Kamil Perry
Blue cheese or ranch? Ranch or blue cheese? This is a question that has plagued Americans for decades, especially when it comes to chicken wings and salads. Both dressings have a base of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise, but there are some differences in their ingredients and flavours. Blue cheese has a stronger, more pungent flavour, while ranch is known for being tangy and slightly sweet. So, does ranch have blue cheese in it?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Base | Buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise |
| Common herbs | Dill, parsley, and chives |
| Texture | Creamy |
| Flavor | Tangy and slightly sweet |
| Blue cheese crumbles | No |
| Vinegar | No |
| Calories | 140 per serving |
| Fat | 14 grams per serving |
| Carbohydrates | 2 grams per serving |
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What You'll Learn
Ranch and blue cheese dressings have a similar base
The “ranch vs. blue cheese” debate has been a highly contested topic, especially when it comes to chicken wings and salads. While the two dressings have distinct flavours and textures, ranch and blue cheese dressings do share a similar base.
Both dressings use a combination of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise as their base, which gives them similar flavours. However, the specific ingredients and preparation methods used for each dressing set them apart in terms of taste and texture. For example, ranch dressing typically includes herbs such as dill, parsley, and chives, giving it a tangy and slightly sweet flavour with a creamy consistency. On the other hand, blue cheese dressing contains crumbled blue cheese and vinegar, resulting in a pungent and tangy flavour with a thicker consistency.
The origin of blue cheese dressing is believed to date back to the early 20th century in the United States, with one of the earliest recordings found in the Edgewater Beach Hotel Salad book from 1928. Ranch dressing, on the other hand, was invented in the early 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber in Alaska who created the dressing for his fellow construction workers. He later moved to California and opened a dude ranch, where he served his homemade dressing to guests.
The choice between ranch and blue cheese dressings often depends on personal preference and the type of dish being served. Ranch dressing is preferred for salads with milder or sweeter flavours, while blue cheese dressing pairs well with dishes that have stronger or spicier flavours, such as buffalo wings or steak. Nutritional value can also be a factor in the decision, as the calorie content and fat levels vary between the two dressings.
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Ranch dressing is generally milder and tangier
The dressing was first created in the early 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber in Alaska who later moved to California and opened a dude ranch. Henson's original recipe used dry herbs and aromatics, including garlic powder and dried parsley. The dressing was likely served to guests at the ranch, who encouraged Henson to sell his creation. This eventually led to the popularisation of the dressing in the US.
Today, ranch dressing is often made with fresh herbs, which add a vibrant flavour and texture. The use of dried herbs, however, remains closer to the "authentic" recipe. The dressing is typically tangy, but its tanginess can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of buttermilk used. For a milder flavour, Greek yoghurt can be used in place of sour cream.
Ranch dressing is a versatile condiment that can be used as a salad dressing, a dipping sauce, or even a drizzle over pizza. Its mild and tangy flavour makes it a good choice for salads with milder or sweeter flavours, such as a Cobb salad or a salad with fruit. It is also suitable for dipping raw vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks. The versatility of ranch dressing allows for customisation with additional ingredients such as cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce.
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Blue cheese has a pungent, stronger flavour
Ranch dressing, on the other hand, has a milder, tangier, and slightly sweeter flavour. It is a good choice for salads with milder or sweeter flavours, such as a Cobb salad or a salad with fruit. It is also commonly used for dipping raw vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks. Ranch is made with a base of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise, and often includes herbs such as dill, parsley, and chives.
The choice between ranch and blue cheese dressings is a matter of personal preference and the type of dish being served. However, it is worth noting that blue cheese has a more distinct and stronger flavour profile, which may be preferred by those who enjoy bolder flavours or are looking for a cooling contrast to spicy dishes.
The origin of blue cheese dressing is believed to have originated in the US in the early 20th century, with one of the earliest recordings of the recipe found in the Edgewater Beach Hotel Salad book, dating back to 1928. Ranch dressing, on the other hand, was invented in the early 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber in Alaska who later moved to California and opened a dude ranch.
While the "ranch vs. blue cheese" debate continues to rage across the US, with some preferring the stronger flavour of blue cheese and others opting for the milder ranch, the decision ultimately comes down to individual taste preferences and the specific dish being served.
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Ranch is the most popular choice for chicken wings
Ranch and blue cheese dressings have a lot in common, including a base of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise. However, ranch is typically made with herbs such as dill, parsley, and chives, while blue cheese contains crumbled blue cheese and vinegar. These differences give ranch its signature tangy and slightly sweet flavor, as well as a creamy consistency. Blue cheese, on the other hand, has a pungent flavor and thicker consistency due to the cheese crumbles.
When it comes to chicken wings, ranch is a popular choice for several reasons. Firstly, ranch dressing has a mild flavor that pairs well with chicken wings, enhancing their taste without overwhelming them. Its creamy texture also complements the crispy, juicy texture of well-prepared chicken wings. In addition, ranch's tanginess can help balance out the spiciness of certain chicken wing flavors, such as buffalo or barbecue wings.
Another reason ranch is favored by many chicken wing enthusiasts is its versatility. It can be used as a dipping sauce, or it can be incorporated into the cooking process by using it as a marinade or basting sauce. This dual functionality makes it a convenient option for those who want to enjoy the flavor of ranch with their chicken wings.
Furthermore, ranch is widely available in stores and restaurants, making it easily accessible for those who want to enjoy it with their chicken wings. It is also relatively affordable, which adds to its appeal. For those who prefer to make their own ranch, it is a simple process that only requires a few common ingredients, as demonstrated by the many homemade ranch seasoning recipes available online.
While blue cheese is also a popular choice for chicken wings, ranch takes the lead as the most popular option. Its mild flavor, creamy texture, and versatility make it a favorite among chicken wing lovers. Whether store-bought or homemade, ranch is a classic choice for chicken wings that continues to be enjoyed by many.
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Blue cheese is more versatile
The great "ranch vs. blue cheese" debate rages across the US, with blue cheese being the preferred choice in Buffalo, New York, for chicken wings, and ranch being the more popular choice for salads. While both dressings share some common ingredients, such as a base of buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise, blue cheese is more versatile and can be incorporated into a wider variety of dishes.
Blue cheese has a stronger, more pungent flavor compared to the milder, tangier taste of ranch. This makes it a better choice for dishes with bolder flavors, such as spicy buffalo wings, steak, or burgers. It can also add a nice flavor to sandwiches with bold toppings. In contrast, ranch's mild flavor pairs well with milder or sweeter salads, like a Cobb salad or a fruity salad. It is also suitable for dipping raw vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks.
The versatility of blue cheese extends beyond its ability to complement spicier dishes. It is also a natural coolant, helping to combat the heat of capsaicin on your taste buds. This quality makes it an ideal choice for dishes with a kick, providing both flavor and relief from the spiciness. Blue cheese is also lower in calories, making it a healthier option for those watching their calorie intake.
The origin of blue cheese dressing is believed to have originated in the US in the early 20th century, with one of the earliest recordings of the recipe found in the Edgewater Beach Hotel Salad book, dating back to 1928. The recipe was called Roquefort dressing, named after the French blue cheese used in its preparation. Ranch dressing, on the other hand, is a more recent creation, invented in the early 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber in Alaska who later moved to California and opened a dude ranch.
While the preference for ranch or blue cheese ultimately comes down to personal taste, it is clear that blue cheese has a more diverse range of uses in the kitchen. Its ability to enhance spicier dishes, act as a coolant, and offer a healthier option contributes to its versatility. Blue cheese's distinct flavor and texture make it a valuable ingredient that can elevate a variety of meals.
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Frequently asked questions
No, ranch does not have blue cheese in it. Ranch dressing includes buttermilk, mayonnaise, herbs like chives, dill, parsley, and spices. Blue cheese, on the other hand, is made with blue cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, yogurt, milk, vinegar, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Ranch dressing was invented in the early 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber in Alaska. It typically includes buttermilk, sour cream, and mayonnaise, with herbs such as dill, parsley, and chives.
Blue cheese dressing contains crumbled blue cheese and vinegar. It also includes mayonnaise, sour cream, yogurt, milk, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Ranch has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor with a creamy consistency. Blue cheese dressing has a pungent flavor and thicker consistency due to the blue cheese crumbles.
Ranch dressing is good for milder or sweeter salads, and for dipping raw vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks. Blue cheese has a stronger flavor, so it goes well with dishes that have bolder flavors, like spicy buffalo wings, steak, burgers, or sandwiches.
