Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) rattlesnake meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco or your favorite brand)
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups or 480 ml)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, and lime juice.
  2. Add rattlesnake pieces and ensure they are fully submerged.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  5. In a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
  6. Remove marinated rattlesnake from the fridge.
  7. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture until well-coated, shaking off any excess.
  8. Carefully add a few coated pieces to the hot oil.
  9. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  10. Use a slotted spoon to remove bites and transfer to paper towels to drain.
  11. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.