Question

how long to boil lobster tailshow long to boil lobster tails

Answer 1

Boiling lobster tails is a quick and easy cooking method, but the exact time depends on the size of the tails. Here's a breakdown:

Boiling Time:

• Small lobster tails (3-4 ounces): 3-5 minutes
• Medium lobster tails (5-6 ounces): 5-6 minutes
• Large lobster tails (7-8 ounces): 6-8 minutes
• Extra large lobster tails (over 8 ounces): 8-10 minutes

Factors affecting cooking time:

• Starting water temperature: Using hot water will reduce cooking time slightly compared to using cold water.
• Thawing method: Frozen lobster tails should be thawed completely before boiling. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for 30-45 minutes are common methods. Improperly thawed tails might require slightly longer cooking times.

Here's the general process for boiling lobster tails:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. You can add some salt and other seasonings like bay leaves or peppercorns to the water for additional flavoring (optional).
2. Gently place the thawed lobster tails into the boiling water.
3. Start the timer based on the size of the tails.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the lobster tails from the pot using tongs and transfer them to a plate.
5. Let the lobster tails cool slightly before serving. You can drizzle them with melted butter, lemon juice, or other desired toppings.

Additional tips:

• Don't overcook the lobster tails. Overcooked lobster becomes tough and rubbery. It's better to err on the side of undercooking and check for doneness by gently inserting a fork into the thickest part of the tail. If it flakes easily, it's cooked through.
• Consider using a steamer instead of boiling. Steaming can help preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the lobster compared to boiling.