Unlock the culinary genius: master ottolenghi’s lobster recipe, step-by-step

If you’re a seafood enthusiast seeking an extraordinary culinary adventure, look no further than Yotam Ottolenghi’s exquisite lobster recipe. This dish is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

• 1 large live lobster (1.2-1.5 kg)
• 100 ml olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobster:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Submerge the lobster headfirst into the boiling water.
• Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the shell turns bright red.

2. Make the Marinade:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, ginger, cayenne pepper, saffron, parsley, and cilantro.

3. Marinate the Lobster:

• Remove the lobster from the boiling water and cut it in half lengthwise.
• Brush the marinade generously over the lobster meat.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

4. Grill the Lobster:

• Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill the lobster halves, flesh side down, for 5-7 minutes, or until charred and cooked through.

5. Serve:

• Transfer the grilled lobster to a serving platter.
• Garnish with lemon wedges and serve immediately.

Delectable Variations

• Spicy Lobster: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
• Herbed Lobster: Add chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
• Lemon-Garlic Lobster: Add extra lemon zest and minced garlic to the marinade for a refreshing and tangy flavor.

Pairing Perfection

This exquisite lobster dish pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
• A light and refreshing rosé
• A cold lager or pilsner

Health Benefits

Beyond its incredible taste, this dish offers several health benefits:

• Rich in Protein: Lobster is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Good Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Lobster contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and cognitive function.
• Contains Antioxidants: Lobster is rich in antioxidants, which protect against cell damage.

Culinary Tips

• Choose a Live Lobster: For the freshest and most flavorful lobster, opt for a live one.
• Don’t Overcook: Lobster meat becomes tough if overcooked. Cook it just until it turns opaque and firm.
• Use a Marinade: Marinating the lobster enhances its flavor and keeps it moist.
• Grill to Perfection: Grilling the lobster gives it a smoky and charred flavor.

Beyond the Recipe

Yotam Ottolenghi’s lobster recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dish will elevate your culinary repertoire to new heights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I cook this recipe with frozen lobster?
A: Yes, you can use frozen lobster. Thaw it completely before marinating and grilling.
Q: How long can I marinate the lobster?
A: You can marinate the lobster for up to 24 hours. However, 30 minutes to 1 hour is sufficient for optimal flavor.
Q: Can I bake this recipe instead of grilling it?
A: Yes, you can bake the lobster at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.