The Decatur Gator

Dive into Southern charm with "The Decatur Gator," a bold and flavorful po' boy-style sandwich that brings the unique taste of marinated and crispy fried alligator to your table. This recipe starts with tender alligator meat soaked in a tangy buttermilk and hot sauce marinade, then coated in a spiced flour and cornmeal blend for the perfect golden crunch. Layered on a freshly toasted French bread roll with creamy remoulade sauce, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and zesty pickles, this sandwich is a delightful blend of textures and bold Cajun-inspired flavors. Perfect for adventurous foodies and lovers of Southern cuisine, The Decatur Gator is a must-try dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Pair it with your favorite side dish to complete the ultimate comfort meal!

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound alligator meat (cubed)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 4 pieces French bread or hoagie rolls
• 0.5 cup remoulade sauce
• 4 pieces lettuce leaves
• 1 whole tomato (sliced)
• 0.25 cup pickles (sliced)

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the alligator meat and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate.

Step 2

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 3

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Step 4

Remove the alligator meat from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Coat each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Step 5

Fry the coated alligator pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 6

Slice the French bread or hoagie rolls open lengthwise. Spread a generous layer of remoulade sauce on the inside of each roll.

Step 7

Assemble the sandwiches by layering the fried alligator, lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickles inside the bread.

Step 8

Serve immediately and enjoy your Southern-inspired Decatur Gator sandwiches!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2351.2 grams (2351.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	9683

Total Fat 846.30g	1085%
Saturated Fat 128.30g	642%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.50g
Cholesterol 322mg	107%
Sodium 6765mg	294%
Total Carbohydrate 395.70g	144%
Dietary Fiber 22.10g	79%
Total Sugars 26.90g
Protein 196.00g	392%

Vitamin D 127IU	635%
Calcium 459mg	35%
Iron 30mg	167%
Potassium 2938mg	63%

*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: 76.3%

Protein: 7.9%

Carbs: 15.9%