Citrus Herb Infused Boiled Lobster

πŸ•’ Prep: 10 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 2
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If you've ever wanted to feel like a gourmet chef at home, this Citrus Herb Infused Boiled Lobster is your ticket. With fresh citrus and herbs, this dish is not only simple to prepare but bursts with flavor, making it perfect for a special occasion or just a fancy weeknight treat.

Ingredients for Citrus Herb Infused Boiled Lobster

The star of this dish is, of course, the lobster. Fresh lobster gives you the best texture and flavor, so try to get them live if possible. The water acts as the cooking medium, and by infusing it, every bit of the lobster gets seasoned. Sea salt enhances all the natural flavors, while the lemons and orange add a delightful citrus zing that complements the sweet lobster meat. The fresh thyme and parsley bring a lovely herbal note, and garlic gives a subtle savory depth. Finally, unsalted butter, melted and served on the side, provides a rich, velvety finish to each bite.

Tips & Tricks

  • Always use fresh, live lobsters for the best flavor and texture.
  • To humanely kill the lobsters before boiling, place them in the freezer for 15-20 minutes.
  • Use a large enough pot to allow the lobsters to move freely in the boiling water.
  • Don't skip the citrus; it really elevates the lobster's natural sweetness.
  • If you have leftovers, remove the meat from the shell and store it in the fridge for up to two days.

Serving Suggestions

This lobster dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad and a side of roasted potatoes or crusty bread. A chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the citrus notes perfectly. For a touch of decadence, consider serving with a side of garlic butter asparagus or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and Parmesan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen lobsters?
Fresh live lobsters are best for this recipe, but if you must use frozen, make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
How do I know when the lobster is cooked?
The shell will be bright red, and the tail will curl tightly. The internal temperature should reach 135Β°F (57Β°C).
Can I reuse the cooking broth?
Yes, the broth can be strained and used as a base for seafood soups or stews, adding a wonderful depth of flavor.

Citrus Herb Infused Boiled Lobster Recipe Walkthrough

Start by filling a large pot with about a gallon of water and set it on your stove over high heat. You want to bring this to a rolling boil β€” think of it as creating a spa for your lobsters, one that’s infused with aromatic goodness.

Once boiling, add in your sea salt, quarters of lemon and orange, sprigs of thyme and parsley, and those smashed garlic cloves. This infusion transforms your boiling water into a flavorful broth that will seep into the lobster as it cooks. Give it a minute for the aromas to blend and the water to return to a rolling boil.

Now, the main event: gently grab your lobsters and, with a firm but careful hand, place them headfirst into the pot. Cover the pot and let the water return to a boil. This ensures even cooking. Boil the lobsters for about 12 to 15 minutes. You'll know they're ready when their shells turn a bright red and the tails curl up tightly.

Once cooked, use tongs to carefully lift the lobsters out of the pot. Let them cool slightly for a minute or two. This resting time helps the meat settle, making it easier to handle. Serve immediately, paired with melted butter for dipping.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy preparation without sacrificing flavor.
  • Elevates lobster with fresh, vibrant ingredients.
  • Impressive dish that requires minimal culinary skill.
  • Perfect for a special dinner or celebratory meal.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients you might already have.

Ingredients

2 whole lobsters (about 1.5 lbs each)
1 gallon water
1 cup sea salt
2 lemons, quartered
1 orange, quartered
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 bunch fresh parsley
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 stick unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add sea salt, lemons, orange, thyme, parsley, and garlic to the boiling water.
3. Carefully place the lobsters headfirst into the pot, cover, and return to a boil.
4. Boil the lobsters for 12-15 minutes, until they turn bright red and the tails curl tightly.
5. Remove the lobsters using tongs and let them cool slightly.
6. Serve immediately with melted butter on the side.

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