In today’s world, it’s hard to imagine a time when lobsters weren’t a big deal. They’ve been part of our meals since ancient times and are still considered a delicacy in many places, often served as a main dish with other seafood. You might even find lobster in desserts or sauces. It’s highly valued for its taste and nutritional benefits, earning the nickname “the king of crustaceans” due to its meaty, sweet shell and high oil content. While fresh lobster can be pricey, it’s easy to cook at home with a few simple tips.
To cook lobster well, it’s important to preserve its flavor. Boiling is generally the best method. Quickly boiling lobster tails can make the meat tender and flavorful. Start by placing the tail-end down in cold, salted water. Bring it to a boil and steam for about 5 minutes until the meat separates easily from the shell. For live lobsters, bring an inch of water to a boil, add the lobsters, turn off the heat, and let them cook for about 12 minutes. Alternatively, boil them alive for about 7 minutes in salted water with a bay leaf, then transfer them to an ice bath. This method is often used for dishes like Lobster Bisque or Lobster Thermidor.
Cooking time varies with the size of the lobster. A 1-pound lobster takes about 15 minutes to boil, while a 2-pound lobster takes about 20 minutes. For larger lobsters, use less water so they steam rather than boil. Prepare your ingredients beforehand, including sauce, lemon juice, and mayonnaise. Add salt and white wine vinegar early to prevent overcooking. Sprinkle them on the shells or add them with ice cubes to the pot. Add thyme and parsley later, after the lobsters return to a boil, to preserve their flavor.
Lobster is easy to cook in various ways. For frying, heat some oil in a pan and add the lobsters. Grilling or oven cooking involves preheating the oven, placing the lobsters on top, brushing with melted butter, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve with sauces like butter, dill butter, chipotle lime butter, or cilantro lime butter for added flavor.
Steaming is the best way to cook lobster, as it reduces the risk of bacterial infection and makes it easier to remove from the shell. Avoid overcooking to prevent the meat from drying out and becoming tough.
