Steaming Lobster Tails: How Long To Cook Them Perfectly?

Lobster tails are a decadent treat, often reserved for special occasions at fancy restaurants. But did you know that cooking lobster tails at home is simple? There are several ways to cook lobster tails, including boiling, steaming, grilling, and baking. This article will focus on steaming lobster tails and answer the question: how long do you steam lobster tails?

Steaming lobster tails is a great option for those who want to retain the natural flavour of the lobster. It is also a traditional cooking method that is generally faster than other methods. When steaming lobster tails, it is important to use a pot with a tight-fitting lid and a steamer basket or rack to ensure even cooking. The pot should be large enough to allow the steam to circulate around the lobster tails.

So, how long do you steam lobster tails? The cooking time will depend on the size of the lobster tails. As a general rule, it is recommended to steam lobster tails for about 1 minute per ounce of tail meat. For example, a 4-ounce lobster tail should be steamed for about 4 minutes, while an 8-ounce lobster tail should be steamed for about 8 minutes. It is important to note that steaming times may vary depending on the method and the number of lobster tails being cooked. Therefore, it is crucial to keep a close eye on the lobster tails to prevent overcooking.

In conclusion, steaming is an excellent way to cook lobster tails that retains their natural flavour and moisture. By following the recommended steaming times and using the proper equipment, anyone can cook perfect lobster tails at home.

How to steam lobster tails

Steaming lobster tails is a great way to cook them, and it's often considered the most traditional method. It's faster than boiling and helps the tails retain their shape and flavour. Here's how to do it:

Preparation

If your lobster tails are frozen, it's best to thaw them before cooking. The ideal way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight, which allows for a slow and safe process. If you need to thaw them faster, place the tails in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until they're fully thawed.

Once your tails are thawed, use a sharp knife to cut each tail in half lengthwise. Rinse the tails under cold water to remove any grit or shell fragments.

Cooking

Pour about one inch of water into the bottom of a large stockpot and bring it to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt, if desired, and place a steamer insert or basket inside the pot so that it sits just above the water level. Place the tails in the steamer, cut-side up, cover the pot, and steam until the meat is opaque and plump. This should take around 5 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the tails. Be careful not to overcook the tails, as this will cause the meat to shrink and dry out.

Serving

Remove the tails from the steamer and serve them warm with your sauce of choice. Try melted butter with lemon or garlic, an herb sauce like chimichurri, or a soy sauce-based Asian dipping sauce. Just make sure the flavours aren't too strong or sweet, as they can overwhelm the natural taste of the lobster.

How long to steam lobster tails

Steaming lobster tails is a great way to cook them, as it's faster than boiling and arguably the most traditional method. It's important not to overcook the tails, as you'll be cooking at a higher temperature.

To steam lobster tails, you'll need a pot large enough to hold the tails with a tight-fitting lid. Place a steamer basket or an upturned colander in the pot so the tails aren't submerged in the water. Pour in cold water to a depth of about 1-2 inches. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the lobster tails to the pot and cover again.

Steaming time will depend on the size of your lobster tails. As a general rule, it takes about 1 minute per ounce of lobster tail to cook. For example, a 6-7oz lobster tail will take about 6-8 minutes to steam, while an 8-10oz tail will take about 8-10 minutes. You'll know the lobster is done when the meat is opaque and firm, and the shell is bright red.

Once you've reached the approximate cooking time, remove the pot from the heat and check one of the tails. The tails should be completely cooked in the centre. Remove the tails from the pot using tongs or gloves to prevent overcooking. Serve with drawn butter and enjoy!

How to prepare lobster tails for steaming

Preparing lobster tails for steaming is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results. Here is a guide on how to prepare lobster tails for steaming:

Choose the Right Lobster Tails:

Start by selecting good-quality lobster tails. Lobster tails come in a range of sizes and colours, but the most common types are American lobster tails from Maine and spiny lobster or rock lobster tails. American lobster tails are usually sold whole, while spiny lobster tails lack the large, tasty claws of their Northern cousin. When choosing spiny lobster tails, opt for those from cold-water fisheries as they are considered to have better texture and flavour.

Thaw the Lobster Tails:

If you are using frozen lobster tails, it is essential to thaw them before cooking. Place the lobster tails in the refrigerator to thaw overnight, or for at least 8 hours. This slow and safe thawing process ensures that the meat doesn't cling to the shell, making it easier to remove after cooking. Avoid thawing lobster tails at room temperature, as it can increase the risk of bacterial growth.

Prepare the Cooking Equipment:

You will need a large pot or deep skillet with a tight-fitting lid for steaming the lobster tails. Place a steamer basket or an upturned colander inside the pot, ensuring it sits just above the water level. Add about 1 inch of water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Some recipes also suggest adding salt, herbs, or lemon juice to the water for additional flavour.

Prepare the Lobster Tails:

Before placing the lobster tails in the steamer, use a sharp knife to cut each tail in half lengthwise. This step is optional but makes for a nicer presentation and shorter cooking time. Rinse the tails briefly under cold water to remove any grit or shell fragments.

Steaming the Lobster Tails:

Once the water is boiling, carefully place the lobster tails in the steamer basket, ensuring they are not submerged in the water. Cover the pot and start timing. For 4- to 6-ounce lobster tails, steam for 5 to 8 minutes. The tails are done when the meat is opaque and plump. Be careful not to overcook the lobster tails, as this will cause the meat to shrink and dry out.

Serving the Lobster Tails:

Remove the lobster tails from the steamer and serve immediately. Steamed lobster tails pair well with melted butter, lemon wedges, or various sauces like chimichurri or a soy sauce-based dipping sauce. Enjoy your perfectly steamed lobster tails!

What to serve with steamed lobster tails

Steamed lobster tails are a delicious treat, and there are many ways to dress them up and serve them with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your steamed lobster tails and create a well-rounded meal:

Sauces and Seasonings

Lobster tails are often served with melted butter, but you can add some extra flavour by making garlic butter or lemon butter. You can also add some fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to your butter. If you're looking for something lighter, a variety of spices can be used instead of butter. Sea salt and black pepper are a classic duo that enhances the natural taste of lobster. For a smokier flavour, try toasting whole peppercorns and pulverizing them before adding to the dish. Other seasonings like Old Bay, creole seasonings, or Cajun spices can also kick things up a notch.

Appetizers and Sides

Steamed clams are a perfect appetizer or side dish to your lobster tails, especially when dipped in melted butter. A well-prepared lobster bisque is another seafood option that pairs well with steamed lobster. To add some greens to your meal, try steaming broccoli crowns with a dash of salt and pepper, or lemon pepper for a citrusy twist. If you're looking for something heartier, buttery mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus go great with the succulent flavour of lobster. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cucumber slices, tomatoes, and a light dressing will complement the richness of the lobster.

Drinks

A chilled glass of champagne or white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, is an excellent choice to accompany your steamed lobster tails. The fruity notes of these wines complement the richness of the lobster meat.

Desserts

While not mentioned as frequently, you can't go wrong with a classic New York-style cheesecake or a rich, creamy crème brûlée to finish off your lobster feast.

Remember, when preparing your steamed lobster tails, it's crucial not to overcook them, as this can lead to dry and tough meat. Enjoy experimenting with these side dishes and sauces to create a memorable meal!

How to tell when lobster tails are done steaming

There are a few ways to tell when your lobster tails are done steaming. Firstly, the colour of the shell and meat will change. The shell will turn from dark to bright red, and the meat will change from translucent to opaque, with a pinkish-white colour. The meat will also be very plump and firm to the touch.

You can also use a thermometer to check if your lobster is done. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the tail should be between 135 to 140ºF (57 to 63ºC).

It's important to note that the cooking time for lobster tails can vary depending on their size. Most sources recommend steaming for 5 to 8 minutes, but one source suggests that it only takes 45 to 60 seconds of cooking time per ounce. So, depending on the size of your lobster tails, they may be done sooner than you think. It's always better to undercook than overcook, as the meat can quickly become tough and rubbery if overdone.

Finally, remember that steaming is just one of several ways to cook lobster tails. Boiling, baking, grilling, and broiling are also popular methods, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Frequently asked questions