is spiny lobster better than maine lobster

Is Spiny Lobster Better Than Maine Lobster? A Taste Test Comparison

Lobster is considered one of the most decadent and delicious seafood treats out there. However not all lobsters are created equal. The two most popular varieties are Maine lobster and spiny lobster. But when it comes to flavor and texture which one reigns supreme?

As a seafood enthusiast and home cook, I decided to conduct a taste test to determine once and for all whether spiny lobster is better than Maine lobster. Here is what I discovered in my quest to find the tastiest lobster variety.

An Introduction to Spiny and Maine Lobsters

Let’s start with a quick overview of the key differences between spiny lobster and Maine lobster:

• Spiny lobster is found off the coasts of Florida, Southern California, the Caribbean and parts of Asia. Maine lobster is found off the northeast coast of the U.S. and Canada.

• Spiny lobster lacks the large front claws that Maine lobster is known for. The edible meat is mostly in the tails.

• Spiny lobster is also called rock lobster. Maine lobster is sometimes called American lobster or northern lobster.

• Spiny lobster shells tend to be harder. The tail meat is said to be slightly firmer than Maine lobster.

• Maine lobster has a sweeter, more tender taste and texture due to the colder northern waters it inhabits.

• Spiny lobster is more affordable and abundant, while Maine lobster commands a higher price.

With the basics covered, it was time to move on to a side-by-side taste test.

The Great Lobster Taste Test Challenge

For my taste test challenge, I purchased live spiny lobster and Maine lobster from my local specialty seafood market. I had the fishmonger steam both lobsters for me, to control for cooking variances.

Once I brought my lobsters home, I sat down with a bowl of melted butter, lemon wedges and some crusty bread. It was time to dig in!

First, I cracked open the spiny lobster tail and claws. The shell was definitely harder to crack than the Maine lobster. The meat had a pleasant aroma and firm, dense texture. The first bite delivered a subtle sweetness and savory ocean flavor. The texture was pleasantly chewy without being tough.

Next, I moved on to the Maine lobster tail and claws. The shell cracked open much easier. The tail meat was delicate and slightly translucent. It had a softer, more velvety texture in the mouth. The distinctive sweet taste was more pronounced, with buttery notes rounded out by subtle brininess.

While chewing each bite, I paid close attention to the flavor nuances and mouthfeel. Here are some key observations:

• The spiny lobster had a pleasant, mild taste. But the Maine lobster delivered bolder, more complex sweet flavors.

• The Maine lobster meat was incredibly tender and felt like it melted in my mouth. The spiny lobster had a pleasantly firm chew.

• The briny essence of the ocean came through more strongly with the Maine lobster.

• The buttery richness shone through best with the delicate Maine lobster.

• The spiny lobster picked up more smoky notes from the shell during steaming.

After thoroughly sampling both lobsters, I had my answer. While spiny lobster is tasty, sweet, and affordable, the Maine lobster won this taste test challenge hands down! The delicate texture and complex sweet flavor simply can’t be beat.

Spiny vs. Maine Lobster: Flavor and Texture Comparison

Here is a quick flavor and texture comparison of spiny lobster vs. Maine lobster based on my taste test:

Spiny Lobster:

• Flavor: Mild, subtly sweet taste with briny ocean essence. A bit more smoky.

• Texture: Firm, dense meat with a pleasant chew.

Maine Lobster:

• Flavor: Noticeably sweeter, more complex flavor. Buttery, ocean brininess comes through.

• Texture: Extremely tender meat that melts in the mouth. Soft, velvety feel.

And the winner is…Maine lobster takes the gold when it comes to rich flavor and delicate texture!

Why Does Maine Lobster Taste Better?

So why does Maine lobster generally get rated as superior in flavor and texture compared to spiny lobster? Here are some of the reasons:

• The cold waters of the northeast force the Maine lobsters to grow slower. This results in a higher fat content and tender texture.

• Spiny lobster shells are harder, which can impact the texture and absorb more smoke flavoring during cooking.

• Maine lobster contains liver and tomalley (green gland), which some say add a seafood essence and enhance the flavor.

• The northern latitude Maine lobsters inhabit make their meat sweeter. Warm waters dilute the taste of spiny lobster.

So while spiny lobster is delicious in its own right, the cold water and slower growth combine to give Maine lobster the textural and flavor advantage.

How I Like to Prepare and Serve Lobster

While simply steaming or boiling allows you to enjoy the natural flavor of lobster, there are so many delicious ways to prepare this indulgent ingredient:

• Lobster rolls – Chunks of lobster meat lightly dressed and served on a toasted, buttered hot dog bun.

• Lobster mac and cheese – Tender lobster pieces baked with cheesy macaroni. Kick it up with bacon crumbles on top.

• Lobster ravioli – Envelop chunks of lobster in delicate pasta for an elegant dish.

• Lobster risotto – Creamy, rich rice dish dotted with lobster morsels.

• Surf and turf – Pair lobster tails with a nice beef tenderloin or filet mignon.

• Lobster pasta – Toss chunks of lobster into any pasta shape along with garlic, parsley, tomatoes, and olive oil.

However you enjoy lobster, opting for Maine lobster will deliver the most tender, sweet and complex seafood experience. While pricier than spiny lobster, a special occasion Maine lobster feast is worth the splurge!