Ben Franklin suggested the turkey as the American symbol, in place of the noble eagle. In that vein I'd like to offer up alligator as the most thoroughly American meat.
No, it doesn't taste quite like chicken. There’s just an essence of frog, a subtle fresh-water saltiness, and when cooked properly, just enough tooth to remind you that you're eating flesh.
I loved this Louisiana cookbook, which was published the year alligators edged off the endangered list and became literal fair game again. Here's a serving suggestion: