Air Fryer Lobster Tails: Timing For Perfection

Lobster tails in the air fryer are a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook this seafood favourite. But how long do they need to be in the air fryer for?

How to butterfly a lobster tail

To butterfly a lobster tail, you will need a pair of kitchen shears. Start by cutting down the centre of the shell lengthwise, starting from the end opposite the tail fins. Continue cutting until you reach the base of the tail, but be careful not to cut through the bottom shell. Use your thumbs and fingers to spread open the shell on top, then pull the lobster meat upward.

Some recipes suggest running a bamboo skewer through the centre of the flesh lengthwise to prevent curling. You can skip this step and just arrange the lobster meat on top of the shell instead.

How to cook frozen lobster tails in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Lobster tails (frozen)
• Salt and pepper
• Butter (unsalted)
• Garlic cloves
• Paprika
• Parsley

Steps:

• Thaw the lobster tails overnight in the fridge or in a bag submerged in cold water on the counter.
• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F for a few minutes.
• Using kitchen shears, butterfly the lobster tails by cutting down the center of the shell lengthwise. Avoid cutting through the bottom shell.
• Loosen the meat and pull it upward. Season with salt and pepper.
• In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Spread the mixture evenly on each lobster tail.
• Place the lobster tails in the air fryer basket with the meat facing up.
• Cook at 380°F for 5-7 minutes or until the meat is opaque and lightly browned.
• Serve with melted butter and enjoy!

Note: It is not recommended to cook frozen lobster tails in the air fryer as it may lead to uneven cooking. Always thaw the lobster tails before cooking.

How to reheat lobster tails in an air fryer

If you're lucky enough to have any leftover lobster tails, you might be wondering how best to reheat them. While it's true that lobster meat can become tough when reheated, there is a way to do it in an air fryer that will help preserve the lobster's flavour and moisture.

First, preheat your air fryer to 320 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, wrap the lobster tail in foil and place it in the air fryer for around 3-4 minutes.

This method should ensure your lobster tail is warmed through without becoming rubbery.

Tips for Cooking Lobster Tails

• Always buy cold water lobster tails as they have a better taste and are sweeter.
• Avoid lobster tails that have been soaked in sodium tripolyphosphate as these will taste of ammonia.
• Look for lobster tails that are between 5 and 12 ounces as these tend to have a good amount of meat without losing the delicious flavour.
• Don't be afraid to pay a little more for your lobster tails—the higher the quality, the better the taste.
• Try not to overcook the lobster tails. Use a meat thermometer to check the centre of the lobster. It should reach 145F for best results.
• Female lobsters have slightly pink meat once cooked.
• Lobster tails are best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to tell when lobster tails are done

Lobster tails cooked in an air fryer are incredibly tender and delicious. But how can you tell when they're done?

Firstly, it's important to note that the cooking time for lobster tails depends on their size. A good rule of thumb is to cook them for about 1 minute per ounce of individual tail. For example, for 5-ounce tails, cook them for 5-6 minutes. For 10-ounce tails, 10 minutes should be enough.

There are a few telltale signs to look out for that will indicate when your lobster tails are cooked to perfection:

• The meat will be opaque and lightly brown.
• It will be firm to the touch but still slightly springy.
• There should be no visible signs of pink or red.
• If you're using a meat thermometer, the ideal internal temperature is between 135-145°F.

It's important not to overcook lobster tails, as this will affect the texture and taste. So keep a close eye on them and use the above indicators to determine when they're done.

Now you know how to tell when your lobster tails are ready, it's time to enjoy your delicious and tender air-fried lobster tails!

What to serve with air-fried lobster tails

Lobster tails cooked in an air fryer are incredibly tender and delicious. They are usually served with melted butter, lemon-garlic butter, or buttery garlic herb sauce.

• Grilled asparagus
• Biscuits
• Clam chowder
• Salad, such as a spring mix, pear salad, or Caprese salad
• Steak
• Risotto
• Lobster mac and cheese
• Roasted potatoes
• Baked sweet potatoes
• Rutabaga or cauliflower mash
• Sauteed asparagus
• Sauteed zucchini
• Air fryer cauliflower
• Air fryer Brussels sprouts

Frequently asked questions