How to Cook Frozen Lobster: A Delicious and Easy Guide

Let's talk lobster! I've always been a bit intimidated by cooking lobster, picturing it as a fancy restaurant affair. But then I realised, why should we be scared of this delicious crustacean? You can absolutely cook delicious lobster at home, even if you're using frozen lobster. It's really much easier than you might think, and the results are seriously impressive.

I'm going to take you through the entire process, from picking the perfect frozen lobster to serving it up like a pro. I'll share my top tips and tricks for making sure it's cooked to absolute perfection, and even give you some ideas for how to use those delicious leftovers. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this guide will have you whipping up a delicious lobster feast in no time!

(Part 1) Picking the Perfect Frozen Lobster

First things first, you need to find some good quality frozen lobster. Don’t worry, it's easy to find in most supermarkets these days. I prefer whole frozen lobsters, as they have more meat. Look for ones that are bright red in colour and have a firm, meaty texture. Avoid any lobsters that are mushy or have any signs of freezer burn.

Now, you've got a choice. You can either thaw it out or cook it frozen. I always recommend thawing, but if you’re short on time, you can cook it frozen.

Thawing a Frozen Lobster

Thawing a frozen lobster is really simple. You can defrost it in the fridge for a few days, or in cold water for a few hours. I find cold water is a great option as it's quick and easy. To thaw a lobster in cold water, simply place it in a large bowl filled with cold water. Make sure the water is cold, not hot, otherwise, the lobster will start to cook before it's fully thawed. It's best to change the water every 30 minutes or so to keep it cold and ensure the lobster thaws evenly. Depending on the size of your lobster, it should take a few hours to thaw completely.

Remember, you want to make sure the lobster is completely thawed before you start cooking. If it's still partially frozen, the meat won't cook evenly, and you might end up with some tough spots.

Cooking Frozen Lobster

If you’re short on time, you can definitely cook lobster frozen. Just make sure you increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure it's cooked through. I always recommend using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature is at least 140°F (60°C).

(Part 2) Preparing the Lobster

Now that you've got your lobster all thawed and ready, it's time to give it a little prep. You need to clean it before you cook it, so let's get this done properly.

Cleaning a Lobster

There are a few different ways to clean a lobster, but I'll share my favourite method. Start by rinsing the lobster under cold water to remove any debris. Now, you need to remove the lobster’s stomach and guts. The stomach is a dark, tube-like thing that runs along the underside of the lobster. You can easily pull it out with your fingers. Removing this is important to prevent any bitterness from the stomach affecting the flavor of the meat.

Next, you need to remove the lobster's head. Grab the head and twist it until it comes off. If you don't fancy eating the head, you can just throw it away. But if you want to use it for stock, that's a great option! You can use the head, along with some shells and other scraps, to make a delicious lobster stock. Just simmer it in water with some aromatics for a few hours, and you'll have a rich and flavorful stock to use in soups, sauces, or even risotto.

Now, you're ready to start cooking!

(Part 3) how to cook lobster: Different Methods

Now for the fun part - cooking the lobster. There are a few different methods you can choose from. I'll share a few of my favourites and the key steps for each method.

1. Steaming Lobster

Steaming lobster is one of the most common and straightforward methods. This method gives a beautifully delicate flavour and helps to keep the meat moist.

Steps for Steaming Lobster

1. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water.
2. Add a steamer basket to the pot.
3. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
4. Place the lobster in the steamer basket.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the lobster for about 12-15 minutes, depending on its size.
6. You can tell it's ready when the shell turns red and the meat is opaque.
7. Remove the lobster from the steamer and let it cool slightly before serving.

For an even more flavourful steam, you can add aromatics like lemon slices, herbs like parsley or dill, or even a bit of white wine to the water. The steam will infuse the lobster with a delightful fragrance and enhance the flavor.

2. boiling lobster

This is another classic way to cook lobster. Boiling it is fast and easy, but I find it doesn’t give the same delicate flavour as steaming. It's a great option if you're looking for a quick and simple way to cook lobster.

Steps for Boiling Lobster

1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the lobster.
2. Add a tablespoon of salt to the water.
3. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
4. Carefully lower the lobster into the boiling water.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and cook the lobster for about 12-15 minutes, depending on its size.
6. You can tell it's ready when the shell turns red and the meat is opaque.
7. Remove the lobster from the boiling water and let it cool slightly before serving.

Just like steaming, you can add aromatics to the boiling water to infuse the lobster with flavor. I love using a bay leaf, a few peppercorns, and a sprig of thyme for a classic lobster flavour.

3. grilling lobster

Grilling lobster is a great way to add some smoky flavour and a lovely char to the meat. It's a great option for outdoor dining.

Steps for Grilling Lobster

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. If you have a gas grill, make sure you have a consistent heat over the entire grilling surface.
3. Brush the lobster with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper.
4. Place the lobster on the grill, flesh side down.
5. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shell turns red and the meat is opaque.
6. Flip the lobster and grill for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove the lobster from the grill and let it cool slightly before serving.

To keep the lobster from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled. For a bit of extra flavour, try grilling the lobster over a bed of aromatic wood chips, like hickory or applewood.

4. baking lobster

Baking lobster is a great way to cook it if you're short on time or don't have a grill. This method is particularly good if you want to stuff the lobster with herbs and butter.

Steps for Baking Lobster

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the lobster on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Brush the lobster with melted butter and season it with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the lobster for about 15-20 minutes, or until the shell turns red and the meat is opaque.
5. You can tell it's done when the meat is firm and no longer translucent.
6. Remove the lobster from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

For a luxurious touch, you can stuff the lobster before baking. Mix some softened butter with herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme, and a pinch of garlic powder. Stuff the mixture under the lobster's shell and bake as instructed.

(Part 4) Top Tips for Cooking Lobster

Okay, so now you've got the basics. Let me share a few little tips and tricks that I’ve learned over the years to make your lobster extra special.

1. Don't Overcook Lobster

Overcooked lobster can be tough and chewy. So, make sure you cook it for the correct amount of time. It’s best to err on the side of undercooked. Don't worry, it'll finish cooking when you’re serving it.

2. Use a Meat Thermometer

The best way to ensure your lobster is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be at least 140°F (60°C). This will ensure the meat is safe to eat and tender.

3. Season Well

Lobster is a fairly bland shellfish, so make sure you season it well. Salt and pepper are the basics, but you can also add herbs like parsley, dill, and thyme. I love to add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of brightness.

4. Don’t Forget the Butter

What’s lobster without a little butter? Melted butter is a classic accompaniment, and it helps to keep the meat moist and flavourful. You can also add garlic, herbs, or lemon to the butter for extra flavour. For a real treat, make a compound butter by mixing softened butter with finely chopped herbs, lemon zest, and a pinch of garlic. Serve it on the side for dipping.

(Part 5) Serving Lobster: A Feast for the Senses

Right, so your lobster is cooked to perfection. Now, it’s time to make it look as good as it tastes. Here are a few ideas for serving up your lobster with style.

1. Lobster Crackers and Serving Utensils

Make sure you've got the right tools for the job! You'll need some lobster crackers to crack open the shell and a lobster pick to pull out the meat. You can usually find these at a good kitchen store or online.

2. Serve with Sides

Lobster is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a few sides. My favourites include:

1. roasted asparagus with lemon
2. Creamy corn on the cob
3. potato salad
4. A simple green salad

I like to keep the sides simple so they don't overpower the delicate flavour of the lobster. If you want to go a bit more adventurous, try serving it with a side of risotto, a pasta salad, or even a bowl of quinoa.

3. Presentation is Key

Present your lobster beautifully! I love to serve it on a bed of ice. It looks impressive and keeps the lobster cold. You can also add a sprig of parsley or a slice of lemon for a touch of colour. For a more rustic presentation, serve the lobster on a platter with a side of melted butter for dipping, and some crusty bread for soaking up all the delicious juices.

(Part 6) Storing Leftover Lobster

Leftover lobster is a real treat! It can be used in salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. But you need to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh.

Storing Cooked Lobster

The best way to store cooked lobster is in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked lobster for up to 3 months. To freeze lobster, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.

(Part 7) Variations and Ideas

Okay, so now you’ve got the basics, let’s get a bit more adventurous. Here are a few variations on the classic lobster dish.

1. lobster bisque

This is a classic creamy soup made with lobster stock, cream, and lobster meat. It’s rich, decadent, and perfect for a cold winter’s day. To make lobster bisque, start by making a lobster stock using the lobster head and shells. Then, simmer the stock with diced lobster meat, cream, and a touch of brandy for a luxurious taste.

2. lobster mac and cheese

Who doesn't love a good mac and cheese? Well, add some chunks of lobster to it and you've got yourself a meal! I love to sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake it in the oven until it’s golden brown. To make lobster mac and cheese, simply add cooked lobster meat to your favourite mac and cheese recipe. For a richer flavor, try using a cheese sauce made with Gruyere, cheddar, and a touch of cream.

3. lobster roll

A New England classic! This is a sandwich made with lobster meat, butter, and seasonings, served on a toasted bun. It’s simple but delicious! To make a lobster roll, mix cooked lobster meat with melted butter, mayonnaise, and a pinch of celery salt. Serve the mixture on a toasted hot dog bun, and enjoy!

4. Lobster Salad

A light and refreshing option, lobster salad is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. Combine cooked lobster meat with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and a touch of lemon juice. Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

(Part 8) FAQs

I’ve been there. So many questions about lobster! I've compiled some common questions and answers to help you on your lobster-cooking journey.

1. How do I know if my lobster is cooked properly?

You can tell if your lobster is cooked properly by the colour of the shell. It should be bright red. Also, the meat should be opaque and firm. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be at least 140°F (60°C).

2. How long should I cook lobster for?

The cooking time for lobster will depend on its size. Generally, it will take about 12-15 minutes to cook a 1-1.5lb lobster. If you’re cooking a larger lobster, you’ll need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time. Always check the meat thermometer to make sure it's cooked through.

3. What is the best way to crack a lobster shell?

You'll need lobster crackers to crack open the shell. Use the crackers to crack the shell along the sides and back of the lobster. Once you've cracked the shell, you can use a lobster pick to pull out the meat.

4. What can I do with leftover lobster meat?

Leftover lobster meat is fantastic in salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. You can also add it to soups and stews. Just make sure you store it properly in the fridge or freezer.

5. Can I cook lobster in a microwave?

I don’t recommend cooking lobster in a microwave. It doesn't cook evenly, and the meat can become tough and rubbery.

(Part 9) Final Thoughts

And there you have it! A comprehensive guide to cooking frozen lobster. It might seem a bit daunting at first, but I promise you, it's really not that difficult. So next time you're looking for a special meal, give frozen lobster a try. It's a delicious, versatile ingredient that's sure to impress your guests. And don't be afraid to experiment with different recipes and serving methods to find your own favourites. Happy cooking!