Steamed Lobster with Drawn Butter and Lemon is a timeless dish that embodies coastal luxury and simplicity. Fresh whole lobsters are gently steamed to preserve their natural sweetness, then served with golden melted butter and bright lemon wedges for a classic seafood experience that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish offers a restaurant-quality experience at home with minimal ingredients and effort. The natural flavor of the lobster is enhanced by the richness of drawn butter and the acidity of lemon, making it a refined yet straightforward meal. It’s perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or elegant entertaining.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 whole live lobsters (1.25–1.5 lbs each)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt (for boiling water)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for dipping)
- 1 lemon, quartered
directions
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add the sea salt.
- Carefully place the live lobsters headfirst into the boiling water. Cover the pot.
- Steam the lobsters for 8–10 minutes, or until their shells turn bright red and the meat is firm and opaque (add 2 minutes for every extra 1/4 lb of lobster weight).
- Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. If desired, skim off the foam to create clarified butter.
- Remove the lobsters from the pot and allow them to cool slightly for safe handling.
- Serve whole lobsters with drawn butter and lemon wedges on the side. Provide lobster crackers and seafood picks for easier eating.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Herbed Butter: Infuse the drawn butter with garlic, thyme, or parsley for added flavor.
- Grilled Finish: After steaming, split the lobsters and lightly grill for a smoky touch.
- Spicy Butter: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the butter.
- Lobster Tails Only: Use lobster tails if whole lobsters are not available.
- Wine-Poached Lobster: Steam with white wine and aromatics for a more complex broth flavor.
storage/reheating
Refrigerate leftover lobster meat in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
To reheat, gently steam or warm the lobster meat in a covered pan with a splash of water or butter over low heat.
Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook and toughen the delicate meat.
Drawn butter can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated before serving.
FAQs
How do I know the lobster is cooked properly?
The shell turns bright red and the meat becomes firm and opaque. Overcooking can make it rubbery.
Can I use frozen lobster?
Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for best results.
What is drawn butter?
Drawn butter is melted butter often clarified by removing the milk solids and water, resulting in a purer butterfat.
How long does it take to steam larger lobsters?
Add about 2 minutes of cooking time for every additional 1/4 pound above 1.5 lbs.
What equipment do I need to eat lobster?
Lobster crackers and seafood picks are helpful, along with a bowl for shells and plenty of napkins.
Can I flavor the steaming water?
Yes, you can add bay leaves, garlic, or wine to the water for subtle added flavor.
What sides go well with steamed lobster?
Corn on the cob, boiled potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad are classic pairings.
Is lobster healthy?
Lobster is a good source of protein and low in fat, though dipping it in butter adds richness and calories.
How should I handle live lobsters?
Handle them carefully by the body, not the claws, and cook them as soon as possible for freshness.
Can I prepare the butter in advance?
Yes, clarified butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
Steamed Lobster with Drawn Butter and Lemon is a luxurious dish that’s easier to prepare than it seems. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can enjoy a seafood classic that delivers elegance, flavor, and a true taste of the ocean at home.
Print
Steamed Lobster with Drawn Butter and Lemon
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Steamed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Whole lobster, perfectly steamed until tender and juicy, served with rich drawn butter and a wedge of lemon — a luxurious seafood classic that speaks pure coastal elegance.
Ingredients
- 2 whole live lobsters (1.25–1.5 lbs each)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt (for boiling water)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for dipping)
- 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Carefully add lobsters headfirst into the water. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes or until shells are bright red and meat is firm (add 2 minutes for every extra 1/4 lb).
- While lobsters cook, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Skim off the foam to clarify if desired.
- Remove lobsters from pot and let cool slightly.
- Serve whole with drawn butter and lemon wedges on the side. Provide lobster crackers and picks for easy eating.
Notes
- Use fresh, live lobsters for best texture and flavor.
- Clarified butter adds a richer flavor and smoother texture.
- Don’t overcook the lobsters to maintain tender meat.
- Serve with corn on the cob or boiled potatoes for a full meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whole lobster with butter
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
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