Steaming Already-Cooked Lobster Claws: How Long?

Lobster claws are a delicacy, and can be boiled, grilled, baked, broiled, or steamed. If you're steaming already-cooked lobster claws, you'll need to thaw them first. Fill a large pot two-thirds full with water and bring it to a boil. Place the claws in a steamer basket, then put the basket in the pot, cover, and steam for around five minutes, or until they're heated through. You'll know they're done when the shells are bright red and the meat is opaque and white.

How to steam already cooked lobster claws

Steaming already-cooked lobster claws is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Preparation

If your lobster claws are frozen, it is best to thaw them before steaming. Leave them in the refrigerator overnight to defrost slowly and gradually. If you are short on time, place the claws in a sealed plastic bag and run them under warm water.

Steaming

Fill a large pot with water. The amount of water will depend on the number of lobster claws you plan to steam. As a general rule, fill the pot two-thirds or three-quarters of the way full. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Place a steamer basket inside the pot. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use a metal colander or a heat-proof dish or bowl. Make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the steamer basket or the lobster claws.

Add a tablespoon of salt to the water. You can also add other ingredients to infuse flavour into the lobster, such as lemon juice, thyme, or bay leaves.

Place the lobster claws in the steamer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer and not stacked on top of each other. Cover the pot with a lid.

Cooking

Steam the lobster claws for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and number of claws. For the first pound of lobster, steam for 9 minutes, then add 4 minutes for each additional pound.

The lobster claws are cooked when they turn bright red and the meat inside is opaque and white. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Serving

Remove the lobster claws from the pot using tongs. Serve the steamed lobster claws with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!

How long to steam already cooked lobster claws

Lobster claws are a delicacy that can be boiled, grilled, baked, broiled, or steamed. If you're steaming already-cooked lobster claws, you won't need to steam them for as long as you would fresh lobster.

First, if your lobster claws are frozen, you'll need to thaw them. Leave them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, or place them in a sealed, airtight plastic bag and run them under warm water.

Next, fill a large pot with water. The amount of water you use will depend on how many lobster claws you're steaming, but the pot should be around two-thirds or three-quarters full. Bring the water to a boil.

While you're waiting for the water to boil, prepare your lobster claws. Place them in a steamer basket, which will go inside the pot. If you don't have a steamer basket, you can put the claws directly into the pot.

Once the water is boiling, place the steamer basket inside the pot and put the lid on. Steam the lobster claws for around five minutes, or until they're thoroughly heated. You'll know they're done when the shells turn bright red and the meat inside is opaque and white. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the lobster has reached a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Finally, remove the lobster claws from the pot using tongs and serve with lemon wedges and melted butter.

It's important to note that already-cooked lobster doesn't reheat well and can become rubbery. If you're reheating cooked lobster, it's best to consume it within a day or two, and avoid putting it back in the freezer.

Cooking times for already cooked lobster claws

Lobster claws are a delicacy that can be boiled, grilled, baked, or broiled. If you're reheating already-cooked lobster claws, it's important to do so quickly to avoid overcooking the meat. Here are some common methods for reheating cooked lobster claws:

Steaming

Fill a large pot with water, leaving enough room for a steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil. Place the lobster claws in the steamer basket and cover the pot. Steam the claws for about 5 minutes or until they are thoroughly heated. You'll know they're done when they turn bright red and the meat inside is opaque and white. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the lobster reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Boiling

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the lobster claws directly into the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes or until they are heated through. As with steaming, the lobster claws will be done when they turn bright red and the meat is opaque and white.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Wrap the lobster claws in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet or pan. Bake for 5 to 10 minutes. Remove the claws from the oven and unwrap them before serving.

Grilling

If you're looking to add a smoky char to your lobster claws, grilling is a great option. First, clean the lobster claws and remove any residual tomalley (green substance). Brush the claws with a mixture of butter, salt, and lemon. Place the claws on a preheated grill at medium heat (about 350 degrees Fahrenheit) and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the thickest part of the meat turns opaque.

Regardless of the method you choose, it's important to remember that lobster claws are sold pre-cooked and do not need to be cooked for a long time. Overcooking can result in rubbery and tough meat.

Reheating already cooked lobster claws

Already cooked lobster claws can be reheated in several ways, including steaming, using an oven, stovetop, grill, or microwave.

Steaming

To reheat already cooked lobster claws by steaming, fill a large pot two-thirds full with water and bring it to a boil. Place the lobster claws in a steamer basket and then place the basket inside the pot of boiling water. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the lobster claws for around five minutes or until they are thoroughly heated. Remove the claws from the pot with tongs when they turn bright red, and the meat inside is opaque and white.

Oven

To reheat already cooked lobster claws in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap the claws in aluminum foil and place them on a baking pan or sheet. Heat the lobster claws in the oven for around 10 minutes or until they are warmed through.

Stovetop

If you're short on time, you can also reheat already cooked lobster claws on the stovetop in about 15 minutes. Choose a saucepan or skillet that's big enough to heat the lobster evenly. Pour some stock or broth into the pan and bring it to a simmer. You can also add some butter for extra flavor and moisture. Once the stock is simmering, add the lobster claws and heat for about 10 minutes, then add some more butter before serving.

Grill

For grilled food lovers, you can also reheat already cooked lobster claws on a grill. Preheat your grill on high. If the lobster is out of its shell, lightly coat it with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. If the lobster is still in its shell, place it on the grill with the shell side down and do not flip it over. Grill until the lobster is thoroughly heated through, then remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly before serving.

Microwave

When you're in a hurry, the microwave is your best option for quickly reheating already cooked lobster claws. Remove the lobster meat from the shell and wrap it in a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat the lobster in the microwave in three- to five-minute increments until it's thoroughly heated.

Tips for reheating lobster

• Lobster is fully cooked, so gentle heat is key when reheating to avoid overcooking.
• To prevent the lobster from drying out, heat it in any leftover sauce, or add stock or butter.
• If reheating a whole lobster, cut it in half first to reduce the heating time.
• Cooked lobster can be refrigerated for up to two days before reheating. Store it in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
• Cooked lobster can also be frozen for later reheating, but the texture may change. It can be stored in the freezer for up to two to three months.
• It's best to reheat cooked lobster only once to avoid overcooking and the risk of bacterial growth.

Serving suggestions for already cooked lobster claws

Lobster claws are a delicacy that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions for already cooked lobster claws:

Lobster Claws with Butter

Melted butter is a classic accompaniment to lobster claws. Simply melt some butter and serve it alongside the claws for dipping. The butter enhances the sweetness of the lobster meat and adds a creamy texture.

Lobster Claws with Lemon Wedges

Lemon is a traditional pairing with lobster, as its acidity brightens and complements the sweet and succulent lobster meat. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the lobster claws or serve them with lemon wedges on the side.

Lobster Claws in a Salad

For a refreshing and flavourful dish, chop the lobster meat and add it to a salad. The crispness of the vegetables and the tenderness of the lobster create a delightful contrast in textures. A light vinaigrette or citrus dressing can further enhance the flavours.

Lobster Claws with Garlic Sauce

Prepare a mouthwatering garlic sauce to drizzle over the lobster claws. The pungent and savoury notes of garlic add depth and flavour to the lobster, creating an indulgent and satisfying dish.

Lobster Claw Bisque

For a more intricate dish, try making a lobster claw bisque. This creamy and rich soup showcases the delicate flavour of lobster and can be a sophisticated and elegant starter or main course.

Lobster Claw and Avocado Salad

Combine lobster claws with avocado for a luxurious twist on a classic salad. The creamy avocado complements the sweet lobster meat, creating a refreshing and indulgent dish perfect for a light lunch.

These suggestions provide just a glimpse of the possibilities when serving already cooked lobster claws. Whether served as a standalone dish or incorporated into a larger meal, lobster claws offer a delectable and indulgent culinary experience.

Frequently asked questions