Steaming Lobster: Power Pressure Cooker Magic

Lobster is a luxurious treat, but cooking it at home can be intimidating. One way to prepare it is by steaming it in a pressure cooker, which creates a moist environment that helps to penetrate the lobster's exoskeleton. This method is also quicker than other cooking methods and helps to preserve the fresh flavour of the lobster.

How to prepare lobster for steaming

Preparing lobster for steaming is simple, but it does require a few steps to ensure the best results. Here is a guide on how to prepare lobster for steaming:

Firstly, choose a suitable pot for steaming. It is important to select a pot that is large enough to comfortably accommodate all the lobsters without crowding them. For example, a 4- to 5-gallon pot can typically hold 6 to 8 pounds of lobsters.

Next, fill the pot with 2–3 inches of water. It is recommended to use seawater or salted water to enhance the flavour of the lobster meat. Some people also like to add seaweed to the water for extra flavour.

After that, place a steaming rack or a vegetable steamer inside the pot. This step is optional, as the lobsters can be steamed without a rack, but it helps to keep them from getting charred on the bottom of the pot.

Now, you can bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. It is important to ensure that the water is at a rolling boil before adding the lobsters.

Once the water is boiling, it's time to add the lobsters. Carefully add the live lobsters one at a time, covering the pot after each addition. If the lobsters have rubber bands on their claws, it is recommended to keep them on for safety. However, some people prefer to remove the bands before cooking, as they believe it imparts an off-taste to the water and the lobster.

At this point, you can start timing the steaming process. The recommended steaming time varies depending on the weight of the lobsters. A good rule of thumb is to steam the lobsters for about 10 minutes per pound. However, it is important to note that the shell turning bright red is not always the best indicator of doneness, especially for larger lobsters. To ensure doneness, crack open one lobster where the carapace meets the tail and check if the meat has turned from translucent to white.

During the steaming process, it is a good idea to lift the lid halfway through and shift the lobsters around to ensure even cooking.

Once the lobsters are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the pot using tongs or gloves. You can either cool them off in an ice bath or let them chill for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Finally, serve the steamed lobster with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your perfectly steamed lobster!

The best type of pressure cooker to use

When it comes to steaming lobster, a pressure cooker can be a great option, offering a super-heated moist environment that helps to penetrate the lobster's exoskeleton and preserve its fresh flavour. While it is possible to steam lobster in a power pressure cooker, there are a few things to consider when choosing the best type of pressure cooker for the job.

Firstly, size matters. A 6-quart pressure cooker will work for steaming lobster, but it will be a tight fit, even for just one lobster. If you have an 8-quart pressure cooker, it will be much easier to fit the lobster inside without having to wrestle with it. With an 8-quart or larger pressure cooker, you can cook two, or maybe even three lobsters at once.

Secondly, it is important to follow the manufacturer's directions and warnings when using a pressure cooker, as misuse can cause serious injury. Make sure you know how to release the pressure safely, as this can be dangerous if done incorrectly.

In terms of specific models, the Instant Pot is a popular choice for steaming lobster and has been used successfully by many home cooks. It is also a versatile option, as it can be used for a variety of other dishes. Another option is the Ninja Foodi, which can also be used for pressure cooking lobster tails.

When it comes to accessories, a trivet or steaming rack is essential for elevating the lobster above the water in the pressure cooker. Kitchen shears or a sharp knife are also useful for cutting open the lobster tail if you are cooking lobster tails rather than whole lobsters.

Finally, it is worth noting that while frozen lobster tails can be used, fresh lobster is generally considered to have a better flavour. If you do use frozen lobster tails, it is best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to avoid rushing the thawing process, which can affect the texture of the meat.

How long to steam lobster for

Yes, lobster can be steamed in a power pressure cooker. The cooking time will depend on the size of the lobster and the weight of the lobster. Here is a guide to help you determine the ideal cooking time for your lobster:

How Long to Steam Lobster

Lobster cooking time can vary depending on one crucial factor: size. Unlike chicken, beef, or pork, you cannot easily check the internal temperature of a lobster. Here is a guide for how long to steam a lobster for the best results:

• For a 1-pound lobster, steam for 8 minutes.
• For a 2-pound lobster, steam for 13 minutes.
• For a 3-pound lobster, steam for 17 minutes.
• For a 4-pound lobster, steam for 21 minutes.
• For a 5-pound lobster, steam for 25 minutes.

For lobsters that are in between these weights, a good rule of thumb is to add 4 minutes of cooking time for each additional pound. For example, if you have a 1.5-pound lobster, you would steam it for 12 minutes (8 minutes for the first pound + 4 minutes for the additional half-pound).

It's important to note that the cooking time may also depend on the time of year. In the winter, lobsters have harder shells and require a bit more cooking time. In the summer, lobsters have softer shells and require less cooking time.

Additionally, if you are cooking multiple lobsters at once, be sure to rearrange them halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. Try to use lobsters that are similar in weight to make this process easier.

When steaming lobster, it's also crucial to use a large pot to avoid overcrowding. A good rule of thumb is to use a 4- to 5-gallon pot for 6 to 8 pounds of lobster. This will ensure that the heat circulates evenly around the lobsters.

How to serve steamed lobster

Preparation

Before serving steamed lobster, there are a few preparation steps to consider. Firstly, it is recommended to keep the lobsters refrigerated prior to cooking, as this slows down their reflexes and makes them easier to handle. Additionally, it is important to remove the rubber bands from the claws before steaming, as these can add an off-taste to the meat. However, if you are nervous about the claws, you can leave the rubber bands on during cooking and remove them before serving.

Cooking

When it comes to cooking the lobster, there are a few methods you can use. One popular method is to fill a large pot with about 2-3 inches of water, adding salt and other flavourings such as lemon juice or alcohol. Bring the water to a boil and place a steam basket or rack at the bottom. You can then add the lobsters, covering the pot and cooking according to the size of the lobsters. As a guide, a 1.25-1.5-pound lobster will take around 10 minutes to cook, with an additional 2 minutes for every additional quarter-pound.

Alternatively, you can use a pressure cooker, which creates a super-heated moist environment that is ideal for cooking lobster. Simply pour boiling water into the pressure cooker, adding dried seaweed for extra flavour if desired. Place the lobster inside, secure the lid, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to reach high pressure. Once high pressure is achieved, reduce the heat and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Release the pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions, being careful to vent the steam away from your hands and face.

Serving

Once the lobster is cooked, you can serve it whole with melted butter for dipping, or remove the meat from the shells and use it in another recipe such as lobster rolls. If serving whole, be sure to provide tools for your guests to remove the meat from the shells, such as picks, crackers, and dish towels. You can also serve the lobster with sides such as corn and potatoes, or use the leftover shells to make a lobster broth.

How to make a dipping sauce for steamed lobster

Steamed lobster is a delicious treat, and making it in a pressure cooker is a great way to preserve its fresh flavour. But what about a dipping sauce to go with it? Here are some ideas for how to make a delicious dipping sauce for steamed lobster.

Lemon and Herb Butter

A classic and simple option is to go for a lemon and herb butter sauce. Melt a stick of butter and add the juice of a quarter of a lemon and two tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. You could also add some dried or fresh cilantro and garlic to taste. This is a bright and fresh sauce that will complement the sweetness of the lobster.

Mustard and Citrus

For something with a little more kick, try a mustard and citrus sauce. You can use apricot, red pepper, or Dijon mustard with the zest and juice of a lemon, lime, or orange. This sauce will cut through the richness of the lobster with its sharp and tangy flavour.

Asian-Inspired Sauce

For an Asian twist, try a soy-ginger sauce. Mix together soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and rice wine vinegar, with a little sugar to taste. This sauce will have a delicate balance of sweet and savoury flavours that will enhance the lobster without overwhelming it.

Spicy Avocado Dip

If you're looking for something with a bit of a kick, try a spicy avocado dip. Blend Greek yogurt, hot sauce, and fresh chilli with avocado for a creamy, spicy, and refreshing dip that will cool down the palate after the rich lobster.

Cheese Fondue

For a retro-inspired option, go for a cheese fondue. Melt some cheese and add a little crispy bacon for a savoury and indulgent dipping sauce. This is a fun and interactive option that your guests will love.

Clarified Butter

Sometimes simple is best, and you can't get much simpler than clarified butter. Melt butter over low heat and skim off the foamy layer that forms on top. Brush this over your steamed lobster for a classic and elegant dish.

Frequently asked questions