What To Know
- Crack the claws with a lobster cracker or the back of a heavy knife.
- For a golden-brown exterior, broil the lobster for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are slightly charred.
- If you don’t have a lobster cracker, use a pair of kitchen shears to cut through the claws.
Indulge in the exquisite culinary experience of preparing a whole baked lobster. This delectable dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With our step-by-step guide, you can master the art of creating this seafood masterpiece in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole live lobster (1 1/2-2 pounds)
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lobster:
- Gently rinse the lobster under cold running water.
- Cut the lobster in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.
- Remove the intestinal tract, which runs along the back of the lobster.
- Crack the claws with a lobster cracker or the back of a heavy knife.
2. Make the Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, parsley, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the Lobster:
- Brush the inside of the lobster halves with the herb butter.
- Season the lobster meat with additional salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bake the Lobster:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the lobster halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the lobster meat is cooked through and opaque.
5. Broil the Lobster (Optional):
- For a golden-brown exterior, broil the lobster for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are slightly charred.
6. Serve Immediately:
- Remove the lobster from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Choose a live lobster for the freshest flavor.
- Do not overcook the lobster, as it will become tough.
- If you don’t have a lobster cracker, use a pair of kitchen shears to cut through the claws.
- Serve the lobster with melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: Add 1-2 minced garlic cloves to the herb butter for extra flavor.
- Spicy Lobster: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the herb butter for a kick.
- Lemon-Herb Lobster: Increase the amount of lemon zest to 2 teaspoons for a brighter citrus flavor.
Benefits of Eating Lobster:
Lobster is a nutritious seafood option that offers several health benefits:
- Rich in protein and low in calories
- Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Good source of vitamins B12, selenium, and zinc
- May support heart health and reduce inflammation
Pairing Suggestions:
Complement your whole baked lobster with the following sides:
- Asparagus with Lemon Butter
- Roasted Potatoes
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Lobster Bisque
Troubleshooting:
- Lobster meat is tough: The lobster was likely overcooked.
- Lobster meat is watery: The lobster was not cooked long enough.
- Lobster has a strong fishy smell: The lobster may not have been fresh.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How do I know if my lobster is cooked through?
A: The lobster meat should be opaque and firm when pierced with a fork.
Q: Can I bake a frozen lobster?
A: Yes, but it will take longer to cook. Thaw the lobster overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover lobster?
A: Reheat leftover lobster in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I grill a whole lobster instead of baking it?
A: Yes, you can grill a whole lobster. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the lobster for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Q: What are some other ways to cook a whole lobster?
A: You can also boil or steam a whole lobster. Boiling takes about 10 minutes per pound, while steaming takes about 7 minutes per pound.
