Hot Chicken Wings

2 1/2 pounds chicken wings
Oil for frying (optional)
6 ounces Tabasco sauce or Texas Pete
1/2 cup melted butter
Cut the chicken wings in two at the joints. In a large frying pan or skillet; heat to 360°F enough oil (or shortening) to cover the chicken wings. Add the wings and fry until crisp, about 12-15 minutes. To bake, preheat the oven to 450ºF. Spread the chicken wings out on a baking sheet in one layer and bake 45 minutes. To make the sauce, combine the Hot Sauce or Tabasco and melted butter and blend thoroughly. As soon as the chicken wings are cooked, douse with the sauce, and serve immediately. Serve with celery sticks and ranch or bleu cheese dressing.