Alligator fingers are a delicious, adventurous appetizer or snack that brings a taste of the South to your table. These flavorful strips of alligator meat are marinated in a tangy blend of buttermilk and hot sauce, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. With a texture similar to chicken but with a mildly gamey flavor, alligator meat offers a unique culinary experience that’s both tender and succulent. Paired with a zesty dipping sauce, these crispy alligator fingers are perfect for parties, game day snacks, or whenever you want to try something out of the ordinary. Whether you’re a fan of exotic meats or simply looking for a new dish to impress your guests, alligator fingers are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb alligator tail meat, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Marinate the Alligator:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the alligator strips, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Alligator Fingers:
- Remove the alligator strips from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place the coated strips on a plate.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Alligator Fingers:
- Working in batches, carefully add the coated alligator strips to the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, hot sauce, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the alligator fingers hot with the zesty dipping sauce on the side. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Alligator fingers are a unique and tasty dish that combines the tender, mild flavor of alligator meat with a crispy, seasoned coating. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, these fried delights make for a memorable appetizer or snack that brings a touch of Southern flair to your meal.
