Armadillo -- Good Eatin'?

#TalkNerdyToMeLover's Awesome Applesauce: Charles Quevedo

When I was living in Louisiana, the weirdest thing I ever ate was "turtle".  My roommate's uncle (from Tennessee) came for a visit and brought an igloo full of chopped up "turtle meat".  Dipped in a thick batter and deep fried, the meat tasted like chicken.  I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the taste of it (I even went back for a second helping).

The South is infamous for serving up the weirdest little things for meals.  After my turtle-eating-experience, I told myself that I'd be up for eating almost anything.

Watching an episode of "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations" last week; I was shocked to watch a family catch, cook, and eat an "armadillo" (yes, you heard me correctly).  Also known as "Possum On The Half-Shell", this "finger-lickin'-good" culinary roadkill dish is a favorite among Southerners in the United States.  Armadillos are very easy to catch (probably by hitting them with a car).  Doing research on the Internet, I'm amazed to discover that they're making their way to the finest Southern resturants.  Seasoned (with paprika, thyme, and rosemary) and marinated in white wine; it is usually prepared with onions, garlic, carrots and potatoes.  "Armadillo" isn't just for backyard BBQs anymore.  Someone save me a drumstick!

Mmm ... Mmm ... Rat on a half shell!

Follow Charles on Twitter: @FuglyCharlie