Alligator

Dive into the culinary adventure of preparing crispy fried alligator, a true Southern delicacy that's surprisingly easy to make at home! This recipe transforms tender bite-sized pieces of marinated alligator meat into golden, crunchy morsels by soaking them in a tangy buttermilk and hot sauce blend, followed by a flavorful coating of seasoned flour and cornmeal. Fried to perfection in hot oil, the alligator pieces boast a satisfying crunch with a mild, slightly gamey flavor that's sure to intrigue and delight. Serve these crispy bites with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite zesty dipping sauce for a unique appetizer or party snack. Perfect for adventurous food lovers, this alligator recipe brings bold, regional flavors straight to your kitchen.

Nutriscore Rating: 58/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound alligator meat (bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce.

Step 2

Add the alligator meat to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize and infuse flavor.

Step 3

In a large resealable plastic bag or mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Step 4

Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Step 5

Remove the alligator pieces from the buttermilk and let the excess liquid drip off.

Step 6

One at a time, coat the alligator pieces in the dry flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 7

Working in batches, carefully place the coated alligator pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 8

Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried alligator from the oil. Place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 9

Repeat the process with the remaining alligator pieces.

Step 10

Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side and your favorite dipping sauce, like remoulade or spicy mayo.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2253.4 grams (2253.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	10205

Total Fat 985.00g	1263%
Saturated Fat 148.40g	742%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.00g
Cholesterol 401mg	134%
Sodium 3908mg	170%
Total Carbohydrate 280.90g	102%
Dietary Fiber 19.90g	71%
Total Sugars 25.70g
Protein 161.00g	322%

Vitamin D 254IU	1269%
Calcium 661mg	51%
Iron 20mg	112%
Potassium 2382mg	51%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 83.4%

Protein: 6.1%

Carbs: 10.6%