What's that smell?
Yesterday and this morning, many South Floridians woke up to the smoky stench of a brush fire blazing in the Everglades. The fire, destroying more than 28,000 acres, has been burning in the Big Cypress National Preserve since April 26, reports the Sun-Sentinel. An air pollution advisory was issued by the Florida Department of Health on Monday
morning, warning of possible respiratory issues such as shortness of breath and coughing.
With the Everglades blazing like a camp fire, it got CPC thinking: Will the fire make for tasty swamp food?
With most of the cooking done for you, here are five eats from the Everglades:
Fried Gator Tail
A Florida classic, gator tail is said to be a lean source of protein with the texture of filet mignon. Here's a recipe to make gator tail hors d'oeuvres sure to impress the elite at your next swamp dinner party.
Python
Should we eat the invasive reptile as payback for eating our small pets? Python meat might not taste like chicken, but some serve it up chargrilled or fried. Python meat can cost $50 per pound, but it contains unsafe levels of mercury. It might be better to use the hide for snazzy boots instead.
Pygator
Similar to a turducken (chicken stuffed into a duck, stuffed into a turkey), swamp foodies might enjoy python-stuffed gator (probably not).
Everglades Frog Legs
Boasting a mild flavor with texture similar to that of chicken wings, frog legs have long remained a Florida delicacy. How about some sautéed Florida frog legs over a frisee salad? Here's a recipe to make at home.
Swamp Cabbage
We can't forget about our vegetarians. Our state tree (sabal palm) can be used to prepare swamp cabbage or fritters. Considered the ultimate camp food, here are instructions on how to harvest your own. Hint: You can buy it canned (hearts of palm).
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