Australian Crocodile Tail Skewers
Tender and mild crocodile tail meat, marinated and grilled to perfection. A taste of the Australian outback.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Crocodile tail meat
- 3 tbsp Fresh lime juice
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 Red chili
- 1 bunch Fresh coriander (cilantro)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 8-12 Wooden or metal skewers
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the crocodile meat: Cut the crocodile tail meat into uniform 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes. This ensures even cooking.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, minced garlic, chopped chili, chopped coriander, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Marinate the crocodile: Add the crocodile cubes to the marinade. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor. Do not marinate for too long as the lime juice can start to 'cook' the meat.
⏱️ 1 hour (minimum) - 4
Assemble the skewers: If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked. Thread the marinated crocodile cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to allow for even grilling. Aim for 3-4 pieces per skewer.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill (outdoor or indoor grill pan) to medium-high heat. Aim for a temperature of approximately 200-220°C (400-425°F). Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- 6
Grill the skewers: Place the crocodile skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the crocodile meat is opaque, lightly charred on the outside, and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 71°C (160°F). Be careful not to overcook, as crocodile meat can become dry.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 7
Rest and serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a spicy aioli, sweet chili sauce, or a fresh herb yogurt dip.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Crocodile tail meat is the most tender cut and recommended for skewers.
- ✓Avoid overcooking the crocodile meat. It cooks quickly and can become tough if left on the heat for too long.
- ✓The flavor of crocodile meat is often compared to chicken or firm white fish, making it versatile for marinades and seasonings.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a stir-fry: Cut crocodile meat into thinner strips and stir-fry with vegetables and your favorite sauce.
- Thai-inspired skewers: Add lemongrass, ginger, and a touch of fish sauce to the marinade. Serve with a peanut dipping sauce.