Perfectly Boiled Lobster

Name: Perfectly Boiled Lobster
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 4 whole live lobsters (about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pounds each); 1 cup sea salt (for every 4 litres (1 gallon) of water); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 whole lemon (cut into wedges)

25 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Learn how to boil lobster to perfection with our easy guide. Impress your guests with tender and flavourful lobster that's perfect for any occasion.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Boiling lobster is a classic method to enjoy this succulent seafood, showcasing its natural sweetness and tender texture. It's a dish often associated with indulgence and celebration, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious homemade meal. Our method ensures that you achieve perfectly cooked lobster every time, with simple steps and minimal ingredients. This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers looking to recreate a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of their own kitchen.

Instructions

Prepare the pot

Fill a large pot with water, leaving room for the lobsters. Add sea salt at a ratio of 1 cup per 4 litres (1 gallon) of water.

Pro tip: Using seawater if available can enhance the flavour.

Bring to a boil

Cover the pot and bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Pro tip: Ensure the water is boiling rapidly before adding lobsters.

Prepare the lobsters

Chill the live lobsters in the freezer for 15 minutes to subdue them.

Add lobsters to pot

Using gloves, place the lobsters headfirst into the boiling water. Cover the pot.

Pro tip: Lower lobsters gently to avoid splashing.

Boil the lobsters

Boil for 8-10 minutes for 1 1/4-pound lobsters, 10-12 minutes for 1 1/2-pound lobsters.

Pro tip: The lobsters are done when they turn bright red and the tails curl.

Remove and serve

Use tongs to remove the lobsters from the pot. Drain them well and serve hot with melted butter and lemon wedges.

Pro tip: Let the lobsters rest for a minute so juices settle before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, live lobsters for the best flavour.
Chill lobster before boiling to reduce movement.
Don't overcrowd the pot; they need space to cook evenly.
Serve with melted butter and lemon for added flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you boil lobster?

Boil lobsters for 8-10 minutes for 1 1/4-pound lobsters and 10-12 minutes for 1 1/2-pound lobsters.

Do you put lobster in boiling water?

Yes, place lobsters headfirst into boiling water to cook them evenly and quickly.

How much salt do you need to boil lobster?

Use 1 cup of sea salt per 4 litres (1 gallon) of water for boiling lobsters.

What do you serve with boiled lobster?

Serve boiled lobster with melted butter and lemon wedges for dipping.

Can you store leftover lobster?

Yes, store leftover lobster meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your boiled lobster with a side of melted butter and lemon wedges for dipping, enhancing its natural flavours. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light beer for an exquisite dining experience. If you have leftovers, remove the meat from the shells and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Use it in salads, pastas, or sandwiches for a delicious meal the next day.

Nutrition per serving

200

Calories

25g

Protein

10g

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