You Won’t Believe What Kentucky Fried Chicken Uses Instead of Buttermilk!
What To Know
- In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of KFC’s breading and explore the role of buttermilk in creating their signature fried chicken.
- In a 2016 interview, KFC’s then-chief marketing officer, Kevin Hochman, stated that the “Original Recipe” was “a blend of 11 herbs and spices, and buttermilk is one of those ingredients.
- While the use of buttermilk in KFC’s “Original Recipe” remains a mystery, it’s clear that their success lies in a combination of factors.
The iconic Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is renowned for its crispy, juicy fried chicken. But what’s the secret behind its signature taste and texture? Does Kentucky Fried Chicken use buttermilk? This question has been a subject of debate among food enthusiasts and chicken lovers alike. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of KFC’s breading and explore the role of buttermilk in creating their signature fried chicken.
The Allure of Buttermilk in Fried Chicken
Buttermilk is a popular ingredient in fried chicken recipes for a reason. Its unique properties contribute to the crispy, flavorful, and juicy results that many crave.
- Tenderization: Buttermilk’s lactic acid helps to tenderize the chicken by breaking down the proteins. This results in a more succulent and flavorful piece of fried chicken.
- Flavor Enhancement: The tangy flavor of buttermilk adds a distinct depth to the chicken, creating a more complex taste profile.
- Crispy Coating: Buttermilk helps to create a crispy coating by acting as a binder for the breading. Its moisture helps the breading adhere to the chicken, resulting in a more robust and flavorful crust.
KFC’s Bread Recipe: A Closely Guarded Secret
While KFC’s exact breading recipe is a closely guarded secret, there’s no official confirmation that they use buttermilk. However, the company has been known to experiment with different breading techniques and ingredients over the years.
The “Original Recipe” and its Evolution
KFC’s “Original Recipe” is a blend of 11 herbs and spices, famously kept secret for decades. While the exact ingredients remain unknown, the company has hinted at using buttermilk in the past.
In a 2016 interview, KFC’s then-chief marketing officer, Kevin Hochman, stated that the “Original Recipe” was “a blend of 11 herbs and spices, and buttermilk is one of those ingredients.” However, this statement was met with skepticism from some food critics and industry insiders.
The “Extra Crispy” Option: Another Perspective
KFC’s “Extra Crispy” chicken offers a different take on their fried chicken. This option features a thicker, more robust breading that delivers a satisfyingly crispy bite. While the exact recipe for “Extra Crispy” remains confidential, it’s believed that it may utilize a different breading technique that doesn’t involve buttermilk.
The Importance of Bread Flour and Other Ingredients
Beyond buttermilk, other ingredients play crucial roles in achieving KFC‘s signature fried chicken. Bread flour, with its high gluten content, contributes to the crispy texture of the coating. Other ingredients, such as salt, pepper, and other spices, enhance the flavor profile.
The “Secret” of KFC’s Success: Beyond Buttermilk
While the use of buttermilk in KFC’s “Original Recipe” remains a mystery, it’s clear that their success lies in a combination of factors:
- The “Original Recipe” Blend: The unique blend of herbs and spices, whether or not it includes buttermilk, contributes significantly to the flavor.
- The Breading Technique: KFC’s breading technique, which involves multiple layers of breading, ensures a crispy and flavorful crust.
- The Pressure Fryer: KFC’s pressure fryers cook the chicken at a higher temperature and pressure, resulting in a more tender and juicy product.
- The Consistency: KFC’s strict adherence to its recipe and procedures ensures a consistent product across all locations.
The Final Word: Does KFC Use Buttermilk?
The answer to the question “Does Kentucky Fried Chicken use buttermilk?” remains elusive. While KFC has hinted at using buttermilk in the past, their exact breading recipe is a closely guarded secret. Whether or not they use buttermilk, KFC’s success is a testament to their unique blend of ingredients, breading technique, and cooking methods.
The Legacy of KFC’s Fried Chicken
KFC’s fried chicken has become a global phenomenon, enjoyed by millions worldwide. The brand’s commitment to quality and consistency has cemented its place as a beloved fast-food chain. Whether or not buttermilk is part of their secret recipe, KFC’s fried chicken continues to tantalize taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Why is buttermilk used in fried chicken?
A: Buttermilk is used in fried chicken for its tenderizing properties, flavor enhancement, and ability to create a crispy coating.
Q: Does KFC use buttermilk in their “Extra Crispy” chicken?
A: It’s unknown if KFC uses buttermilk in their “Extra Crispy” chicken. The recipe for this option is confidential and may utilize a different breading technique.
Q: What other ingredients are used in KFC’s fried chicken?
A: KFC’s fried chicken recipe includes a blend of 11 herbs and spices, bread flour, salt, pepper, and other ingredients.
Q: Can I make KFC-style fried chicken at home?
A: While you can’t replicate KFC’s exact recipe, you can create delicious fried chicken at home using buttermilk, bread flour, and your favorite spices. There are numerous online recipes available for KFC-inspired fried chicken.
Q: Is KFC’s fried chicken healthy?
A: Like most fried foods, KFC’s fried chicken is high in calories, fat, and sodium. It’s best to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
