subway’s Buffalo Sauce?
Subway’s Buffalo Sauce has a moderate level of heat, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. On the Scoville scale, which measures the heat of a pepper or sauce, the sauce is estimated to have a rating of around 30,000-40,000 units. For comparison, Frank’s RedHot has a rating of 40,000-60,000 units, while Tabasco sauce has a rating of 30,000-60,000 units.
While the sauce is spicy, it is not overwhelmingly hot, making it a great option for those who enjoy a little heat but don’t want to be overwhelmed. The sauce also has a rich, creamy texture from the butter or margarine, which helps to balance out the heat. Overall, Subway’s Buffalo Sauce is a great option for those who enjoy spicy food but don’t want to be overwhelmed.
Can I buy Subway’s Buffalo Sauce in stores?
Unfortunately, Subway’s Buffalo Sauce is not available for purchase in stores. The sauce is a proprietary condiment that is only available at Subway restaurants. However, fans of the sauce can purchase similar buffalo wing sauces at most grocery stores or online.
Some fans of the sauce have even attempted to make their own versions at home using a combination of hot sauce and butter or margarine. While these homemade versions may not be exact replicas of Subway’s Buffalo Sauce, they can still be delicious and satisfying. For those who are craving the real thing, however, a trip to Subway is the only way to get it.
How do I use Subway’s Buffalo Sauce?
Subway’s Buffalo Sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways. The most obvious use is as a sauce for chicken sandwiches or wraps, but it can also be used as a dip for fries or chicken tenders. Some fans of the sauce even use it as a marinade for grilled chicken or as a topping for baked potatoes.
When using Subway’s Buffalo Sauce, it’s best to start with a small amount and add more to taste. The sauce is quite rich and spicy, so a little goes a long way. It’s also a good idea to pair the sauce with some creamy ingredients, such as ranch dressing or sour cream, to help balance out the heat.
Is Subway’s Buffalo Sauce gluten-free?
According to Subway’s website, their Buffalo Sauce is gluten-free. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the restaurant staff or the company’s customer service department to confirm. Some fans of the sauce have also reported that it is free from other common allergens, such as nuts and soy.
It’s worth noting that while the sauce itself may be gluten-free, some of the ingredients used in Subway’s restaurants may contain gluten. For example, the bread used in their sandwiches may contain gluten, so it’s always a good idea to ask about gluten-free options when ordering.
Can I make a vegan version of Subway’s Buffalo Sauce?
Yes, it is possible to make a vegan version of Subway’s Buffalo Sauce. The main challenge is replacing the butter or margarine with a vegan alternative. Some options include using a vegan butter substitute, such as Earth Balance, or using a non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy milk, to create a creamy texture.
To make a vegan version of the sauce, simply combine a hot sauce, such as Frank’s RedHot, with a vegan butter substitute or non-dairy milk. Add some vinegar, garlic powder, and other spices to taste, and you’ll have a delicious and cruelty-free version of Subway’s Buffalo Sauce.
Is Subway’s Buffalo Sauce available at all Subway locations?
Subway’s Buffalo Sauce is a standard condiment at most Subway locations, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm. Some locations may not carry the sauce, or they may be out of stock. Additionally, some international locations may not offer the sauce at all.
If you’re craving Subway’s Buffalo Sauce, it’s best to call the restaurant ahead of time to confirm that they have it in stock. You can also check the company’s website or mobile app to see if the sauce is listed as an available condiment at your local restaurant.