Learn How to Cook Lobster the Simple Way

Learn How to Cook Lobster the Simple Way
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Looks are Deceiving When It Comes to Cooking Lobster

Cooking lobster can seem intimidating to many cooks, and many may not even attempt to prepare it for meals. It is easier than you might think, and can be a rewarding experience for innovative cooks. Lobster is best cooked in salt water to maintain its natural flavor. If seawater is not readily available, simply add some salt to tap water to boil the lobster. About one tablespoon of salt per quart of water will give the concentration that is needed.

If you feel squeamish about tossing a live lobster into boiling water, simply place the lobster in the freezer for approximately ten minutes prior to cooking. This numbs the lobster, and makes the cooking process more humane.

Boiled or Steamed Lobster

Boiling lobster is quicker than steaming, but many say that steamed lobster has a richer flavor.

Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the lobster and bring it to a boil. Once the water comes to a rolling boil, place the lobster headfirst into the water. This will temporarily reduce the temperature of the water, cooling it slightly. Let the water come back to a boil and then begin timing the cooking process. The lobster should cook in boiling water for 10 minutes for the first pound and an additional 3 minutes for each additional pound.

Steaming lobster requires the same large sized pot filled with only roughly two inches of water. Place a steaming rack in the pot and heat the water until it boils. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the lobster to the pot, placing it on the steam rack and allow the water to come back to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil again, begin timing the cooking. For steamed lobster, the first pound will need to cook for about 14 minutes with an additional 3 minutes per additional pound.

Grilled Lobster

Grilled lobster requires par-boiling for about 5 minutes prior to grilling. As described above, bring water to a boil and add the lobster to the boiling water. Once it returns to a boil, cook the lobster for 5 minutes. Remove from the water and prepare for grilling by cutting the lobster down the middle. Remove the black vein that runs down the tail and baste with melted butter. Place the lobster on a hot grill and cook with the shell side down on the grill. Cooking time is about 10 minutes. Be sure not to overcook the lobster as this can make the meat tough and dry.

How to Tell If the Lobster is Done

Lobster meat should be white and flake easily with a fork when cooked properly. The shell will have turned bright red, and the antennae will pull off easily. The internal temperature should measure roughly 180 degrees.