Lobster is arguably the king of all crustaceans, especially when it comes to taste. It’s highly sought-after for its succulent and flavorful meat, so you might think that everyone’s had it at least once. But you’d be surprised to know, not everyone’s tried it!
If you’re one of those new to lobster, this article is for you. What exactly does this classy and luxurious meat taste like? Is it really as phenomenal as they say it is? Stick around to find out!
What does lobster taste like?
Surely, it’s delicious; but it’s not that easy to explain why. It has some similarities with other shellfish, but it’s also quite unique, which is why it can be more expensive than the rest.
Lobster has sweet and tender meat. It’s similar to crab, just a little sweeter, cleaner, and lighter. As for the consistency, it’s like a cross between crab and shrimp, but not as flaky and not as chewy. Rather, it has this beautiful melt-in-your-mouth consistency that makes it so much more sophisticated and delectable.
Not all lobsters taste the same, though. If you want the sweetest kind, opt for the Maine lobster. This species grows in cold, fresh, and clean water, making it extra sweet and tender.
Here’s the science behind it: The low temperature allows the lobster to grow slower, which makes its meat tender. The cold water also prevents salt from penetrating the flesh too much, making it sweeter than warm temperature lobster.
Lobster tails are a totally different story. They have a firmer and chewier consistency, much like shrimp, but sweeter and meatier. They’re also spongier, which is mainly because the tail has a lot more protein than any other part of the lobster.
How To Cook Lobster
Lobster is already so delicious, you don’t need any fancy cooking methods to make it shine. Just boil or steam them and serve with clarified butter.
Yes, butter is all you need to flavor this posh delicacy. Butter makes lobster incredibly moist, tender, and insanely delicious!
Here’s the most important tip to get the best-tasting lobster: be sure to get them fresh. You’ll know it’s good when it doesn’t smell like fish.
As you may have guessed, the freshest lobsters you can get are live ones, which means you will have to be the one to pull the plug on them. If this doesn’t seem like something you can do, just get frozen lobster tails for the next best thing.
What To Serve With Lobster
Lobster has such delectable flavors, you don’t want to serve it with a dish that will overpower it. So, when coming up with sides to go with lobster, think dishes that have basic flavors but are very filling. Here are some great options:
Baked Potato
Lobster is already on the expensive side, so some folks may want an affordable, yet filling side dish to balance things out. If this is the case for you, go for some baked potatoes. It’s simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly! Best of all, it tastes better with butter! That’s why they are the perfect combination.
Corn on the Cob
Now here’s a good flavor combination: sweet plus sweet. Round out your lobster meal with simple corn on the cob and you’ll be surprised at just how delightful it can be. You can boil, grill, or even microwave the corn and it will taste fantastic. Don’t forget that butter, though! Just like lobster, corn is best served slathered in butter.
Biscuits
Since lobster can be pricey, you can’t always serve it in large quantities. So you’ll want to serve it with a heavy side to make sure everyone is satisfied. Biscuits will certainly help with this dilemma.
Plus, they are so delicious – nice and crispy crust on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside. Additionally, you can also use them to clear out the excess butter off your plate! What a scrumptious meal, don’t you think?
French Baguettes
Here’s another great source of starch: French baguettes. These long loaves are thick and chewy, offering a wonderful contrast to the incredibly tender lobster. While you can always get them at your favorite bakery, you could also try making them from scratch!
Pasta Salad
When you’re looking for a dish that’s both filling and nutritious, you can’t go wrong with pasta salad. It’s the ideal combination of starchy noodles and healthy veggies. With this side dish, you’ve got nutrition and satisfaction guaranteed.
Steamed White Rice
Is there a simpler side than a bowl of steamed white rice? With this dish, you won’t have to worry about clashing and overpowering flavors. Rice will make sure that the star dish gets the spotlight it deserves.
Potato Salad
Lobster is sweet, so something rich and creamy will be a great combination. This is why a sinful potato salad pairs beautifully with lobster.