Chef's Tip
When clarifying butter, skim off the white foam that rises to the top, then carefully pour the clear middle layer into a serving dish, leaving the milk solids at the bottom of the pan. This produces clearer drawn butter that won't solidify as quickly.
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water. Add salt and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- While water is heating, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl or clean sink.
- Rinse lobsters under cold water. Optional: Place lobsters in freezer for 15 minutes before cooking to numb them.
- Carefully place lobsters head-first into the boiling water. Cover pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Steam lobsters for 12-14 minutes for 1 1/2 pound lobsters, or 14-16 minutes for 2 pound lobsters, until shells are bright red and antenna pull off easily.
- While lobsters cook, prepare drawn butter: Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat without stirring.
- When butter is fully melted, use a spoon to skim off the white foam from the top.
- Carefully pour the clear middle layer (clarified butter) into a small serving bowl, leaving the milk solids behind in the pan.
- When lobsters are done, use tongs to remove them from pot and place briefly in ice bath to stop cooking (about 1 minute).
- Transfer lobsters to a large platter for serving.
Plating
Place the steamed lobster on a large plate with a small bowl of clarified butter alongside. Garnish with lemon wedges and provide seafood crackers, picks, and a small fork for extracting the meat. Include a bowl for shells and a finger bowl with warm water and lemon for cleaning hands.
Storage & Reheating
Lobster is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. If you have leftover cooked lobster meat, remove it from the shell and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Use cold in lobster rolls or salads rather than reheating, which can toughen the meat.
About This Recipe
This preparation captures the essence of lobster as served in Boston's waterfront establishments. While restaurants might serve lobster with various sides, the steaming technique used here preserves the natural sweetness and texture that makes Maine lobster famous. The simple drawn butter accompaniment enhances without masking the lobster's delicate flavor.