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Fried Gator Tail — traditional dish from Everglades, United States
Snack Meat

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

🔥350kcal
💪32gProtein
🌾18gCarbs
🥑20gFat
🌿1gFibre
⚖️250 gServing

* Per serving · 250 g. May vary.

Allergens

🌾 Gluten

Fried Gator Tail

How to order / say it
Say it Fried Gator Tail — [Fry-gay-ter tayl]
Order I'd like the fried gator tail, please.
Say locally

Bite-sized pieces of breaded and fried alligator tail.

Why try it?

Trying fried gator tail is a rite of passage for Orlando visitors, showcasing Florida's unique local flora and fauna on a plate. It offers a glimpse into the adventurous spirit of traditional Florida cuisine.

How it tastes

These savory and slightly chewy bites are reminiscent of a cross between chicken and fish, with a light gamey flavor. The crispy breading adds a satisfying crunch, often accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce.

Origin & History — first documented: 1970

Alligator meat has been consumed by Native Floridians since before European settlement. Frying the tails became popular in the late 20th century as tourism grew, introducing visitors to this distinctive local delicacy.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • 🥩 500 g alligator tail
  • 🌾 100 g flour
  • 🥚 2 egg
  • 🥛 100 ml buttermilk
  • 🧂 5 g paprika
  • 🫒 500 ml oil

Method

  1. 1 Cut alligator tail into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2 Mix flour and paprika in one bowl, and whisk eggs and buttermilk in another.
  3. 3 Dip the gator pieces in the buttermilk mixture, then coat with seasoned flour.
  4. 4 Deep fry the coated gator pieces in hot oil until golden brown.
All North America recipes — United States — Orlando — Fried Gator Tail
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