The holiday season is a time for warmth, celebration, and indulgence in culinary delights. And what could be more indulgent than a beautifully prepared Maine lobster? A lobster dish on your Christmas table not only adds a touch of elegance but also offers a delicious departure from traditional holiday fare. Here’s how you can prepare the perfect lobster for a memorable Christmas feast.
Choosing Your Lobster
The journey to a perfect lobster dish begins with selecting the right lobster. Freshness is key, so source your lobster from reputable suppliers like Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. If you’re not near the coast, consider ordering live lobsters to be shipped overnight. For Christmas, larger lobsters make for a grander presentation and have the added benefit of more succulent meat.
Preparing Your Lobster
There are several ways to prepare lobster, but two popular methods are boiling and steaming. Both methods are relatively simple and preserve the natural flavor and tenderness of the lobster.
Boiling Your Lobster
- Fill a Large Pot with Water: The rule of thumb is to use about 2.5 quarts of water for each pound of lobster. Add 2 tablespoons of sea salt for each quart of water.
- Bring the Water to a Rolling Boil: Once boiling, carefully add the lobsters one at a time, headfirst.
- Cooking Time: Generally, boil a 1-1.5 lb. lobster for about 12-15 minutes. For larger lobsters, add an additional minute for each additional quarter pound.
- Check for Doneness: The lobsters are done when their shells are bright red and the antennae can be pulled off easily.
Steaming Your Lobster
- Fill Pot with Water: Add about two inches of salted water to a large pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Bring the Water to a Boil: Place a steaming rack inside the pot and then place the lobsters on the rack.
- Cover and Steam: A 1-1.5 lb. lobster will typically take 15-20 minutes to steam. Larger lobsters will need more time.
- Check for Doneness: Look for a bright red shell and opaque, firm meat.
Serving Your Lobster
Once your lobster is cooked, it’s time to think about presentation and accompaniments. Serve the lobster whole for a dramatic table centerpiece or remove the meat from the shell for a more refined dish.
Classic Whole Lobster
- Presentation: Place the whole lobster on a serving platter adorned with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
- Accompaniments: Serve with melted butter, lemon slices, and perhaps a light mayonnaise or aioli.
Lobster Tail Medallions
- Remove the Meat: Use kitchen shears to cut the shell and gently remove the tail meat.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the tail meat into medallions and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle with melted butter and a sprinkle of herbs.
Side Dishes
Lobster pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich flavor.
- Fresh Salads: A light, green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can balance the richness of the lobster.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for a festive touch.
- Potatoes: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or even a creamy potato gratin are excellent choices.
Wine Pairing
A well-chosen wine can enhance the flavors of your lobster. Opt for a crisp, dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer red, choose a light, fruity variety like Pinot Noir.
Conclusion
Preparing the perfect lobster for Christmas doesn’t have to be complicated. With fresh, quality lobster and a few thoughtful touches in preparation and presentation, you can create a festive and luxurious dish that will be the highlight of your holiday table.
For the freshest Maine lobsters, perfect for your holiday celebrations, contact Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. at 1.800.967.4268. We provide the finest seafood selections, delivered right to your door, ensuring your Christmas feast is as delightful and stress-free as possible. Happy holidays and happy cooking!
