Tender crocodile tail fillets glazed with tart Davidson plum, creating an adventurous dish that showcases Australia's most unique native ingredients in elegant harmony.
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 600g crocodile tail fillet, cut into medallions
- 3 tbsp Davidson plum puree (or substitute with cranberry sauce)
- 2 tbsp Australian honey
- 40g unsalted butter
- 30ml macadamia oil (or olive oil)
Instructions
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Remove 600g crocodile tail fillet from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Pat the medallions dry and season both sides with salt and white pepper. The meat should be firm and pale pink.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tbsp Davidson plum puree (or substitute with cranberry sauce) puree and 2 tbsp Australian honey to create the glaze. The Davidson plum's tartness will balance beautifully with the honey's sweetness.
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Heat the 30ml macadamia oil (or olive oil) in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
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Add the crocodile medallions to the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes - crocodile cooks quickly like chicken breast.
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Reduce heat to low and brush the medallions with the Davidson plum glaze. Add the 40g unsalted butter to the pan and baste the meat with the foaming butter for 1-2 minutes until the glaze caramelises.
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Remove from heat when the internal temperature reaches 65°C (149°F). Rest for 3 minutes before serving, allowing the unique flavours to settle and the meat to remain succulent.
Tips
Crocodile Cooking Notes: Crocodile meat is extremely lean and mild, similar to chicken but with a slightly firmer texture. It's important not to overcook as it can become tough quickly.
Davidson Plum Substitute: If Davidson plum isn't available, use 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a similar tart-sweet profile.
Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer for best results. Crocodile is safe and most tender when cooked to 65°C (149°F) - any higher and it becomes chewy.
Sourcing Crocodile: Many specialty butchers and online suppliers stock Australian crocodile. It's sustainably farmed and surprisingly accessible in major cities.
Preparation Tip: Score the surface lightly in a crosshatch pattern before seasoning to help the meat stay flat during cooking and absorb flavours better.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted sweet potato, steamed greens, or native pepper leaf salad. The unique gamey-yet-mild flavour works beautifully with both native bush foods and contemporary Australian vegetables.