Steaming Succulent Lobster Tails: A Quick Frozen Feast

Cooking lobster tails at home can be intimidating, but it's a rewarding experience that will make you feel like a superhero. Lobster is regarded as the most elegant, high-end type of seafood and is often reserved for special occasions at pricey restaurants. The good news is that you can skip the restaurant and cook lobster tails at home by boiling, steaming, baking, broiling, or grilling them.

Steaming is an excellent option when dealing with whole, butterflied, or split lobster tails. This cooking method is faster than boiling and is arguably the most traditional. It also minimizes direct water contact, keeps the meat tender, and enhances flavor retention.

If you want to steam frozen lobster tails, you'll first need to thaw them. The ideal way to do this is to leave them in the fridge overnight, which allows for a slow and safe thawing process. Avoid thawing lobster tails at room temperature, as it can increase the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage. If you're in a hurry, you can use the cold-water method by placing the lobster tails in a sealed, watertight plastic bag and submerging them in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until they're fully thawed.

Once your lobster tails are thawed, you can start the steaming process. Here's a simple guide on how to do it:

- Begin by adding about 1-2 inches of water to a pot and bringing it to a boil.

- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add a steamer basket or an upturned colander and place the lobster tails on top, ensuring they're not submerged in the water.

- Cover the pot and steam the lobster tails for about 45-60 seconds per ounce, or until the shells turn bright red and the meat is opaque.

- Remove the lobster tails from the pot and serve with melted butter and lemon wedges, or your favorite seasonings.

How to steam frozen lobster tails

Steaming frozen lobster tails is a great way to cook them, and it's faster than boiling. It's also arguably the most traditional way to cook lobster tails. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails for Thawing

It is best to thaw frozen lobster tails slowly by placing them in the refrigerator overnight. This will help keep the meat tender and tasty. Place your frozen lobster tails on a plate or baking sheet, covered, so they thaw slowly and evenly. If you need to defrost the lobster tails quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 15-30 minutes until they are fully thawed.

Step 2: Clean the Lobster Tails

Once the lobster tails are thawed, you need to clean them. Rinse the shells, then decide how you want to split the lobster tail to expose the meat. You will also need to remove the vein (digestive tract) that runs down the centre. The easiest way to do this is to use the tip of a small knife to lift it away from the meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Steamer

Add about 1-2 inches of water to a large pot and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket or an upturned colander inside the pot, ensuring it doesn't touch the water.

Step 4: Steam the Lobster Tails

Once the water is boiling, carefully place the lobster tails inside the colander or basket. Cover the pot and steam the lobster tails for about 45-60 seconds per ounce, or until the shells turn bright red and the meat is opaque. Be careful not to overcook the lobster tails, as this can happen quickly.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the lobster tails from the pot using tongs or gloves to avoid overcooking. Serve with melted butter and enjoy!

How to prepare lobster tails for steaming

Steaming lobster tails is a great way to cook them, as it minimises direct water contact, keeps the meat tender, and enhances flavour retention. It is also a simple and speedy process, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

If you are using frozen lobster tails, it is important to thaw them properly before steaming. The best way to do this is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight, which allows for a slow and safe thawing process. Avoid thawing lobster tails at room temperature, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage. If you need to thaw your lobster tails faster, use the cold-water method: place the tails in a sealed, watertight plastic bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until they are fully thawed.

Once your lobster tails are thawed, you can prepare them for steaming. First, use a sharp knife to cut each tail in half lengthwise. Then, rinse the tails briefly under cold water to remove any grit or shell fragments.

To steam the lobster tails, you will need a large pot or deep skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Bring about one inch of water to a boil in the pot, and place a steamer basket or an upturned colander inside so that it is just above the water level. Place the lobster tails, cut-side up, in the basket or colander, cover the pot, and steam until the meat is just opaque and plump. This should take around 5 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the tails. Be careful not to overcook the lobster, as this will cause the meat to shrink and dry out.

Once the lobster tails are cooked, you can serve them with a variety of sauces, such as melted butter with lemon or garlic, an herb sauce like chimichurri, or a soy sauce-based Asian dipping sauce. Just be sure that the flavours are not too strong or sweet, as they can overwhelm the natural flavour of the lobster.

How long to steam frozen lobster tails

To steam frozen lobster tails, you should first thaw them. The ideal way to do this is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight, which allows for a slow and safe thawing process. If you need to defrost your lobster tails faster, you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 15 to 30 minutes until they are fully thawed.

Once your lobster tails are thawed, you can begin the steaming process. Add 1 to 2 inches of water to a pot and bring it to a boil. You can also add optional flavourings to the water, such as lemon, garlic, butter, parsley, or Old Bay seasoning. Place a steamer basket or an upturned colander in the pot, ensuring the water doesn't touch the basket or colander. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil.

Once the water is boiling, add the lobster tails to the pot and cover. Steam the lobster tails for 5 to 12 minutes, depending on their size. Small to medium tails will take 6 to 8 minutes, while large tails will take 8 to 12 minutes. You can also determine whether the lobster is fully cooked by feeling for firm flesh and looking for an opaque colour. The shells should be bright red, and the internal temperature should reach 140°F to 145°F at the thickest part of the meat.

Once the lobster tails are fully cooked, remove them from the pot using tongs or gloves to prevent overcooking. Serve with drawn butter and enjoy!

What to serve with steamed lobster tails

Now that you've mastered the art of cooking lobster tails, it's time to think about what to serve with them. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal and create a well-rounded dining experience:

• Melted butter: This is the classic accompaniment to lobster tails. It adds a rich, indulgent touch to your dish and is perfect for dipping.
• Clarified butter: If you want to take your butter game up a notch, try clarified butter. It has a higher smoking point than regular butter, making it ideal for cooking or serving with your lobster tails.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over your lobster tails will add a bright, citrusy kick to the dish. It's a simple yet effective way to enhance the flavour.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish your plate with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil. They will not only add a pop of colour but also bring a subtle aroma and freshness to the dish.
• Steamed clams: As an appetizer or side dish, steamed clams are an excellent choice. They are the perfect size for dunking in melted butter, just like your lobster tails.
• Lobster bisque: For a true seafood extravaganza, serve your lobster tails with a creamy and decadent lobster bisque. It's like having two lobster dishes in one meal!
• Greens: Add some colour and crunch to your plate with fresh, steamed broccoli crowns. Season them with salt and pepper, or give them a citrus twist with lemon pepper.
• Mashed potatoes: Buttery, creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that will complement your lobster tails beautifully. They provide a neutral base to balance the rich flavour of the lobster.
• Grilled asparagus: For a touch of elegance and a boost of nutrients, grilled asparagus is an excellent choice. It has a delicate flavour that won't overpower your lobster tails.
• Mac and cheese: For an indulgent and comforting side dish, add chunks of your cooked lobster to a creamy mac and cheese. It's a match made in culinary heaven!
• Champagne or white wine: A chilled glass of champagne or white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, will complement the sweetness of the lobster meat. The fruity notes in the wine will enhance the overall dining experience.

How to steam frozen lobster tails in a beer sauce

Cooking lobster tails can be intimidating, but with the right instructions, you can easily steam frozen lobster tails in a beer sauce. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare this delicious dish.

Ingredients:

• Frozen lobster tails (4-6 oz. each)
• Beer (light lager or pilsner)
• Butter
• Salt
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Cilantro
• Pepper

Step 1: Defrost the Lobster Tails

Place the frozen lobster tails in the refrigerator overnight to defrost slowly and evenly. This will help maintain the best texture. Alternatively, if you're in a hurry, you can submerge the tails in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until they are fully thawed.

Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Tails

Once the lobster tails are thawed, it's time to clean and prepare them for steaming. Rinse the shells and remove the vein that runs down the center. This is the digestive tract, and while it's safe to eat, it's better to remove it as it can have a gritty texture. You can use the tip of a small knife to carefully lift the vein out.

Step 3: Make the Beer Sauce

For the beer sauce, you will need a pot or a large stockpot. Pour about 2 inches of beer into the pot and place it on the stove. You can also use a combination of beer and water if you prefer a milder flavor. Bring the beer to a boil and let it cook for a few minutes to reduce and intensify the flavor.

Step 4: Steam the Lobster Tails

Place a steamer insert or rack inside the pot, making sure it is just above the beer level. You can also use a steaming rack if you have one. Place the prepared lobster tails on the steamer rack and cover the pot tightly with a lid. Steam the lobster tails for about 8-10 minutes, depending on their size. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make the meat tough.

Step 5: Prepare the Butter Sauce

While the lobster tails are steaming, you can make a delicious butter sauce to accompany them. Melt some butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook until lightly browned. Then, add lemon juice, cilantro, and pepper to the melted butter and stir well. Keep the sauce warm over low heat until the lobster tails are ready.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the lobster tails are cooked, remove them from the steamer and serve them with the warm butter sauce on the side. You can also garnish the dish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Enjoy your perfectly cooked lobster tails in beer sauce!

Frequently asked questions