Maine lobster is like the Michelin star of seafood, and it’s not just for the coast anymore, it’s going global and showing up on dinner plates far and wide! And guess what? You don’t even have to set sail. With delivery right to your door, you can bring that five-star feast home. New to the game or lobster enthusiast, there’s a perfect catch waiting to elevate your dinner.
When Is Lobster Season in Maine?
Thinking of going on a vacation to Maine for all that seafood? Though the area is known for producing the most awesome-tasting delicacies, lobsters have their red carpet moment throughout June to December. This is when they’re truly at their peak the chilly waters give them an extra “oomph” of flavor!
It’s like the lobster version of festival season, where everyone’s out and ready for their big debut! If you want the freshest, juiciest lobsters, this is the time to get crackin’ (literally). Plus, with so many lobsters hitting the market, it's the perfect excuse to stock up and throw a lobster feast that’ll have your neighbors inviting themselves over!
How Big Do Lobsters Get?
Let’s just say, some of these guys could give your pet dog a run for its money in size! While most Maine lobsters you’ll find on your plate are in the 1-2 pound range, they can grow to be absolute monsters if given the time. The largest one ever caught tipped the scales at a whopping 44 pounds.
Imagine trying to fit that on your dinner plate! Lobsters don’t stop growing, they just keep molting, shedding their old shell for a bigger one like they’re upgrading their wardrobe. So technically, a lobster could live to be a real sea giant if it avoids becoming someone’s dinner for long enough!
How to Cook Frozen Lobster Tails
Got frozen lobster tails and not sure how to cook them without turning them into rubbery sadness? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. Here are the top ways to cook them like a pro:
Boiling Bliss
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, drop in the tails, and cook for 8-12 minutes until they turn bright red. Just be sure not to overcook—no one likes tough lobster!
Grill to Thrill
Split the tails lengthwise, brush with butter, and grill for 4-5 minutes per side. The smoky, buttery flavor? Total win.
Baking Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F, brush the tails with butter, and bake for 12-15 minutes until the meat is white and juicy. Don’t forget the extra melted butter for dipping!
How to Defrost Lobster Tails
Before cooking, you’ve got to know how to defrost lobster tails properly to keep them juicy and tender. Follow these tips, and your lobster tails will be defrosted perfectly, ready for their moment of glory! Here are the best methods:
The Overnight Fridge Spa
Place frozen tails in a bowl and let them thaw in the fridge for 24 hours. It’s the most reliable way to keep that perfect texture.
Quick-Thaw Trick
For faster defrosting, seal the tails in a plastic bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Ready in about an hour!
Microwave? Just Don’t
Seriously, avoid the microwave. It’ll cook the lobster unevenly and turn it rubbery and no one wants that.
How to Butterfly a Lobster Tail
Want your lobster to cook evenly and look fancy? Whether you're grilling or baking, this method gives you that Instagram-worthy presentation (without the culinary degree). Here’s how to do it:
Cut the Shell Using Kitchen Shears
Cut down the middle of the shell, stopping just before the tail fan. It’s like parting the lobster's hair!
Lift the Meat
Gently pull the meat out, keeping it attached at the base, lay it on top of the shell and voilà, butterfly effect!
Grill or Bake
Brush with butter or seasoning, and grill or bake until the meat is opaque (about 8-10 minutes). Butterflying helps it cook evenly and looks super impressive.
What Is a Lobster Roll?
So, what is a lobster roll? Picture some sweet, tender lobster meat piled high on a soft, buttery, split-top roll. Basically the sandwich of dreams! Typically served with a light touch of mayo or warm, melted butter (because, let’s face it, butter makes everything better), the lobster roll has become an iconic staple in Maine cuisine.
Its origins date back to the 1920s when some genius decided to throw lobster in a bun, and the world has been thankful ever since. Whether you prefer it warm or chilled, it’s the ultimate seaside comfort food that brings all the Maine vibes and no boat trip required!
How Do You Make Lobster Rolls?
So, how do you make simple lobster rolls at home that taste like they came straight from the Maine coast? Whether you’re into the classic style or want to try something new, here’s a simple recipe to get you rolling (pun absolutely intended):
Cook the Lobster Meat
Grab about a pound of cooked lobster meat, either steam fresh lobsters or use pre-cooked. Chop it into chunky, bite-sized pieces for that perfect roll filling.
Mayo or Butter
Maine lobster rolls use mayo, salt, and pepper, while Connecticut-style rolls go for warm melted butter. For an extra kick, throw in lemon juice, celery, or Old Bay seasoning.
Toast the Bun
Toast split-top rolls in butter until crispy on the edges. Trust us, the toasted bun makes all the difference!
Assemble and Enjoy
Stuff those buttery rolls with lobster and serve them up with a side of fries or chips. You’ve officially nailed the homemade lobster roll!
How Many Calories in a Lobster Roll?
The average lobster roll clocks in around 300-500 calories, depending on how generous you are with the lobster and that glorious mayo or butter. It’s not exactly diet food, but hey, who’s counting when you’re enjoying something this delicious, right?
If you're looking for a lighter version, you can swap out some of the mayo for Greek yogurt, or go easy on the butter. Though let’s be honest, a lobster roll without butter is like a beach day without sun. Just savor it and maybe take a stroll after!
Where to Buy Live Lobster Near Me?
With today’s technology, you don’t really have to live near the coast to get your hands on that juicy lobster feast. With one press of a button, you can actually get the freshest catch from the dock to your doorstep thanks to Get Maine Lobster!
Whether you love grilling those succulent tails or enjoy the challenge of a live Maine lobster, we’ve got something that truly delights the taste buds! So why not treat yourself and welcome the flavors of Maine at your dinner table?