Alligator Creole

Ingredients

• 3 lb. alligator, cubed
• 1/4 c. butter
• 2 c. finely chopped onion
• 2 c. finely chopped celery
• 2 c. finely chopped bell pepper
• 3 tsp. finely minced garlic
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tsp. white pepper
• 2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp. black pepper
• 1 tsp. Tabasco sauce
• 3 Tbsp. crushed red pepper
• 1 Tbsp. dried thyme leaves
• 3 cans whole tomatoes, crushed
• 3 cans tomato sauce
• 1 large can tomato paste