Southern Fried Gator with Spicy Remoulade

Experience the unique flavors of the South with this Southern Fried Gator recipe, featuring tender alligator meat coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection. Served with a zesty spicy remoulade, this dish balances traditional Southern cooking with a creative twist, making it an exciting appetizer or main course for adventurous eaters. It's gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a satisfying option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound alligator meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon horseradish
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Marinate the alligator pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
2. In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove alligator from buttermilk and let excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge the alligator pieces in the cornmeal mixture until fully coated.
6. Fry the alligator in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
7. For the spicy remoulade, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, lemon juice, hot sauce, and chopped parsley in a bowl.
8. Serve the fried gator with the spicy remoulade on the side.