Ingredients

1 lb alligator meat, cut into bite-size pieces

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup cornmeal

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Vegetable oil, for frying

Lemon wedges and creamy dipping sauce, for serving

Instructions

Place the alligator pieces in buttermilk and let them soak for 30 minutes to tenderize.

In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

Remove the meat from the buttermilk and dredge evenly in the seasoned coating.

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pieces in batches for 3–4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

Drain on paper towels and season lightly with salt.