Alligator Bites

INGREDIENTS 1/2 pound alligator; cut into bite sized pieces

2 cups buttermilk

1 egg

1/4 cup hot sauce

2 cups flour

onion powder

white pepper

celery salt

cajun seasoning

parsley, for garnish

vegetable oil, for frying

SAUCE:

1 cup mayo

3-4 garlic cloves; minced

2 tablespoons creole mustard

2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, minced

2 tablespoons jalapeño juice

1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (to taste) 1-2 teaspoons white pepper

cajun seasoning, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cut the alligator into bite sized pieces. In a large bowl; combine the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. Add the alligator to the buttermilk, cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.

2. Preheat the oil to 350 degrees F. In a second bowl, add the flour and season to taste. Dredge the alligator in the flour, buttermilk, and flour again. Repeat until all pieces are double battered.

3. Fry, in batches, for 5-10 minutes until crispy. The internal temperature should be at least 160 degrees F.

4. Serve hot, garnished with lemon and parsley.