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
4
Difficulty
Medium
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.
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
Nutrition per serving
200
Calories
25g
Protein
10g
Fat
0g
Carbs
You Might Also Like
More Seafood Recipes
Perfectly Steamed Lobster Tails
Indulge in tender and juicy steamed lobster tails, a delicacy that's easy to prepare and perfect for any special occasion.
Perfect Baked Lobster Tails
Succulent lobster tails baked to perfection with a hint of garlic and lemon.
Perfectly Pan Fried Whole Trout
Experience the simple pleasure of perfectly pan-fried whole trout with a crispy skin and tender, flaky interior.
Easy Broiled Lobster Tails
Delicious and succulent lobster tails broiled to perfection with a buttery garlic sauce, perfect for a special dinner at home.
Perfectly Baked Scallops with Garlic Butter
Tender baked scallops in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Perfectly Cooked Trout with Lemon Herb Butter
Discover how to cook trout to perfection with a zesty lemon herb butter sauce. Ideal for seafood lovers seeking a simple yet delicious meal.
Kitchen & BBQ gear
What we use for recipes like this
Kitchen Appliances · Blenders
Starfrit 1.5L Glass Blender, 450W, Stainless Steel Blades, 2 Speeds & Pulse
$49.99
Kitchen Organisation · Drawer Organisers
Ceecysaa Cutlery Organizer with 2 Removable Knife Blocks, Expandable Utensil Tray,Adjustable Cutlery Tray Drawer Organizer for Spoons, Knives, Kitchen Organizers and Storage,ABS,Black(6-9 Slots)
$21.05
Pit Boss Grills
Pecan Blend Hardwood Pellets
$12.99
Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.