Introduction to Cooking Maine Lobster

Cooking live Maine lobster at home might seem daunting, but the process is surprisingly straightforward if you follow the right techniques. With a few basic tools and some simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious meal that rivals any restaurant's lobster dish. Here, we'll guide you through the process, including how to prepare and cook the lobster for the best results.

Essential Tools and Preparation

The right tools make the job easier. A lobster pot is ideal, resembling a large steamer pot with a perforated bottom that allows steam to circulate while preventing the lobster from coming into direct contact with boiling water. However, if you don't have one, any large pot that can accommodate the lobster and has a tight-fitting lid will suffice.

Begin by ensuring your pot is filled with enough water to maintain a good boil. This should last for about 20-30 minutes, which is long enough to cook the lobster to perfection. A lobster pot comes in handy here because it helps distribute heat evenly and creates a barrier between the lobster and the intense heat, ensuring a more gentle cooking process.

Cooking the Lobster

Once the water is boiling, carefully place the lobster in the pot (ensure it’s not in direct contact with the boiling water). Put the lid on and let the lobster cook for about 20 minutes. The timing can vary slightly based on the size and weight of the lobster, but this should provide a good range. When done, the lobster will be bright red in color and easy to handle.

Removing the Rubber Bands and Humane Considerations

Live lobsters often arrive with large rubber bands around their claws. This is to prevent the lobsters from injuring each other during transportation. Disabling these bands is as simple as snipping them off with a pair of scissors. I prefer to do this just before placing the lobster in the pot, as the rubber bands often catch on the claws and can cause some discoloration if removed post-cleanup. However, it's important to note that this is optional, and if you find the process unsettling, you can wait until right before cooking to remove them.

For those concerned about humane practices, killing the lobster just before cooking is suggested. The correct method involves inserting the tip of a large knife, such as a chef’s knife, into the head section where the furrow or crease is located between the eyes. This is where the lobster's nervous system is most concentrated, and a swift, clean strike should result in a humane end. However, it's worth noting that lobsters are very simple creatures with a minimal brain function, and the idea of them experiencing significant pain is controversial.

Conclusion

Cooking live Maine lobster at home can be a rewarding and satisfying experience. With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can achieve impressive results. Whether you choose to remove the rubber bands before cooking or handle the killing process just before, the key is to ensure the cooking environment is gentle and the lobster is cooked to perfection. Enjoy your lobsters!