Ive been interested in food and cooking since I was a child. You can get frozen alligator meat online. If it is tough or chewy, it is not done. This is because they contain the highest level of fatty acids, which are essential for the body. How long does it take to cook alligator meat? NEW !!!! The frying method involves frying the alligator fillet in a mixture of salt, pepper and oil. Test the alligator by cutting into it with a knife and see if its easily breaking down. The ribs, nuggets and wings are a darker meat with a stronger flavor and a texture similar to pork. 3. Avoid overcrowding the oil with pieces of meat. This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff. Like most hunters, they deliver. Kung . Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Alligator Sauce Piquante Over Creamy Stone Ground Grits. Powered by the ESHA Research Database 2018, ESHA Research, Inc. All Rights Reserved, alligator meat, cut into bite-size pieces. There are a few key things to look for when cooking alligator meat. The alligator tail tastes very mild. You can also cook using boiling water, a microwave or an infrared oven. The only time it is not safe to eat catfish is when it is undercooked. Our tenderized fillets are unmatched in both tenderness and taste. Alligator loin: whole young tender alligator loins ready for the grill, blackened or cut, bread and fry to make your own "GATOR BITES" Alligator Fillet: 1 lb. The fish weighed an astonishing 162 pounds! How do you know when alligator is done cooking. if (d.getElementById(id)) return; Marinate the alligator steak for 2 to 3 hours. Curious? This will make for a better meal. Stir or whisk to distribute the pepper. There are many different types of cooking techniques. Oil extracts the essential oils from fresh herbs and peppers, while buttermilk doesn't. Repeat the process until all is done. Add to a large resealable bag the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. The process of cooking alligator fillets is a delicate one, so be careful not to overcook them. When it boils down to it, it basically tastes like the chicken of the swamp, hence the white meat reference. His company packaged the 1-pound bags of frozen alligator I bought at Rouse's Supermarkets for the video. Add the alligator tails to the egg mixture and toss to coat. Coat the alligator fillets in flour cornmeal or another type of breading. This will help to make the flavors more potent and keep the meat moist while it cooks on the grill. Wipe off the excess marinade and let the alligator steaks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. 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. Turn the heat off and pour enough stock in the pan to almost cover the steaks. Slice potatoes (do not peel) and make a layer of them on the bottom of the dish. 5. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. The best cooking time is usually around 4 hours, so make sure you check them regularly. In this video we go to New Orleans to meet a man who makes alligator fillets. Finally, cook your alligator meat over a low heat. This requires a bit of work, but the results are worth it. There are many factors to consider when making a decision about which animal to consume, but one that should be taken into account is their health. Keep an eye on the temperature of the oil, making sure the oil does not get too hot. Alligator gar can also be barbecued or roasted - prepare some fillets and get them to cook. based animals is poor compared to other forms of animal consumption. Boneless Turtle Meat 2 lb bag $69.99. There are mainly three methods, namely fried, boiled and grilled. 'http':'https';if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src=p+'://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js';fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document, 'script', 'twitter-wjs'); A tasty recipe for Fried Alligator, cajun-style! Wipe the buttermilk from the steaks and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. 1. It's available in a variety of cuts including tail fillets, ribs, nuggets and wings. 2. Next, layer the gator with bacon covering all parts with bacon except for the head. It can be cooked by different techniques including grilling, deep frying or baking. One is to avoid eating anything that can contain harmful bacteria, including meats and poultry. Continue to mix. The vinegar works to make the meat slightly more tender before it's placed in the oil to cook. Heat to 360 degrees F. Coat the alligator meat with the fish batter. The flesh should flake when gently pressed. Cooking alligator can be tricky, so it is important to pay close attention to the color and texture of the alligator to make sure it is cooked all the way through. It is a type of meat that is considered to be a delicacy in some parts of the world. One way to tell is to look at the color of the alligator. Leave in the fridge to marinate for at least 2 hours . The cut determines the cooking method. 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. Florida Alligator Meat is not only delicious but is low in fat and cholesterol and a wonderful source of protein. The frying method involves frying the alligator fillet in a mixture of salt, pepper and oil. Season the alligatorfillets with salt and pepper before cooking them. Boneless Turtle Meat 5 lb bag . Leave the better stuff for your more gourmet dishes. If it was longer than five feet, the meat will be tough. That isnt to say you wont be able to use it in your gator recipes. Spray all sides with Cooking Spray. The ice will slowly start to remove the skin. Meat was also found to be the most nutrient dense food out there. Donald Buckemeyer grills his alligator sausage at an LSU tailgate, Cochon's Fried Alligator with Chili Garlic Sauce (Photo by Chris Granger for Link Restaurant Group). 1. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. To prepare dipping sauce, mix together in a small bowl the mayonnaise, horseradish, brown mustard, and red wine vinegar. Try to put 5-6 pieces of meat and vegetables on every skewer. Rub the spice mixture onto the alligator fillets. Quick view. I tried to convince him to eat alligator fillet. First prepare your marinade by combining the chopped red chilli, light soy sauce, chopped garlic, grated ginger, cayenne, salt and pepper, and mixing well. The worlds top food is the best healthiest food, according to a study released Tuesday. Fry for 1 - 2 minutes or until crisp. Shake to coat. This makes the alligator fillet tender, and the process of marinating makes the alligator fillet savory and flavorsome. And of course, it always tastes great pan-seared or fried to a golden crisp! Season it immediately with salt and pepper. When you think of alligator fillet, you may think that its tough and chewy. packs (approximately 40 lbs.) After a fifteen-year career as a semi-professional football player, Chef decided to follow his passion for cooking and has never looked back. I hope youll check out my blog and my recipes, and I look forward to hearing from you! When it comes to eating clean, there are a few things to keep in mind. Other questions:subscriberservices@theadvocate.com. The alligator is done cooking when the inside is cooked all the way through. . Heat the grill to high heat and grill kabobs for 6 . Alligator tenderloin somewhat resembles veal and tastes like a cross between frog legs and turtle meat. Here's how to cook alligator fillets: 1. A four-ounce serving has 110 calories (20 from fat), 2 grams total fat, .5 grams saturated fat, 55 milligrams cholesterol, 55 milligrams sodium, nocarbohydrates and 24 grams of protein. Why not? 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. In fact, one of the best ways to cook it is to brine it. I believe that anyone can cook a delicious meal, no matter their skill level. Place the alligator fillets onto a baking sheet and bake for about 20 . If you let it sit for longer than 2 hours, the consistency of the meat might begin to change. first and foremost, alligator meat has high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which are important for overall health. Coat a large casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Squeeze off excess liquid from meat, and add one handful of meat to the resealable bag. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the meat, but it typically takes about 10 minutes to fry alligator meat. "The effect is a smoky taste outside and inside is true alligator," Sonnier said. It's similar to chicken, but it has that little seafood taste component. Whisk well. To each his own! But hey, there are people that eat the red meat. Season the alligatorfillets with salt and pepper before cooking them. His company also processes the occasional nuisance gator. Cut off the head and the tail, then gut and scale it. There are mainly three methods, namely fried, boiled and grilled. Directions. And the fat on alligator is outside the pieces, not striated throughout the meat like, for instance, beef or pork. Thread marinated alligator cubes onto skewers, alternating with vegetable or fruit cubes. Remove and drain on the prepared rack or paper towels. Stryjewski said the restaurant uses peanut oil for frying, but "lard works just as well.". Toss the meat with the seasoning and allow to marinate for up to 45 . Never leave a pan of oil or a grill unattended while you're cooking. Another way to tenderize alligator meat is to use a meat tenderizer. Don't drop any of the pieces of meat into the oil. Alligator meat is a popular dish in the southern United States. Cooking the kabobs for a total of 6 minutes will leave you with meat that is a medium level of doneness, and cooking for 8 minutes will produce medium-well meat. Add one cup of ice water to the mixture. If it's your first time purchasing alligator meat, look for cuts from the tail. You wont be disappointed! Remove the skin as soon as it loosens. Heat the barbecue to high hotness and barbecue kabobs for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once. The answer to this question depends on what youre looking for. Coat the tilapia fillets with the seasoning mixture well until fully covered. Unlike beef, though, which you can generally categorize as tender or tough, alligator meat has two levels of tenderness: tough and tougher. "It's kind of like a grouper cheek, a big piece of meat.". For a meat that is supposed to taste a lot like chicken, it's not always cheap, but it sure is popular. Most people will choose to cook the whole alligator. If it is cooked properly, the meat will be tender and juicy. Alligator meat is a common dish in the southern United States, but it can be tough and chewy if not cooked properly. The alligator fillet is a very lean cut of meat. Gator Burgers! Alligator fillets are a bit of a different beast when compared to fillets of more common fish. Oldie but goodie thank you for rocking with us we apprecia. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 2. Cover dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 50 minutes to one hour, until potatoes are tender. Season the alligator with kosher salt if you didn't use salt or salty ingredients in the marinade. If desired, remove foil for last 15 minutes so top can brown. 4. Remove meat, shake off excess flour, and set on a plate. Cooking alligator fillets can be a fun and easy experience if you follow these simple steps. Turn the steak over every 4 or 5 minutes so it cooks evenly on both sides. I cooked it together on the grill to give it a good flavor. Meat tenderizers are made of enzymes or acids that break down the proteins in meat, making it more tender. I hope youll check out my blog and my recipes, and I look forward to hearing from you! Heat a few tablespoons of oil or oil and butter in a Dutch oven or an oven-safe skillet or pan. Cover with a layer of diced onions and sprinkle with garlic and parsley. Alligators are a popular food choice for many people, but some may be confused by the term chewy. Is alligator meat really that chewier than other creatures meat? Sonnier has . Farm-raised alligators are smaller and less fatty than wild ones, Pearce said, adding, "Wild is still great. [4] 5. The wild season harvest is every September." They have a thick skin that allows them to sweat and protect them from the elements. Dip the alligator in the flour and shake off. Cooking alligator may be old hat for many home cooks, and it's quite apparentchefs are cooking it all over the place. Stir everything gently so you do not knock off the crispy exterior. It is also much easier to slice if it is boiled first. This will give them a nice and zesty flavor. Buttermilk is a better tenderizer than acid, but you have more flavoring options . Alligator Tenderloins are a great addition to a traditional gumbo recipe as well! "You can stew it, or take the center cut of tail and grill it up like chicken, or definitely fry it.". Preheat the grill to 400F. Add Kosher or sea salt, brown sugar and white sugar to the water in the cooler and let the gator sit in the brine for 16 hours. In fact, if you do soak alligator meat, you may end up washing away some of the flavor. Here are some tips to help you cook them perfectly: Alligator fillets can take anywhere from minutes to hours to cook evenly, depending on their thickness and size. Another is to cook all meat thoroughly before eating it, as this will help remove any bacteria that may be present. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Cut alligator into 1-inch chunks and season with salt and pepper. 6. First, season the chops on both sides with salt and pepper. In fact, its been legal to do so for about 100 years. The process of brining involves submerging the alligator in a solution of saltwater, sugar, and spices. The legs, which chef Greg Sonnier smokes at Kingfish as gator "wings" with a tomato gastrique, are red meat and not as tender, Pearce said. You can cook tough alligator steaks, such as fillets, in a pan, but tougher cuts, such as sirloin, flank and tail, need to be braised. However, some have argued that alligator meat may not be as healthy as advertised. Others may choose to eat chicken or turkey because they are considered healthier options. Sonnier has made many alligator dishes in his career. After all, it wouldnt be considered Cajun without a kick. Tail meat is a choice cut of white meat that is mild in flavor with a texture similar to veal. Rub the mixture all over the alligator fillet. "Turtle meat is more similar to beef or venison. This will help you determine whether or not its at its most done. See recipe, cuts, tips and tricks, sauce picante for our "In Judy's Kitchen" video, Archbishop Gregory Aymond's position that alligator counts asseafood position, How to wrestle alligator meat into beef, pork, chicken, turtle recipes, 3-course interview: cooking alligator with Chef Nathan Richard, How to butcher an alligator: Kingfish chef demonstrates, 1/4 cup packed chopped mint and Italian parsley leaves, 1 canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced, 1 tablespoon Heavenly Chef brand chili garlic sauce. Hola T&LeeFam! 32. And of course, it always tastes great pan-seared or fried to a golden crisp! Alligator fleas lemon juice capers butter kumquat olive oil white wine chicken broth. You should set aside about half of the mixture to use for basting when the kabobs are on the grill. The alligator should be cut into pieces after boiling. The rest of the alligator can then be removed from the bone. The alligator is very lean so you need to make sure to remove the fat from it. Prep Time: 5 minutes. Sep 18, 2010. Grilled alligator is cooked by applying a light coating of oil and grilling on a grill or hot pan. Im here to talk about food and cooking, and to share some of my favorite recipes with you all! You can also use a wide array of acids, such as Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice or any vinegar, with an oil-based marinade. Combine the flour and cornstarch in a mixing bowl. Their diet consists mostly of fish, but they will also eat small mammals, birds, and reptiles. 4 alligator fillets. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Out of stock. Grey101. Today, milk processors have made it easier to process milk, so there is no need to soak alligators in milk. Just like when you slow-cook a roast, poaching fish causes the flesh to flake away from the bones. 1. The study, which was conducted by the World Health Organization, found that foods with healthy fats and fibers are the healthiest among all foods. I specialize in healthy, flavorful recipes that are easy to make at home. Dip the floured alligator in buttermilk and remove with a slotted spoon, allowing as much buttermilk as possible to drip off. By Ace Champion | If you are new, we're so glad you joined the family! Eating alligator meat is not typically seen as being healthy, but there are some benefits to consideration if you decide to do so. Add cup of blackened seasoning to the melted butter and stir to combine. Alligator Legs: Tender, lean, 2 lb. When the oil is ready, add the alligator pieces to the skillet in batches, shaking off any excess flour before adding them to the oil and being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Andrews received formal training at Le Cordon Bleu. use plenty of salt and pepper to season the meat as needed. If you have extra kabobs, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1 week. Demand is pushing the wholesale price of alligator meat to $12 to $15 a pound.. Season the alligator with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Make a sauce using the stock and drippings in the pan while the steaks rest, if desired. If you want to make your own dipping sauces for a gourmet meal, you can mix a simply spicy mayo or. Add the eggs and water to a separate shallow bowl. Drain the fried gator on a rack or a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the alligator until it is golden brown and crispy. What Temperature Should You Cook Chicken? Ive been cooking professionally for about 10 years now, and Ive loved every minute of it! If you're new to gator, don't be intimidated it tastes like chicken! Im here to help you learn how to cook, and to show you that its not as difficult as you might think! Cook the fillets for 5 to 8 minutes on each side, making sure they are grilled all the way through. Besides the monstrous alligator gar and little florida gar, which are restricted to a few small areas of the country, anglers can pursue longnose, shortnose and spotted . But how do you know when alligator meat is done? Its important to cook alligator fillet at a low temperature, to avoid overcooking the meat and drying it out. It requires high amounts of fat, so it needs to be cooked well. Welcome back to our Channel! !function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],p=/^http:/.test(d.location)? If you've ever wondered how to cook alligator but didn't know where to begin, this is for you. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd., all rights reserved. Prepare a rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain the alligator. Marinate the alligator steak for 2 to 3 hours. It's also super juice and tender. Preheat your pit to 250. We have the video right here! Alligators have a lot of tough connective tissue, so it can take some time for the meat to become tender. Place the alligator in a medium bowl and season with the cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and hot sauce, and toss to coat evenly. There are several ways to tenderize alligator meat, but the most common is to marinate it in a mixture of acidic ingredients such as lime juice, vinegar, or citrus fruits. This will help ensure that they will cook evenly and not get too tough or dry. Cover and allow marinating for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. Continue to 6 of 8 below. You can grill them with the hood of the grill up or down. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption. We find out his secrets for cooking alligator and how to clean it before cooking. Join Where NOLA Eats, the hub for food and dining coverage in New Orleans. If desired, sprinkle top with shredded cheese after baking. Microwave half a cup of butter for 30 seconds. Alligators are a common sight in the southern United States, and many people may wonder why they are often seen soaking in milk. Combine the flour and pepper in a separate bowl. There are a few different ways to cook alligator meat, but the most common way is to fry it. 1 hr. A lot of alligator recipes calls for marinades, but that's not really necessary for tender alligator tail meat. can Rotel tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; Instructions . In Florida, its legal to catch and eat an alligator. His number one tip for cooking alligator tail: Don't cook it too long, he said.