How to Boil a Lobster
Discover the ultimate guide to preparing a restaurant-worthy lobster with this step-by-step recipe on "How to Boil a Lobster." Perfect for seafood enthusiasts, this method ensures a tender, succulent lobster cooked to perfection in just 15 minutes. By mimicking the ocean's salinity with a salt-infused boil and infusing a hint of citrus with fresh lemon, this easy technique enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster meat. Learn the proper way to handle and cook a live lobster with confidence, and serve it alongside melted butter and lemon wedges for an elegant, crowd-pleasing meal. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned lobster lover, this recipe makes mastering this classic seafood preparation stress-free and delicious.
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Ingredients
- 1 whole Live lobster
- 16 cups Water
- 1 cup Salt
- 1 whole Lemon
- 4 tablespoons Butter (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Start by selecting a live lobster from a trusted source. Ensure the lobster is active and its shell is intact.
Step 2
Fill a large stockpot with 16 cups of water—enough to fully submerge the lobster. Add 1 cup of salt to the water to mimic seawater. Optionally, squeeze the juice of one whole lemon into the water for added aroma.
Step 3
Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
Step 4
Using tongs, carefully place the live lobster into the boiling water head-first to minimize stress. Be cautious to avoid splashing the hot water.
Step 5
Cover the pot with a lid and adjust the heat to maintain a steady boil. Cook the lobster for 10–12 minutes for a one-pound lobster. Add 1–2 minutes of cooking time for each additional pound.
Step 6
You will know the lobster is done when its shell turns a bright red color and the antennae can be easily pulled off. Alternatively, test doneness by checking the internal temperature (it should reach 135–140°F/57–60°C).
Step 7
Using tongs, carefully remove the lobster from the pot and transfer it to a large serving platter or cutting board to cool for a few minutes.
Step 8
Serve the lobster with melted butter and lemon wedges for dipping. Crack open the claws and tail, extract the meat, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 4922.8 grams (4922.8g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 948 |
| Total Fat 52.40g | 67% |
| Saturated Fat 30.50g | 153% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g | |
| Cholesterol 614mg | 205% |
| Sodium 116281mg | 5056% |
| Total Carbohydrate 5.40g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber 1.60g | 6% |
| Total Sugars 1.50g | |
| Protein 113.30g | 227% |
| Vitamin D 28IU | 140% |
| Calcium 910mg | 70% |
| Iron 2mg | 13% |
| Potassium 1656mg | 35% |
Source of Calories