Steamed Maine Lobster: A Summer Delight
As the summer sun shines brightly and backyard cookouts become the centerpiece of warm evenings, there’s nothing quite like the anticipation of a perfectly steamed Maine lobster to bring that coastal charm to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a personal treat, knowing how to cook lobster is an essential skill that elevates your culinary repertoire. This easy and straightforward recipe not only ensures a delightful seafood experience but also highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients, allowing the sweet, succulent flavors of lobster to shine through. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 842.7 |
| Total Fat | 8.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 862.6 mg |
| Sodium | 3852.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Protein | 171 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lobsters | 4 |
| Beer | 8 oz |
| Salt | 2 tsp |
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
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Prepare the Cooking Pot: Begin by selecting a pot that is large enough to accommodate two lobsters at a time. The size is crucial to ensure the lobsters can steam properly without being cramped. Pour in approximately two inches of seawater, which adds a natural brininess to the lobsters, enhancing their flavor. If you do not have access to seawater, simply substitute it with fresh water and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
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Add Beer: Pour in 4 ounces of your favorite beer. The beer not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the steaming process, creating a more aromatic cooking environment for the lobsters.
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Bring to a Boil: Place the pot on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a vigorous boil. It’s essential to ensure that the water reaches a rolling boil before introducing the lobsters, as this helps to seal in the flavors quickly.
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Steam the Lobsters: Carefully place the lobsters into the pot, ensuring they are arranged in such a way that they can fit comfortably. Cover the pot tightly with a lid to trap the steam inside. The cooking time is critical: for the standard 2-pound lobsters, steam them for precisely 16 minutes. It’s important to start your timer as soon as you close the lid and the water returns to a boil.
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Remove and Serve: Once the time is up, use tongs to carefully remove the lobsters from the pot. Be cautious, as they will be extremely hot. Discard the used water and prepare fresh water in the pot, adding salt if you used plain water earlier and incorporating the remaining beer.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve the steamed lobsters with individual bowls of melted butter for dipping, alongside cracking utensils to aid in getting to the sweet meat within. This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a feast while savoring the tender, flavorful lobster meat.
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Cooking Adjustments: If you are cooking lobsters of different sizes, the general rule is to steam for 13 minutes per pound for the first pound, and then add an additional 3 minutes for each subsequent pound. For example, a 1.5-pound lobster will need to steam for about 14.5 minutes.
Final Notes
With its simplicity and robust flavors, this steamed Maine lobster recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or even a special date night at home. The combination of beer and salt enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, while the steaming method retains moisture and tenderness, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also impresses your guests, making it a must-have recipe for any seafood lover’s collection.
Keywords
- Very Low Carbs
- High Protein
- Healthy
- Summer
- Steam
- Stove Top
- Easy
- < 30 Mins
Now that you’re equipped with this delightful steamed Maine lobster recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and make a splash this summer season! Enjoy every moment of your cooking adventure and the delicious results that follow!
