Cooking live lobster at home is not only incredibly easy, but it also allows you to enjoy tender and juicy lobster just like your favorite restaurant. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking whole lobster, sharing tips and insights along the way. So, let’s get started and bring the flavors of a restaurant-style lobster dinner to your own kitchen!
The Thrill of Cooking Whole Lobster
We all love the excitement of dining out and indulging in a whole steamed Maine lobster served on the waterfront. However, the hefty price tag can be a deterrent. Luckily, it’s surprisingly simple to recreate this experience at home, and for half the cost! Whether your local grocery store sells live lobsters or you opt for a mail-order service, homemade lobster dinners are now within reach for everyone.
How to Boil Lobster
Cooking live lobster at home requires minimal effort and just a few minutes of your time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to boiling lobster:
- Fill a large, deep stock pot with about 3-4 inches of water. Season the water generously with salt.
- Optional: Enhance the flavor by adding herbs or lemon to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then carefully place the lobsters head-first into the pot.
- Cover the pot tightly and steam the lobsters for 8 minutes per pound for the first pound, and an additional 3 minutes per pound thereafter. For example, a 2-pound lobster will take approximately 10 minutes to cook fully.
- Use tongs to remove the lobster from the pot and check for doneness. A fully cooked lobster should register 135-140˚F when an instant-read thermometer is inserted into the thickest part of the tail.
Alternatively, if boiling is your preferred method, fill your pot two-thirds full and bring it to a boil. Season the water with salt and add the lobsters. Cook them for 7-8 minutes per pound for the first pound, and an additional 2 minutes per pound thereafter.
Steaming is generally considered the best way to cook lobster as it retains more flavor and prevents the meat from becoming waterlogged. However, boiling can be a great option if you’re cooking multiple lobsters at once, although it may result in a messier eating experience.
Once you’ve mastered cooking a live lobster, you’ll be on your way to creating amazing dishes like the delectable Lobster Thermidor!
How Much Meat Is in a Live Lobster
A 1 1/2-pound lobster yields approximately 1 1/3 cups of lobster meat, making it the perfect portion for one person or for incorporating into a salad.
How to Buy and Store Live Lobster
When selecting live lobster at the grocery store, look for lively and feisty specimens. Check for cracks on their shells and ensure all limbs, such as legs and claws, are intact. Smaller lobsters weighing around 1 1/2 lbs are generally recommended, as they require less cooking time and are less likely to have tough meat.
To store live lobsters, transfer them to a paper bag and place them in the coldest part of your refrigerator (not the freezer). The cold environment will keep them docile and limit their movement. Always handle lobsters by their body, avoiding their legs or claws. Remember that lobsters can only survive for 36 hours after being removed from saltwater, so be sure to cook them on the same day you purchase them.
Tips for Cooking Live Lobster
Here are some helpful tips to enhance your lobster cooking experience:
- Pick the right pot: Ensure you have a pot large enough to steam or boil your lobsters. A 4-5 quart pot is perfect for cooking two lobsters, but you’ll need a larger pot for more than two. If you don’t have a pot big enough, it’s best to cook your lobsters in batches.
- Steam or boil: The choice of steaming or boiling is up to you. Steaming reduces the chance of boil-over or waterlogged lobster.
- Choosing the lobster: Select a lively lobster with intact limbs. Avoid cooking a dead lobster as it can pose a risk of foodborne illness. Live lobsters are brownish-greenish in color and turn red once cooked.
- Serving: Serve your cooked lobster with melted butter and lemon wedges for a simple and delicious experience.
How to Serve It
When it comes to serving lobster, simplicity is key. Pair your lobster dinner with a fresh green salad or a bowl of coleslaw to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. For a special occasion, you can even indulge in a surf and turf combo by serving a tender steak alongside your lobster.
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More Easy Lobster Recipes
If you’re craving more lobster goodness, we have some fantastic recipes for you to try. Check out our crazy simple Lobster Tail recipe, complete with a video tutorial. For a summertime cookout, grill your lobster tail for a smoky twist. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, our Lobster Mac and Cheese is a favorite that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. And for an elegant and decadent dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, don’t miss out on Lobster Thermidor.
Remember, cooking live lobster doesn’t have to be reserved for special occasions or expensive restaurants. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and restaurant-quality lobster dinner right in the comfort of your own home. So why wait? Embrace your inner chef and treat yourself to a delightful lobster feast tonight!
