how to cook alligator fillets

It adapts to many types of seasonings and the flaky, white meat can substitute for veal, seafood, or chicken in many recipes. The frying method involves frying the alligator fillet in a mixture of salt, pepper and oil. Im Brian Danny Max, a chef and a writer at cookingtom.com. It is best cooked by grilling. The alligator is very lean so you need to make sure to remove the fat from it. When the batter turns a golden brown and the meat floats to the top of the oil, the alligator is cooked thoroughly! Continue to mix. Enjoy! and using both hands, blend the ingredients well. 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. It's not mixed with something else.". . For another, alligator fillets are so large that they require a large cooking surface. It will also get a nice, golden-brown color. You can also use a wide array of acids, such as Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice or any vinegar, with an oil-based marinade. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of potatoes. 2. Meat consumption has increased significantly in the last few decades, and with that, the demand for meat. Season it immediately with salt and pepper. Place alligator meat in a medium bowl, and mix with vinegar, salt, and pepper. After all, it wouldnt be considered Cajun without a kick. My parents are both great cooks, and they taught me a lot about the kitchen. ", At the restaurant, Sonnier cooks Louisiana alligator bone-in legs, brand name Country Boy Gator, labeled a Certified Cajun product and subtitled "Cajun Swamp Chicken.". There are many different ways to cook an alligator, but the most popular is to fry it. Another is to cook all meat thoroughly before eating it, as this will help remove any bacteria that may be present. "I think one reason people like it is that it's its own form. 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. packs (approximately 40 lbs.) Lay the alligator steaks in the pan, giving each steak at least 1/2 inch of space. How to Cook Bone-In Pork Strips in the Grilling a Top Sirloin Filet in a Cast How to Sear Tenderloin Steak and Cook A.J. Out of stock. Wipe the buttermilk from the steaks and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If youre looking to lose weight or simply want to eat more healthily, there are a number of options available to you each day. Some people believe that the meat from animals such as cows, pigs, and chickens is the unhealthiest because of their high levels of cholesterol and saturated fat, respectively. Cut the steaks across the grain to make them easier to chew. The belly, which is the part of the cut that contains the fat, is cut into bite-sized portions. ** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Place the alligator fillet on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until it is cooked through. This gives you time to wash some veggies, coat in olive oil, salt & black pepper to throw on the grill with the garfish. Season to taste with the sugar, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Pour oil into a large skillet to a depth of 1 inch, and heat over a medium-high flame. Sign up for daily stories delivered to your inbox. 2. Cooking Spray. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Product Info. In another bowl add the flour and season with some cajun seasoning as well. You can handle and treat that like a good piece of meat, even grill it.". Leave the better stuff for your more gourmet dishes. Each September, chef Nathan Richard joins his friends to hunt alligator in the swamps around Lafourche Parish. The alligator is a real American legend, and almost every state has its own alligator restaurant. Join Where NOLA Eats, the hub for food and dining coverage in New Orleans. Grey101. If you let it sit for longer than 2 hours, the consistency of the meat might begin to change. His company also processes the occasional nuisance gator. Grilled alligator is more popular because of the meats texture. Check the steaks' internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure they reach 165 degrees before serving. And even though there are recipes for cooking alligator fillets, there are also many other issues that need to be considered before trying this approach. Braise the alligator steaks in the oven for 1 hour and turn them over. I hope youll check out my blog and my recipes, and I look forward to hearing from you! Like some of its more land-dwelling counterparts, alligator meat's . Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. An entire stick of butter fried in a pan with some garlic is all you need to coat the gator tail in flavoring before you add some salt and pepper and onions, and then take it to the grill for the . Grill the alligator for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. This will also help to tenderize the meat. Avoid overcrowding the oil with pieces of meat. This is the meat that is most equivalent to chicken, mainly because its the most tender part of the gator and mildest in flavor. There are various cooking methods that you can use to cook alligator. Most people will choose to cook the whole alligator. 2023 Acadia Crawfish. Hello, Louisiana: How do you cook and eat alligator? You will have more of the Chili Garlic Mayo than you need for this recipe. 4. When oil is hot, place meat pieces into oil, being careful not to overcrowd. Marinate the alligator steak for 2 to 3 hours. The tenderloin is the part of alligator that people compare to chicken. You can also cook alligator steaks on the grill. You can order gator meat online. This will help you determine whether or not its at its most done. Alligator meat is typically slightly salty and has a distinctive flavor. It's really that simple. Heat the grill to high heat and grill kabobs for 6 . If you've ever wondered how to cook alligator but didn't know where to begin, this is for you. Heat oil in a heavy cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven to 350 degrees. This can be done by placing it in a large pot of water and boiling it for about an hour. Blackened Louisiana Alligator Slider. Remove the alligator from the marinade and thread onto skewers. can Rotel tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; Instructions . Preheat your pit to 250. Like most meats, it can be cooked in a variety of ways, though there are some general rules of thumb to follow to get the best results. The figure is even higher for beef, with 71% of all cattle being used to produce beef. We prefer to poach the tenderloins, and let them cool, then shred the meat by hand. With a firm belief that anyone can be a great cook and a focus on the mental and emotional aspects of cooking, Chef Champion brings a unique perspective to the kitchen. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Instructions. Follow Where NOLA Eats on Instagram at @wherenolaeats, join the Where NOLA Eats Facebook group and subscribe to the free Where NOLA Eats weekly newsletter here. Barkemeyer said he sells 20,000 to 25,000 pounds of the sausage a year, and he ships it around the country. For alligator meatballs or tacos, go with ground gator meat. Place the skewers directly onto grill and grill for 2 minutes per side. When the coal is white-hot, place the Alligator gar fillets on the oiled grill. Remove the skin as soon as it loosens. The Flavors of FallBeyond Pumpkin and Pecan, 1 lb. The ice will slowly start to remove the skin. Then, pour in 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of vinegar and stir the meat and vinegar together. Alligator is sold in the market as a whole or as a fillet. Season the alligator with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Christie Girls Can Grill. The meat can be put into bowls and refrigerated until it is ready to eat. After that, sprinkle some lemon juice on them to add some extra flavor. Toss the meat with the seasoning and allow to marinate for up to 45 . To cook the best thick pork chops, all you need is a gas grill. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, How to Cook Worcestershire Marinated New York Steak. I cooked it together on the grill to give it a good flavor. When cooking alligator, it is important to know when it is done. if (d.getElementById(id)) return; If you want to batter all of the pieces before you fry them, place the dipped pieces on a plate while you finish battering the rest of them. These tend to be a better texture and flavor than other cuts. Category: dinner. Fried Gator. Fill a deep pot halfway full with oil. Love New Orleans food? Report abuse. Its also reported that soaking alligator meat in milk makes it more digestible, which makes it easier to absorb nutrients. The alligator fillets are best served at room temperature. Grilled alligator is cooked by applying a light coating of oil and grilling on a grill or hot pan. Avoid overloading your kabobs. Their diet consists mostly of fish, but they will also eat small mammals, birds, and reptiles. When ordered, they are fried to a crispy brown, then tossed into a smoked tomato gastrique to coat the exterior. Shake to coat. 1. * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Then add into the buttermilk mixture and shake off. This will make for a better meal. Remove and drain on the prepared rack or paper towels. If its not, then its likely still in its first stage of cooking. Sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions and excess nutrients all contribute to blue-green algae blooms, environmentalists said. This article has been viewed 19,580 times. Weve got you covered, cher! In our opinion, the texture and taste of the white meat is where its at! Slice potatoes (do not peel) and make a layer of them on the bottom of the dish. Growing up in Louisiana, Ace found a passion for southern and creole cooking at a young age, but soon found himself quite successful on the football field. Season the steaks to taste and sear them on both sides until golden-brown. Alligator Sampler $71.50. He also noted that people "sell the heck out of it" at church fairs and similar events. Another bonus about this meat is that it's not only tasty and versatile, but virtually fat free and high in protein. 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. But I cooked it the first time recentlyin sauce picante for our "In Judy's Kitchen" video series. Alligator fleas lemon juice capers butter kumquat olive oil white wine chicken broth. As tough as alligators are in the wild, it comes as no surprise they're just as tough in the kitchen. For the Alligator. For a meat that is supposed to taste a lot like chicken, it's not always cheap, but it sure is popular. Coat the alligator fillets in flour cornmeal or another type of breading. To preserve the alligator fillets, you can marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar and orange juice. the exception of the casing. It takes around 10 minutes for the oil to heat to an appropriate level for frying, so be patient. It is also not that expensive. Add one cup of ice water to the mixture. We find out his secrets for cooking alligator and how to clean it before cooking. Another way to tenderize alligator meat is to use a meat tenderizer. I specialize in healthy, flavorful recipes that are easy to make at home. And of course, it always tastes great pan-seared or fried to a golden crisp! Rub the mixture all over the alligator fillet. based animals is poor compared to other forms of animal consumption. Cajun Alligator Chili. Alligator meat is a popular dish in the southern United States. Buttermilk is a better tenderizer than acid, but you have more flavoring options with oil. Set the temperature to 180 degrees. Alligators eat what they want, when they want, so they have minimal fat reserves, and their meat is lean. Braise the steaks for another 30 minutes and check their tenderness with a fork. Finally, alligator meat can be cooked slowly over low heat. This will help ensure that it cooks through evenly and doesnt become tough or rubbery. The process of brining involves submerging the alligator in a solution of saltwater, sugar, and spices. There are several types of tenderizers available, including those that are made of natural enzymes, acids, or chemicals. It will be easier to slice this way, and you will be able to remove the meat from the bone in the center of the alligator. 7. It is a type of meat that is considered to be a delicacy in some parts of the world. 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. Heat the oil in a medium size saucepot and heat to 375F. Allow the frozen alligator to thaw for about a day before putting it in a small ice cooler and covering it with enough water to submerge the gator. Alligators are a common sight in the southern United States, and many people may wonder why they are often seen soaking in milk. If you're using a pellet grill, set it for around 400F degrees. When it is cooked, the alligator will be firm to the touch. Alligator meat is a popular dish in many cultures, and one of the reasons why is because it is low in calories and has a high quality protein content. Here are a few tips on how to cook alligator fillets: 1. Set next to the lemon sauce. It looks like a dunce cap, long and skinny. The most popular and best portion of the gator is the tenderloin, which is found in the alligators tail. This can be done with a knife, or by placing the alligator in a large bowl of ice. Our tenderized fillets are unmatched in both tenderness and taste. Ive been interested in food and cooking since I was a child. In a cooking pot add oil and lightly brown the alligator meat. If you're new to gator, don't be intimidated it tastes like chicken! And you know what that means football parties, Cajun cook-offs, and an infinite supply of good times! Prep Time: 5 minutes. Tenderize it using a standard meat mallet and for an extra delish result, sprinkle on your favorite meat tenderizer, too. Out of stock. The tail also has white meat in it that isnt a part of the tenderloin. (-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. And the fat on alligator is outside the pieces, not striated throughout the meat like, for instance, beef or pork. Quick view. Brush with extra marinade for the initial 5 minutes. How long does it take to cook alligator meat? ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Heat to 360 degrees F. Coat the alligator meat with the fish batter. 3. But this is not the case. Surprisingly (or maybe not), the USDA doesn't have a doneness guide for alligator and neither does my meat buyer's guide. Mix the melted butter with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Set aside. This is because they contain the highest level of fatty acids, which are essential for the body. This is what stores are for. 2 pounds alligator meat, cut into bite-size pieces. Cube the alligator meat and add to the butter mixture, stirring to coat the alligator. Prepare a rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain the alligator. Although a grilling tray is preferable, a cookie sheet works too. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Heat the barbecue to high hotness and barbecue kabobs for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once. Unless you grow alligators in your own neck of the swamp, we recommend that you get them the way most people do frozen in filets or pieces. If you want to guarantee your alligator will be the best, try this recipe. Put in chunks or nuggets of gar (or put in cheese cloth and put in the water.) Here's how to cook alligator fillets: 1. Remove the filets from the air fryer, tent with foil and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Ever wondered how alligator steaks are made? pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, spices, kosher salt, mayonnaise and 9 more. I specialize in healthy, flavorful recipes that are easy to make at home. parsley; 1 cup water; 1- 10 oz. Designed & Developed by. "Turtle meat is more similar to beef or venison. Alligator Ribs $35.34 - $308.37. 1. For example, youll need to be careful about how you cook alligator fillets, so that they dont dry out too much and their texture remains moist. That said, there are a few things you can do to make sure your alligator meat turns out delicious. The best way to know for sure if alligator meat is done is to cut into a piece and take a bite. Mix the flour, breadcrumbs, and Cajun seasoning. It's safe to leave the meat in the fridge for up to 2 hours for a bolder flavor. 2023 Acadia Crawfish. "It's white meat," Barkemeyer said. 4. Mix all dry ingredients for breading; Mix all wet ingredients, for an egg wash. Dip each Gator Tender Strip into the Egg Wash. Then cover with the breading. 3. Cut the meat into 1-inch thick slices. Until it's fried, alligator gets good grades for nutrition, especially in the protein department. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Portioned into steaks or fillets, alligator tails are definitely considered a delicacy, and can be . Andrews' work has appeared in Food and Wine, Fricote and "BBC Good Food." Barkemeyer, also known as "Chef Bucks," said his product is 65 percent Louisiana farm-raised alligator tail meat and 35 percent fresh boneless pork butt. Pull up a seat at the table. For example, some recipes are cooked on the stove using oil or butter. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before cooking the alligator fillets. Add skewers, and cook until alligator is nicely browned on all sides and an instant-read thermometer inserted in center registers 160, 5 to 10 . 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. The rest of the alligator can then be removed from the bone. Hold the skin back with your non-dominant hand. 4. Instructions. So delicious! There are a few different ways to cook alligator meat, but the most common way is to fry it. It's similar to chicken, but it has that little seafood taste component. 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. While alligator meat is not as common as chicken or beef, it is a delicious and healthy protein choice. The pheromones are chemicals that act as signals to other animals, such as other people. 2. Award winning Chef Ace Champions passion for cooking began years before his culinary career. Unlike beef, though, which you can generally categorize as tender or tough, alligator meat has two levels of tenderness: tough and tougher. However, if you eat raw or undercooked alligator meat, you may experience serious health consequences. For this reason, when buying alligator, it is important to make sure that it is a fresh meat. Repeat with remaining meat. Alligator gar can also be barbecued or roasted - prepare some fillets and get them to cook. Want to see how its done? Alligator Legs: Tender, lean, 2 lb. 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. Cover, and refrigerate about 10 minutes. 1 lb alligator sirloin. Tail meat is a choice cut of white meat that is mild in flavor with a texture similar to veal. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter in a shallow bowl (do not add the garlic yet). Meat was also found to be the most nutrient dense food out there. The answer to this question lies in the alligators diet. In the same pan that you cooked the alligator . Curious? The alligator should be cut into pieces after boiling. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. 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. Preheat the oil to 350 F and fry the alligator pieces in batches for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, or until the nuggets float to the surface and become golden. Alligator fillets are a bit of a different beast when compared to fillets of more common fish. Here is a recipe for alligator fillet that is easy to follow. The alligator is done cooking when the inside is cooked all the way through. Alligator is a type of meat that can be very hard to prepare properly. You can build a marinade around oil and acid or cultured buttermilk. "You can use it in jambalaya, gumbo, or any kind of stew, any place you would use smoked sausage, such as red beans and rice.". This will help ensure that they will cook evenly and not get too tough or dry. Like most hunters, they deliver. To grill alligator fillet, first remove any skin or bones. The ribs, nuggets and wings are a darker meat with a stronger flavor and a texture similar to pork.