A Complete Guide for Essential Tools to Cook & Eat Lobster
Cooking and enjoying lobster can feel like a decadent adventure. From the moment you bring that fresh, meaty shellfish into your kitchen to the final buttery bite, every step of the process requires the right tools.
Without them, lobster can feel like a challenge instead of the culinary delight it should be. Here’s a look at the essential tools you’ll need, whether you’re a seasoned lobster lover or trying your hand at preparing it for the first time.
1. A Large Pot for Boiling or Steaming
Lobster is often boiled or steamed, so a large pot is a must. Choose one with a sturdy base to ensure even heating. (A tall pot with a steaming rack is also ideal for steaming, allowing the lobsters to sit above the water and steam to perfection.)
The pot should be big enough to accommodate the size of the lobster and allow plenty of water for boiling or space for steam to circulate. To boil, you’ll need about 3 quarts of water per lobster.
2. A Steamer Basket (for Steaming)
You’ll need a steamer basket if you prefer steaming lobster, which tends to retain more of the shellfish’s natural sweetness. This sits in your pot and holds the lobster above the water as it cooks in the steam. It’s a simple tool, but crucial for even cooking and keeping the lobster’s flavor intact.
3. Tongs
Lobsters can be heavy, especially when they’re fully cooked and hot. A good pair of long-handled tongs will help you safely transfer them from the pot to your plate without risking a burn. Make sure your tongs are sturdy and can handle the weight, and opt for tongs with a firm grip to avoid dropping your precious seafood.
4. Lobster Crackers (or Nutcrackers)
The real work begins once you’ve cooked your lobster: cracking it open. Lobster crackers (also known as nut or crab crackers) are designed to help you break through the tough shell of the claws and other hard parts of the lobster. While a regular nutcracker can do the job, lobster crackers are specifically made to handle the larger, harder shells.
5. Seafood Forks (or Picks)
After cracking the shell, you’ll need to dig out the tender meat inside, particularly from the legs and claws. Seafood forks or picks are long, narrow tools designed to reach into those tight spaces. They make it easier to extract every last bit of meat, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
6. Kitchen Shears
Kitchen shears are invaluable when it comes to cutting through the softer parts of the lobster shell, particularly the tail. They offer more precision than a knife and can help you neatly cut the shell without damaging the delicate meat inside. Look for heavy-duty, sharp shears that can handle the lobster’s tough exterior.
Lobster is a special treat, but with the right tools, it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare and enjoy. From the pot you cook it into the seafood picks that help you savor every last morsel, having these essentials on hand ensures a smooth and satisfying lobster experience. Whether steaming, boiling, cracking, or dipping, the right equipment makes all the difference. So, gather your tools and get ready for an unforgettable seafood feast!
Ready to handle a Maine lobster for yourself? Order today or come into our Scarborough, Maine location to purchase fresh caught Maine lobster.