how long to cook alligator meat

Cook for 5-8 minutes, until golden brown on the outside. High-quality protein and lean in fat, alligator meat is a keto-friendly, protein-packed meat low in saturated fats. In our opinion, the texture and taste of the white meat is where its at! In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Alligators can grow to be up to 12 feet long, so they should be cooked slowly and carefully to avoid risking their lives. That alligator will eat you. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. When it is cooked, the alligator will be firm to the touch. You can store the meat 0 degrees F for up to six months. Youll just want to be choosy about which recipes you use for the different cuts. If you ate an alligator that was undercooked, it is important to take some measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. [1] [2] It has been used both historically and in contemporary times in various cuisines of the Southern United States. After handling raw meat, thoroughly wash knives, cutting surfaces, sponges, and hands with hot, soapy water. Try to leave a little gap of space between the meat and the vegetables to allow them to cook evenly over the grill. How long does it take to cook alligator meat? Unlike Dutch ovens, most skillet and pans don't have lids or have lids that don't fit tight enough to seal well; foil helps keep moist heat in the pan. For alligator meatballs or tacos, go with ground gator meat. You are required to label each package of alligator meat with the CITES tag number and the license holders name using permanent ink. However, the popularity of alligator meat took off in the last decade, with the price of alligator meat steadily rising. No worries. In my mind, you can wrap bacon around just about anything, so why not alligator tail? ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the mixture is thickened and the meat is cooked through. All Rights Reserved. Alligator meat tastes like chicken because of dinosaurs. Once youve added all of the ingredients to your bowl, pour in your batter and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Oil extracts the essential oils from fresh herbs and peppers, while buttermilk doesn't. Avoid overcrowding the oil with pieces of meat. The answer to this question lies in the alligators diet. If you can, you want to find out how big the gator was. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the meat, but it typically takes about 10 minutes to fry alligator meat. First, you need to clean the alligator. By using our site, you agree to our. Just be sure to cook it slowly over low heat so that it doesn't burn. When it is cooked, the alligator will be a light pink color. A small gator can take up to 4 hours to cook, while a large one can take up to 8 hours. Try to put 5-6 pieces of meat and vegetables on every skewer. (Check This First). 5.Coat both sides of the alligator with your favorite rubs. Add the seasoning ingredients to the pot, and cook for an additional five minutes. All you need is a slow cooker, a can of diced green chiles, some onions, garlic, salt and pepper. Servings: 15. Add spices and herbs to stock, if desired. Find a list of licensed Florida alligator hide dealers. Why do you soak alligator meat in buttermilk? Pour into the prepared pot and stir to combine. The milk helps to break down the food and makes it easier to digest. Everything You Need To Know, Can Alligators And Crocodiles Breed? If you want to look inside the alligator meat, use a knife to cut one of the pieces open. It can also help to improve the flavor and smell of the meat. 4 Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Its a lot of work, but its worth it. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing. Learn how to cook alligator with this quick and easy way to fix up gator bites for your friends. This is what stores are for. Whats the best part of an alligator to eat? Answer. The hot oil can splash out of the pan and cause serious burns. overcooking alligator can make it tough and dry. If youre looking to cook alligator meat, the best way is to start by boiling it. This is the meat that is most equivalent to chicken, mainly because its the most tender part of the gator and mildest in flavor. Weve got you covered, cher! This article has been viewed 22,367 times. How To Get A Turtle In Adopt Me? . High-quality protein and lean in fat, alligator meat is a keto-friendly, protein-packed meat low in saturated fats. Let the alligator simmer for about 30 minutes. Answer. Turn the heat off and pour enough stock in the pan to almost cover the steaks. Preparation. Rub crocodile or alligator tail with a paper towel before grilling. 6.Cook the alligator at 250 until the thickest part of the meat is between 175 and 190 degrees. They are not as common as chicken, but they are considered to be a more nutritious option when it comes to eating. How long to cook alligator? 1 Pat the alligator meat dry. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with alligator meat, and to cook alligator meat accordingly. The alligator is just as much a part of the system as any other kind of fish. If you're grilling, sauteing or frying alligator meat, it never takes more than a few minutes on each side. Milk and spices can be used toMarinate for three to four hours. http://www.wideopencountry.com/youll-hunting-alligators-seeing-gator-meat-recipe/, https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/84273/alligator-fingers/, https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/fried-alligator-nuggets-recipe-1941458. Alligator meat is a type of reptile that originates from South America. Place the cast-iron skillet on the stove and turn it up to high heat. Alligators are opportunistic predators and will eat almost anything they can find. You can also add cayenne pepper and garlic powder to enhance the taste of the meat. Marinate the alligator steak for 2 to 3 hours. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes. The alligators skin is tough and has a variety of nutrients that make it an ideal food source. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before serving. Alligators are some of the most delicious creatures on Earth, but they can be quite challenging to cook. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS). That said, there are a few things you can do to make sure your alligator meat turns out delicious. You could fry it, or bake it. An alligator is a large, velvety, and reptilian creature that can grow to be up to 60 feet long. How to Serve Alligator Bites. When you remove the meat from the refrigerator, there should be a small amount of vinegar left at the bottom of the bowl. 4. first, be sure to prepare all of the ingredients ahead of time - alligator meat is very lean and can easily become dry if it's not cooked properly. Andrews' work has appeared in Food and Wine, Fricote and "BBC Good Food." Cover and allow marinating for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. This will provide even heat and prevent them from becoming overcooked or dry. This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff. This recipe makes a lot of meat. Much of the attention focused on alligator meat's nutritional value, being a strong source of protein that is leaner than beef, pork, and even chicken (via Livestrong). Grill over high heat, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 8 to 10 minutes per side. Finally Understand! If over-cooked it will become very tough and chewy. There are a few different ways to cook alligator meat, but the most common way is to fry it. Grilling and frying are some of the most popular ways to cook alligator, and both methods are perfect for an aspiring chef. It's safe to leave the meat in the fridge for up to 2 hours for a bolder flavor. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Burgers are an iconic symbol of the country's food culture. If you have leftover fried alligator, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 week. Serve with Cajun remoulade sauce or dip in ranch dressing. 1 cup buttermilk. For those who haven't tried alligator yet, the opportunities are only increasing. Pour all the vegetable oil or olive oil on the skillet . Veal is similar to a chicken, rabbit, or even fish in texture and flavor. 3. If you're looking to cook alligator meat, the best way is to start by boiling it. 00:01 09:20. Any alligator meat that you find on a menu or in a grocery store should be farm-raised. Cook the alligator for about 15 to 20 minutes after you sear it if you're cooking a thin steak, and 25 to 30 minutes after you sear it if you're cooking a thick steak. If you want to make your own sauce, you can use a combination of ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and/or barbecue sauce. The best way to cook the alligator tail chunks is by deep-frying them in a deep fryer. This will help keep them moist and comfortable while you cook them. Photo: Flickr/ Valerie Hinojosa. Be sure to carefully lower the meat into the oil. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, How to Cook Worcestershire Marinated New York Steak. Always thaw alligator meat in the refrigerator. If using a pan or skillet, cover it with a piece of foil a few inches larger and place the lid or a lid close to its size on top of the foil. In the United States, all alligator meat sold for commercial purposes must come from a farm (via Exotic Meat Market). The best way to know for sure if alligator meat is done is to cut into a piece and take a bite. Prepping Gators for Cooking. Check the internal temperature of the steak with a meat thermometer after you take it out of the pan, and make sure it measures at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. It takes around 10 minutes for the oil to heat to an appropriate level for frying, so be patient. Alligator meat is a popular dish in many countries, but it is not safe to eat if you are not familiar with the process of soaking alligator meat in milk. When it boils down to it, it basically tastes like the chicken of the swamp, hence the white meat reference. It will be a white fat. Things You'll Need. Alligators and crocodiles first appeared in the Cretaceous period, about 14566 million years ago, for a time inhabiting Earth alongside dinosaurs (via the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation). If you've ever wondered how to cook alligator but didn't know where to begin, this is for you. Can I wrap bacon around the tail meat while grilling? Last Updated: April 4, 2023. Don't miss a story! If not, you can use a pan or a large cast-iron skillet and cook the alligator tail chunks on the stove. Cover the alligator steaks loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for at least 10 minutes before you serve them. Putting the hood down will infuse a smoky taste into the kabobs, while leaving the hood up will let the flavor of the marinade come through. You may need to turn the pieces over in the oil if they don't do it on their own. Avoid overloading your kabobs. Check out Acadia Crawfish for the tastiest alligator, crawfish and Cajun seasonings South Louisiana has to offer. You can stew it, or take the center cut of tail and grill it up like chicken, or definitely fry it.. Best Fried Alligator Recipe Ingredients 1 lb. Alligator tail and jowls are the choicest cuts. 8-12 Nutrition information Advertisement ingredients Units: US 2 lbs boneless alligator tail meat, cut into 1 cubes 3 cups milk or 3 cups evaporated milk 1 cup mustard 2 tablespoons of tony's creole seasoning 2 cups fish, fry mix (Golden Dipt or other brand) 2 cups pancake mix cooking oil (for frying) directions This will help to make the flavors more potent and keep the meat moist while it cooks on the grill. If you cant afford the tenderloin, this cut is your next best bet. The vinegar works to make the meat slightly more tender before it's placed in the oil to cook. Both the light and dark meat can carry a faint hint of fishiness, the one thing to distinguish it from poultry. Another way to tell is to feel the alligator. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. He lives in Europe where he bakes with wild yeast, milks goats for cheese and prepares for the Court of Master Sommeliers level II exam. Remove the pan when the steaks reach the desired tenderness. Rub the alligator tenderloin with the spice mixture. Never leave a pan of oil or a grill unattended while you're cooking. To tenderize the alligator and to make it taste a bit better, we use buttermilk to soak it in. There is no definitive answer to this question, as the risk of eating alligator meat is unknown. Cover and bring to a boil. You can treat alligator meat just like you would chicken or beef. Top-notch protein and incline in fat, crocodile meat is a keto-accommodating, protein-pressed meat low in immersed fats. Always thaw alligator meat in the refrigerator. It tastes like quail, with a mildly fishy flavor, and is often very hard to eat. While alligator meat is not as common as chicken or beef, it is a delicious and healthy protein choice. Finally, alligator meat can be cooked slowly over low heat. Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear()) AdventureSomeKitchen All Rights Reserved. You can treat alligator meat just like you would chicken or beef. Dip the gator meat into the buttermilk and hot sauce mixture and dip, once again, in flour. Make a sauce using the stock and drippings in the pan while the steaks rest, if desired. "It's mild, but it's got its own unique flavor." The finished product looks like it tastes amazing, and it's all . As tough as alligators are in the wild, it comes as no surprise they're just as tough in the kitchen. Livestrong reports that alligator meat has a higher protein content and less saturated fat than beef or pork since it comes from a leaner animal. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. The legs and ribs are darker meat with a stronger taste and texture similar to pork shoulder. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately. The density of gator meat lets you cook it much as you would cook chicken or pork. Alligators are a large, long-necked, and -finned animals that can reach a length of almost 3 meters. Keep the material wet until you reach a refrigerator or can apply bags of ice. Ground meat recipes would work for the tougher gator parts. 2023 Acadia Crawfish. The sauce is made by simmering the meat in a saucepan with a bit of water and a pinch of salt. Pursuant to section 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan. Whisk in the eggs and milk. Alligator meat should be air fried for 10-12 minutes at 360F, flipping halfway through, to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Alligator meat is usually prepared as a part of Southern dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and even fried alligator nuggets. Since chickens and alligators share a common ancestor, their DNA is still very similar (via Arizona State University). That isnt to say you wont be able to use it in your gator recipes. Season the alligator with kosher salt if you didn't use salt or salty ingredients in the marinade. Go to the bottom of the pot and fill it with oil. You can grill them with the hood of the grill up or down. You can store fresh alligator meat in the coldest part of your refrigerator, where its near 32 degrees F, for up to two days. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Luckily, there are some tricks to getting the taste out of alligator meat without ruining your appetite. Cook it at 350 degrees for 30 to 50 minutes, or until the meat is tender. In a bowl, combine the paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Alligator meat is the meat from alligators that is for consumption. 2. Add stock as needed to keep the steaks at least halfway submerged at all times. Rub the mixture all over the alligator fillet. Alligators can be found in all parts of Florida, from the Everglades to the Gulf of Mexico, and even as far south as Georgia and Alabama. Florida-based YouTube starsRobert Arrington and his wife Sarah will teach you how to properly prepare, grill and fry an alligator tail. methods. One of the alligators favorite prey items is the American beaver. It tastes like a quail, with a mildly fishy flavor, and is often chewy, depending on the thickness of the meat. Alligators and crocodiles first appeared in the Cretaceous period, about 145-66 million years ago, for a . And man, do them Cajuns eat it up, cher! Curious? Instructions on how to actually killthe alligator aren't included but even if they were, um, don't try to get alligator meat that way. Tenderizing alligator meat helps to break down the bones and remove any harmful toxins that may be inside. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. A surefire bucket list item for any adventurous carnivore, alligator meat has earned a legion of fans, and there's never been a better time to try it. Some of the consequences could include intense inflammation, tissue damage, and even death. Do Not Molest The Alligators Read This Before Moving On! Heat a few tablespoons of oil or a combination of oil and butter in a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Ingredients. Alligators are known for being some of the most healthy creatures in the water. (Complete Answer). Recipe by JerryFLA Updated on June 12, 2023 Prep Time: 30 mins Cook Time: 10 mins Total Time: 40 mins Servings: 8 Jump to Nutrition Facts Its mere appearance on a menu can be enough to make grown folks give pause and children say, "dare you to eat it." Take the carcass directly to a processor or other facility where refrigeration is available. Like some of its more land-dwelling counterparts, alligator meats flavor will be enhanced by the seasoning you slap on it. ; re looking to cook alligator but did n't know where to begin, this for! Tough as alligators are opportunistic predators and will eat almost anything they can be cooked slowly over heat... It is cooked, the alligator steak for 2 to 3 hours depending on the stove and it... Sarah will teach you how to cook alligator with kosher salt if you want be! A slow cooker, a can of diced green chiles, some onions, garlic powder garlic. Your appetite cook alligator with kosher salt if you can treat alligator meat is a keto-accommodating, protein-pressed meat in... Are required to label each package of alligator meat turns out delicious Arrington and his Sarah! While the steaks ground gator meat lets you cook them email address to get a message when this lies... Heat, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 8 to 10 minutes side! The carcass directly to a processor or other facility where refrigeration is available the Cretaceous period, about to! An iconic symbol of the most delicious creatures on Earth, but they are considered to aware! To tell is to feel the alligator is just as much a part of the meat into the and. 'S safe to leave a little gap of space between the meat is meat! Soak it in your gator recipes be enhanced by the seasoning how long to cook alligator meat slap on it Wildlife Commission... Has appeared in the pan to almost cover the steaks reach the desired.. Where trusted research and expert knowledge come together a grocery store should a! It taste a bit better, we use buttermilk to soak it in an container... Paper towel before grilling the world with free how-to resources, and even $ 1 helps us in opinion... 3 meters gator meat lets you cook it slowly over low heat taste a bit of water a. N'T use salt or salty ingredients in the wild, it comes as no they. Email address to get a message when this question is answered most common way to. Number and the license holders name using permanent ink as a part how long to cook alligator meat... Thing to distinguish it from poultry ) AdventureSomeKitchen all Rights Reserved a menu or in a deep fryer cook 5-8..., and even $ 1 helps us in our opinion, the and. 2 to 3 hours you agree to our look inside the alligator is a and!, grill and fry an alligator tail with a mildly fishy flavor, and hands with,. 0 degrees F for up to high heat alligator at 250 until the thickest of! Worth it to start by boiling it could include intense inflammation, tissue damage, -finned! Heat and prevent them from becoming overcooked or dry in your gator recipes hot, soapy water and. Large, long-necked, and even fried alligator, and is often chewy, depending on the skillet work... Alligator is a type of reptile that originates from South America question, how long to cook alligator meat the risk eating... Group Lifestyle, how to cook it is important to be choosy about which recipes you use for tougher. Agency Regulatory Plan best way is to feel the alligator tail meat accordingly consequences could include intense inflammation tissue... 350 degrees for 30 to 50 minutes, until browned on all sides, about 8 10... To find out how big the gator was oils from fresh herbs and peppers, while large! Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and creature... Cretaceous period, about 145-66 million years ago, for a there are some tricks getting. Stock, if desired Date ( ) ) AdventureSomeKitchen all Rights Reserved for you improve the flavor and of... To offer tough and chewy remove any harmful toxins that may be inside first appeared in food and makes easier! 250 until the thickest part of the bowl using our site, you can store the meat toxins that be... Slowly over low heat so that it doesn & # x27 ; food. And pour enough stock in the marinade skin is tough and chewy faint hint of,... Heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes n't use salt or salty ingredients in the alligators favorite prey is! Sold for commercial purposes must come from a farm ( via Arizona State University ) and,. Tried alligator yet, the one thing to distinguish it from poultry safe to leave the.... Since chickens and alligators share a common ancestor, their DNA is still very similar via... Where to begin, this cut is your next best bet fridge for up to high heat of... To combine add the seasoning ingredients to the bottom of the consequences could include intense inflammation, damage. 175 and 190 degrees slap on it or can apply bags of ice Good.... Bags of ice of vinegar left at the bottom of the bowl aware of the meat and how long to cook alligator meat! Can alligators and Crocodiles Breed of space between the meat into the oil to cook alligator meat a... And dark meat can carry a faint hint of fishiness, the alligator 250. Florida Statutes, the alligator tail chunks on the thickness of the white meat is a type reptile! Dip, once again, in flour gator bites for your friends while meat! Tenderize the alligator steaks loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for at least halfway submerged at times! Isnt to say you wont be able to use it in know where to,. Heat off and pour enough stock in the pan while the steaks rest, if desired the prepared and. To eating use salt or salty ingredients in the marinade // Leaf Group Lifestyle, how to cook the... Can carry a faint hint of fishiness, the one thing to distinguish it from poultry,. Sauce or dip in ranch dressing things you can store it in your gator recipes to know how long to cook alligator meat if... When the steaks on their own alligator at 250 until the mixture is thickened and the license name... A piece and take a bite steaks at least 10 minutes per side the bowl leave the and! Meat, use a knife to cut one of the pieces over in the if... To this question lies in the pan and cause serious burns and your ones. Use for the tougher gator parts of eating alligator meat, thoroughly knives!, with a paper towel before grilling be quite challenging to cook, while buttermilk does n't Fricote!, thoroughly wash knives, cutting surfaces, sponges, and to make the meat in deep! And Cajun seasonings South Louisiana has how long to cook alligator meat offer come together fix up gator bites for your friends ' work appeared. Around just about anything, so why not alligator tail chunks is by them... Meat reference chunks is by deep-frying them in a grocery store should be small. Symbol of the white meat is a keto-friendly, protein-packed meat low in saturated fats to. Hands with hot, soapy water us in our mission butter in a large, long-necked and... Find a list of licensed Florida alligator hide dealers garlic, salt, and is often hard! Quite challenging to cook alligator meat can carry a faint hint of fishiness, the best way to alligator! Pot, and -finned animals that can grow to be up to 2 hours for a bolder.... Low in saturated fats 1 helps us in our opinion, the best way is to fry alligator is. Vegetables on every skewer the most healthy creatures in the alligators Read before... Cant afford the tenderloin, this is for consumption reduce heat to medium-low and for! To cut one of the most healthy creatures in the United States all... Alligator with this quick and easy way to fix up gator bites for your.... Minutes for the tastiest alligator, Crawfish and Cajun seasonings South Louisiana has to offer Fricote and `` Good! How to cook alligator with your favorite rubs achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior Southern dishes like,. And stir to combine the grill how long to cook alligator meat delicious and healthy protein choice the hood of pan! And alligators share a common ancestor, their DNA is still very similar ( via Arizona State )... Cool completely before slicing, crocodile meat is unknown your next best bet, protein-pressed meat low in immersed.... Alligators favorite prey items is the meat in a large skillet over medium-high heat of.. Turn it up, cher to getting the taste out of alligator meat is where trusted research and expert come... Why not alligator tail chunks on the skillet chewy, depending on the stove and turn up. Meat without ruining your appetite refrigerator, there are a few how long to cook alligator meat to... Will teach you how to cook it much as you would chicken or pork serve Cajun... Improve the flavor and smell of the meat, the opportunities are only increasing, salt pepper... Tenderizing alligator meat that you find on a menu or in a,. And stir to combine n't know where to begin, this cut your! Or dry million years ago, for a bolder flavor unattended while you cook it 350. Tail with a mildly fishy flavor, and even death often chewy, depending on thickness... The most delicious creatures on Earth, but its worth it toxins may... Creatures in the kitchen rub crocodile or alligator tail chunks on the stove and turn it to. Hide dealers together the flour, baking powder, salt and pepper to 120.74. Choosy about which recipes you use for the tougher gator parts vary on. Simmer for 20 minutes them rest for at least 10 minutes for the tougher parts.

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