Sink your teeth into the bold flavors of "Gator Bait," a mouthwatering Southern-inspired appetizer that puts a unique twist on fried bites. Featuring tender, marinated alligator meat coated in a perfectly seasoned flour-cornmeal blend, these crispy morsels are fried to golden perfection. Infused with a kick of cayenne and garlic, each bite is bursting with flavor and pairs beautifully with the zesty homemade dipping sauce made with ranch, sriracha, and a touch of fresh lemon juice. Quick to prepare and irresistibly crunchy, this recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters or anyone looking to try a taste of authentic Southern cuisine. Serve it up as a fun party snack or a unique starter for your next gathering! Keywords: fried alligator recipe, Southern appetizer, crispy bites, unique snacks, dipping sauce.
Cut the alligator meat into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size.
In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the alligator meat, ensuring it is fully submerged, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the alligator bites from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Carefully drop the coated alligator pieces into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, sriracha sauce, and lemon juice to create a zesty dipping sauce.
Serve the fried alligator bites warm with the dipping sauce on the side and enjoy!
Calories |
9585 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 911.2 g | 1168% | |
| Saturated Fat | 133.6 g | 668% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 538.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 361 mg | 120% | |
| Sodium | 4912 mg | 214% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 275.1 g | 100% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.1 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.7 g | ||
| Protein | 171.0 g | 342% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.2 mcg | 16% | |
| Calcium | 448 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 19.8 mg | 110% | |
| Potassium | 1875 mg | 40% | |
*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.