Roll up your sleeves, Seafoodies!
It’s time to take the mystery out of cooking lobster! While this beloved fish has earned a reputation for being whimsical and, honestly, might seem intimidating, preparing the perfect lobster is easier than you think. When you’re ready to plan that cozy date night or festive family reunion, stay with us! We’ll help you navigate everything from selection to service.
Let’s get started!
What to consider before buying lobster
First decision: live lobster or claws? Before you go to the store, decide what shape of lobster you need based on your recipe or cooking goals. To get you started, here are some of the most popular types of lobster and how to best prepare them!
Maine lobster: These younger, smaller creatures work wonderfully in classic lobster rolls and burgers. They generally have tender flesh, but they also hold up very well in traditional preparations.
Spiny lobster: With its softer shell, this variety is an ideal choice for grills and pasta dishes. The meat tends to absorb great flavor while maintaining its texture.
Warm water lobster: Another soft-shelled variety that shines in global cuisines. If you’re thinking about curry or stir-fry, this is your best bet.
Now that you know which type to choose, the next common question is, “How much lobster do I need?” For recipes such as lobster rolls or crepes, follow the recipe directions. But if lobster is your main event (think elegant grilled tails or steamed whole lobsters), plan on 1-1.5 pounds per person. Remember, smaller lobsters often produce more tender meat, while large ones or “jumbo” varieties provide a meatier texture.
Buying lobster
With your shopping list ready, it’s finally time to head to the store.
When choosing your lobster, think of it like when you harvest produce: you want the freshest option available! For live lobsters, look for active ones with movable antennae and hard, intact shells, with no signs of cracks or discoloration in sight. They should smell fresh like an ocean breeze, not like fish. Your seafood vendor can be your best friend here – don’t be shy to ask questions about sourcing and freshness, it’s all part of their job!
Store the lobster
Did you bring your lobster home? If it’s live, treat it like the VIP it is! Store it in the refrigerator in a cardboard box lined with damp newspaper and plan to cook it within 24 hours. Do you work with frozen tails or meat? Store them in the freezer until ready to cook and then defrost them overnight in the refrigerator. It’s that easy!
Prepare and cook the lobster
When it comes to cooking, remember this golden rule: less is more! Overcooking can cause the lobster to have a rubbery or extra meaty texture, which is not ideal. If you steam or grill whole lobsters, plan on about 8 minutes of cooking time per pound. Watching your lobster go from its natural color to a bright red is like a built-in timer and a sure sign that your meal is almost ready. If you broil or grill your tails, simply follow our definitive guide on How to Cook Lobster Tails Like a Pro to bring all the flavors of coastal Maine right into your kitchen!
How to cook lobster tails like a pro
Whether you’re steaming, broiling or grilling, the key is to cook with confidence. After all, lobster isn’t just dinner: it’s an experience to be savored and shared.
Can’t get enough of the goodness of lobster? Check out this roundup of 12 Lobster Recipes We Love!
Enjoy!
