Steamed Lobster Tails Recipe
Lobster tails are a luxurious yet simple dish you can make at home. If you’ve never tried cooking lobster before, steaming is one of the easiest and most foolproof methods. Steamed lobster tails are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. This method also keeps the meat moist and enhances its natural sweetness.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect steamed lobster tails at home with simple steps. We’ll also answer common questions to make sure your lobster tails turn out just right.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Steamed Lobster Tails?
Steaming is a gentle cooking method that prevents the lobster meat from drying out. Unlike boiling, where the lobster sits directly in water, steamed lobster tails allows the meat to cook through steam, keeping the flavors intact. Steamed lobster tails are also healthier since they retain more nutrients compared to boiling.
Additionally, steamed lobster tails makes it easier to control the cooking process, reducing the chances of overcooking. Overcooked lobster meat can become tough and chewy, but steaming helps maintain the perfect texture.
What You Need to Steam Lobster Tails
Before you start, gather the following:
- Fresh or frozen lobster tails
- A large pot with a steamer basket
- Water
- Butter (for serving)
- Lemon wedges
- Garlic, herbs, or seasoning (optional)
If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for 30 minutes. Make sure they are fully thawed before cooking to ensure even steaming.
How to Steam Lobster Tails
Follow these easy steps to make perfect steamed lobster tails at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
If the shells are intact, use kitchen scissors to cut through the top of the shell. This helps the steam reach the meat. Then, gently pull the shell apart to expose the lobster meat without removing it. Lastly, rinse the lobster tails under cold water to remove any grit. Moreover, some people like to season the lobster meat lightly before steaming. You can brush a little butter, sprinkle some garlic powder, or add a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Steaming Pot
Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water. Next, place a steamer basket inside the pot, making sure the water does not touch the basket. Now, Bring the water to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. You can also add aromatics like bay leaves, lemon slices, or garlic cloves to the water for a subtle infusion of flavor.
Tips for the Best Steamed Lobster Tails
- Use fresh lobster. Fresh ones provide for the best taste. If using frozen ones, make sure they are fully thawed before steaming.
- Don’t overcook the lobster. Overcooked lobster meat becomes tough and rubbery.
- Serve immediately. It provides the best texture and flavor. Lobster tastes best when eaten right after steaming.
- Experiment with flavors. While simple butter and lemon are classic, you can also try dipping the lobster meat in garlic butter or serving it with a light herb sauce.
- Pair it with complementary sides. Steamed lobster tails go well with mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a simple green salad.
- Use kitchen scissors to prepare the tails. This makes it easier to remove the shell and allows for better presentation.
- For extra tenderness, marinate the lobster meat in butter before steaming. This will enhance its natural juiciness and flavor.
Step 3: Steam the Lobster Tails
Place the lobster tails in the steamer basket with the meat facing up. Remember to cover the pot with a lid and let the lobster tails steam. Now, the cooking time depends on the size of the tails, so keep an eye accordingly. Once done, remove the steamed lobster tails and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the steamed lobster tails with melted butter and lemon wedges. However, you can also add garlic butter or sprinkle fresh herbs for extra flavor. To top it all off, pair your lobster tails with a side of rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Different Ways to Serve Steamed Lobster Tails
Steamed lobster tails are delicious on their own, but there are many ways to serve them for a more exciting meal:
- With pasta: Toss lobster meat with butter, garlic, and linguine for a creamy lobster pasta dish.
- In tacos: Chop the lobster meat and serve it in soft tortillas with avocado, slaw, and a squeeze of lime.
- On a salad: Slice the steamed lobster tails and add them to a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
- With steak: Make a classic surf and turf meal by pairing lobster tails with a grilled steak.
Best Side Dishes for Steamed Lobster Tails
Lobster tails pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Butter Asparagus: A simple and elegant side that complements the rich lobster
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and delicious choice.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of grilled corn pairs perfectly with steamed lobster tails.
- Caesar Salad: A light and refreshing salad balances out the richness of the lobster.
- Steamed Rice or Quinoa: A great option if you prefer a lighter side dish.
frequently asked questions
How long should I steam a lobster per pound?
Do I need to add seasoning to the steaming water?
Adding seasoning to the steaming water is optional. Some people like to add salt, lemon slices, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor. However, because the lobster meat is naturally sweet and rich, it doesn’t require much seasoning. If you want a deeper flavor, consider brushing the steamed lobster tails with garlic butter or serving them with a dipping sauce.
How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked?
Steamed lobster tails turn bright red when fully cooked. The meat should be opaque and white, not translucent. If you have a food thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C). Overcooking can make the meat tough, so it’s important to remove the lobster from the steamer as soon as it reaches the right temperature.
Can I steam lobster tails instead of whole lobsters?
Steamed lobster tails are a great alternative to steaming a whole lobster. It’s easier to handle and takes less time. Plus, lobster tails are more widely available in stores compared to whole lobsters. Steaming is also ideal if you’re cooking for a smaller group or want a more manageable serving size.
