Congratulations on your freshly delivered Maine lobster from Cape Porpoise Lobster Co.! By choosing our lobsters, you’ve guaranteed yourself an authentic taste of Maine’s finest seafood. But once you’ve received your lobster, the question arises: how do you properly store and handle it to preserve its quality? We’ve got you covered.
Arrival and Initial Inspection
First things first. As soon as you receive your lobster, check to ensure it is still alive. Live lobsters will have a tail that naturally curls under or even responds with a flick when touched.
Key things to look out for:
- The tail should curl under the body when lifted.
- The lobster may react and move its claws or legs slightly.
- It should have a fresh, ocean-like smell.
Proper Lobster Storage
Properly storing your lobster is critical to maintaining its freshness. Follow the steps below:
Refrigeration
- Do not freeze your lobster! A common misconception is that freezing lobster will keep it fresh. In reality, freezing can harm the delicate flesh of the lobster, impacting its flavor and texture.
- Instead, place your lobster in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Lobsters prefer cold temperatures and can usually survive for a short period in the fridge before cooking.
Storing Technique
- Dampen some newspaper or a cloth and wrap it around the lobster.
- Place the wrapped lobster in an open container or a ventilated bag in the refrigerator.
- Avoid storing the lobster in freshwater or a sealed container. Freshwater can kill lobsters, and sealed containers can suffocate them.
Safe Handling Techniques
Handling live lobsters requires a bit of care, but it’s not too challenging with a little guidance.
- Always handle lobsters by their body, never by their claws or tail.
- Lobsters have a hard exoskeleton, but their claws can still do damage. Stay clear of them as much as possible.
Preparing for Cooking
When you’re ready to cook your lobster, remove it from the refrigerator 15-30 minutes beforehand. This allows the lobster to adjust to room temperature before it meets the pot, providing a more even cook.
After your lobster has adjusted to room temperature, it’s time to cook. Remember, the best time to cook your lobster is within 24-48 hours of delivery. This ensures maximum freshness and flavor.
If you’re looking to order some fresh Maine lobster delivered to your home, Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. is just a phone call away at 1-800-967-4268. Bon appétit!
