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alligator meat.

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ALSO KNOWN AS

gator meat

Recipes with alligator meat + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

232

PROTEIN

46.2g

CARBS

FAT

4.2g

FIBER

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories232kcal—

Protein46.2g92%

Carbohydrates0g0%

Fiber0g0%

Sugar0g0%

Total fat4.2g5%

Saturated fat1.1g6%

Cholesterol91mg30%

Water52.2g—

MINERALS

Sodium65mg3%

Potassium260mg6%

Calcium20mg2%

Iron1.4mg8%

Magnesium25mg6%

Phosphorus320mg26%

Zinc2.2mg20%

Copper0.10mg11%

Manganese0.02mg1%

Selenium35µg64%

VITAMINS

Vitamin A0µg0%

Vitamin C0mg0%

Thiamin (B1)0.10mg8%

Riboflavin (B2)0.20mg15%

Niacin (B3)4.2mg26%

Vitamin B60.60mg35%

Folate (B9)7.0µg2%

Vitamin B121.0µg42%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup150g

1 tablespoon9.4g

1 teaspoon3.1g

1 oz28.4g

1 lb453.6g

1 ml0.6g

1 liter625g

1 piece100g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth.
✓Lower in saturated fat and cholesterol compared to red meats like beef, making it a heart-healthier option.
✓Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health and brain function.
✓Provides essential minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, and iron, as well as B vitamins, particularly B12.

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1Alligator meat is very lean and can dry out easily; avoid overcooking. Cook to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
2The tail meat is the most tender and is best for quick cooking methods like frying, grilling, or sautéing.
3Tougher cuts from the body or legs are ideal for slow-cooking methods like braising, stewing, or grinding for burgers and sausage.
4Marinating the meat for at least 30 minutes in an acidic marinade (like citrus or vinegar) can help tenderize it and add flavor.

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Store fresh alligator meat in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below and consume within 2 days.
For long-term storage, vacuum-seal and freeze at 0°F (-18°C). It can be stored for up to 12 months.
Thaw frozen alligator meat slowly in the refrigerator overnight to maintain its texture and prevent bacterial growth.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Is alligator meat healthy?

Yes, alligator meat is a highly nutritious lean protein. It is low in saturated fat and cholesterol while being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. It also provides essential minerals like iron and B vitamins.

How much protein is in alligator meat?

Alligator meat is exceptionally high in protein, containing approximately 46.2g per 100g serving. This makes it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth, offering significantly more protein per gram than many traditional meats.

Is alligator meat good for weight loss?

Yes, it is very beneficial for weight loss due to its high protein-to-calorie ratio. With 232 calories and only 4.2g of fat per 100g, it helps promote satiety and maintain muscle mass while keeping overall caloric intake relatively low.

Is alligator meat keto-friendly?

Absolutely. Alligator meat contains 0g of carbohydrates, making it a perfect fit for ketogenic and other low-carb diets. Its high protein content and healthy fats align well with keto nutritional requirements.

Is alligator meat halal or kosher?

Generally, alligator meat is not considered kosher as it is a reptile and lacks the specific characteristics required by Jewish dietary laws. Similarly, most Islamic scholars consider it haram (not halal) because it is a predatory animal with fangs.

What does alligator meat taste like?

Alligator meat has a mild flavor often described as a cross between chicken and rabbit, with a very subtle fishy undertone. The texture is firm and similar to dark meat chicken, though it can become chewy if overcooked.

How do you cook alligator meat?

Alligator can be grilled, fried, or used in stews like gumbo. Because it is very lean, it is best cooked quickly over high heat or slow-braised; overcooking will result in a tough, rubbery texture.

Which part of the alligator is the best to eat?

The tail is considered the choice cut because it is the most tender and white, similar to veal in appearance. The legs and ribs are darker meat with a stronger flavor and a texture more similar to pork.

How do you store alligator meat and how long does it last?

Fresh alligator meat should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consumed within 2 days. For long-term storage, it can be frozen in vacuum-sealed bags for up to 6 months to prevent freezer burn.

Can I substitute alligator meat with other proteins?

If alligator is unavailable, the best substitutes are chicken thighs, pork loin, or firm white fish like monkfish. These options provide a similar texture and mild flavor profile that works well in most alligator recipes.

RECIPES