Sweet and Smoky Mezcal-Infused Buffalo Wings

Mezcal, an artisanal Mexican distilled spirit made primarily from the agave plant, is noted for its smoky flavor, which is imparted during the roasting process of agave hearts. When incorporated into a wing sauce, mezcal adds an unexpected layer of depth and complexity. These Sweet and Smoky Mezcal-Infused Buffalo Wings blend the traditional tang of a buffalo sauce with the alluring smokiness of mezcal, augmented by a touch of sweetness to balance out the heat.

Primary Flavor Profile:

• Smokiness: Mezcal’s most distinguishable characteristic is its robust smoky flavor. This is not a subtle note either. It stands at the forefront of the buffalo wing sauce, reminiscent of campfires or smoked barbecue.
• Sweetness: To complement the heat of the traditional buffalo sauce and the smokiness of the mezcal, a sweet element is often introduced. This can come from honey, agave syrup, or even brown sugar. Agave nectar, derived from the same plant as mezcal, creates a natural flavor synergy that’s hard to replicate with other sweeteners.
• Heat: It’s not a buffalo sauce without some heat! The base of the sauce should include your favorite hot sauce, which can vary in heat levels.

The inclusion of ingredients like agave nectar, lime, and dried chipotle pepper introduces a depth and complexity that takes this sauce to the next level. Let’s dive deeper into the components, and how they impact the sauce on the whole:

• Mezcal: It’s the heart of the sauce. This smokiness provides a unique foundation, setting this sauce apart from a traditional buffalo sauce.
• Hot Sauce: It’s the primary source of heat. Depending on the hot sauce used, it can introduce varying levels of spiciness and flavors.
• Butter: Traditional to buffalo sauce, butter adds richness, creaminess, and helps temper the spiciness of the hot sauce. It provides a velvety mouthfeel and makes the sauce cling to the wings better.
• Agave Nectar: A natural sweetener that complements the smokiness of the mezcal. Its subtle caramel notes balance the heat from the hot sauce and add a touch of smooth sweetness.
• Lime Juice & Zest: These bring a burst of brightness to the sauce. Lime juice offers tanginess, which is counteracted by the other ingredients, while the zest imparts a fragrant aroma.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Its sharpness cuts through the richness of the butter and enhances the overall tang of the sauce. The acidity also balances the sweetness from the agave nectar.
• Garlic: A staple in my culinary repertoire, garlic introduces a deep, aromatic profile. Although in the background, it is essential in rounding out the flavors.
• Dried Chipotle Pepper: Chipotle peppers are smoke-dried jalapeños. They contribute a different kind of smokiness compared to mezcal – a deeper, more robust smokiness with a hint of spiciness. This enhances the overall complexity of the sauce.

The result of all these wonderful ingredients?

A spicy, smoky, sweet, and tangy sauce that coats wings beautifully and offers a multi-dimensional flavor experience with every bite. It’s a culinary journey from the smoky highlands of Oaxaca to the spicy heart of Buffalo wing country.

These wings are bold in flavor, so they pair well with milder, creamy dips, like a classic blue cheese dressing or a cilantro-lime ranch dip. To drink, a cold beer is always a classic choice with wings. However, given the Mexican influence of the mezcal, you might consider pairing these wings with a tangy margarita or even a mezcal cocktail to echo the flavors.