How To Cook Lobster Tail

Lobster tails are one of the most mouth-watering seafood delicacies that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Cooking lobster tail may look intimidating, but it is actually quite simple. In this article, we will guide you on how to cook lobster tail like a pro.

Preparing Lobster Tail

Before cooking lobster tails, you need to prepare them. Here are the steps to follow:

– Thaw the lobster tails in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before cooking them. If you are in a hurry, you can thaw them under cold running water.
– Once thawed, use kitchen shears to cut the shell down the back of the tail. This will help you remove the meat easily after cooking.
– Gently lift the meat out of the shell and lay it over the top of the shell. Be careful not to break the shell.

Baked Lobster Tail

Baking is one of the easiest and quickest ways to cook lobster tails. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

– 4 lobster tails
– 4 tablespoons of butter
– Salt
– Pepper
– Paprika
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Arrange the lobster tails on a baking sheet.
3. Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave.
4. Brush the lobster tails with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika on top of the lobster tails.
6. Bake the lobster tails for 10-12 minutes or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
7. Serve with lemon wedges.

Grilled Lobster Tail

Grilling lobster tail adds a smoky flavor. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

– 4 lobster tails
– 4 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt
– Pepper
– Garlic powder
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the lobster tails with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder on the lobster tails.
4. Place the lobster tails on the grill, meat side down.
5. Grill the lobster tails for 5-7 minutes.
6. Flip the lobster tails and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
7. Serve with lemon wedges.

Boiled Lobster Tail

Boiling lobster tail is another easy and fast way to cook it. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients:

– 4 lobster tails
– Salt
– Water
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot with water and add salt.
2. Bring the water to a boil.
3. Place the lobster tails in the pot and cover the pot with a lid.
4. Boil the lobster tails for 8-12 minutes or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
5. Remove the lobster tails with tongs and let them cool for a few minutes.
6. Serve with lemon wedges.

How to Serve Lobster Tail

You can serve lobster tail with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great side dishes to serve with lobster tails:

– Grilled vegetables
– Garlic mashed potatoes
– Rice pilaf
– Baked potatoes
– Corn on the cob
– Green salad

FAQs

1. Can I cook frozen lobster tails?
While it is possible to cook frozen lobster tails, we recommend thawing them first. Thawing helps to evenly cook the meat in the tail.

2. Can I cook lobster tails in the microwave?
While it is possible to cook lobster tails in the microwave, we don’t recommend it. The meat can easily become tough and rubbery.

3. How can I tell if the lobster tail is cooked?
The lobster tail should turn opaque in color and the meat should be firm and white. The internal temperature should be 140°F (60°C).

4. Can I grill frozen lobster tails?
No, we don’t recommend grilling frozen lobster tails. You should always thaw them before cooking.

5. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftover cooked lobster tail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.