There’s nothing more exciting than sitting down with family or friends for a delicious lobster feast. The anticipation of cracking open a perfectly cooked lobster and savoring its sweet, tender meat is a special experience. However, there’s nothing worse than clearing your plate and still feeling hungry or leaving untouched lobster meat because your eyes are bigger than your stomach. So, how do you choose the right size lobster to purchase?
Next time you plan a lobster feast, follow these simple guidelines to ensure you pick the perfect size for every guest!
Individual Lobsters for a Better Experience
While sharing may be tempting, each person should have their own lobster for two reasons. First, larger lobsters have a higher percentage of meat, so they weigh more and cost more. Secondly, everyone should be able to enjoy every part of their lobster. After all, part of the joy of eating lobster is cracking open the shell and savoring each bite. Giving each person their own lobster ensures they get the full experience without having to compromise.
Choosing the Lobster Size Based on Appetite
It may seem obvious, but many people forget that they should buy their lobster based on how much they realistically think they can eat. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you choose the right size:
For Smaller Appetites: The “Half Lobster” (1 to 1.5 pounds)
For those with a smaller appetite, consider what is commonly called a “half lobster.” These lobsters are not cut in half; they are whole lobsters that typically weigh around 1 to 1.5 pounds. They provide enough meat for a satisfying meal without being overwhelming. This size is perfect for those new to eating lobster or light eaters who want to enjoy lobster without feeling too full.
For Average Eaters: The “Deuce” (2 pounds)
A two-pound lobster, known as a “deuce,” is an excellent choice for those with an average appetite. This size is considered the sweet spot for many lobster lovers, offering plenty of meat without being overly large. A deuce is great for special occasions or when you want to indulge a bit more. While they are slightly more expensive than smaller lobsters, the extra cost is often well worth it for the extra meat and flavor.
For Big Appetites: The “Jumbo Lobster” (3 pounds or more)
For those with a big appetite or those looking to truly indulge, a jumbo lobster weighing three pounds or more is the way to go. These large lobsters are ideal for hearty eaters who want a luxurious seafood experience. They are perfect for celebratory meals like Father’s Day feasts, family gatherings, or lobster-loving events. Jumbo lobsters offer a lot of meat and are often sweeter, making them a special treat. Keep in mind that larger lobsters can be more expensive, but they provide a memorable dining experience.
Other Lobster Considerations
If you are planning to enjoy lobster in a different way—such as in lobster rolls, scampi, lobster mac and cheese, or salads—consider purchasing fresh-cooked lobster meat without the shells. This option saves time and effort, allowing you to focus on preparing the dish rather than cracking shells. Buying pre-cooked meat is also a great way to save money while still enjoying lobster’s sweet, tender flavor.
Additionally, if you aren’t focused on presentation and are looking to save on costs, consider buying culls. Culls are lobsters that are missing one claw but are otherwise perfectly healthy and delicious. Since they are slightly damaged, they are often sold at a reduced price. This is a fantastic option if you plan to use lobster meat in a recipe where presentation is less important.
If you’re looking for high-quality Maine lobster for your next meal, Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. offers some of the best options available. With a range of sizes to suit any appetite, freshly cooked lobster meat, and great prices, you can find exactly what you need for a memorable lobster feast!
Visit us online today and call 1-800-967-4268 to order fresh Maine lobster delivered right to your door and enjoy the ultimate seafood experience!
