How to Cook 4 Oz Lobster Tails Perfectly Every Time

Lobster tails are a delicious and indulgent treat that can make any meal feel special The sweet, succulent meat pairs perfectly with drawn butter or garlic sauce. While they may seem intimidating to prepare, 4 oz lobster tails are actually quite easy to cook at home With a few simple tricks, you can have restaurant-quality lobster tails on the table in no time.

Choosing and Preparing 4 Oz Lobster Tails

When shopping for lobster tails, you’ll typically find two varieties: warm water tails or cold water tails. Cold water tails come from lobsters caught off the Atlantic coast of Canada and New England. They tend to have a sweeter flavor and firmer texture compared to warm water tails found elsewhere. If you can find cold water tails, I highly recommend using them.

Four ounce lobster tails are a nice individual-size portion. You can find them pre-packaged at the grocery store or seafood market. Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club often sell larger value packs if you’re cooking for a crowd.

When handling raw lobster, it’s important to prepare and cook it properly to avoid foodborne illness. Start with tails that are still mostly frozen or at least well chilled. Thaw in the refrigerator if frozen. Then, keep refrigerated until ready to cook.

Butterflying the Lobster Tails

The key to perfectly cooked lobster tails is properly preparing them before cooking You want to butterfly each tail by cutting through the top shell without severing the bottom Here’s how

• Using kitchen shears, cut lengthwise through the top of the shell starting at the wider end opposite the tail. Cut towards the tail end but stop before cutting through the tail.

• Next, split open the shell. Wedge your thumbs into the opening and gently pry the shell upwards, separating it from the meat beneath.

• Remove the dark intestinal vein if present.

• Gently lift the meat up and out, keeping the end attached to the tail fin.

• Place the finished butterflied tails on a baking sheet, meat side up.

This process helps the lobster cook evenly all the way through. Don’t worry if you accidentally cut into the meat a bit while butterflying.

Seasoning and Cooking Methods

Lobster tails have delicately sweet flavor on their own, but can benefit from a boost of seasonings. A compound butter with garlic, lemon, and herbs is classic. Simply melt 4-5 tbsp salted butter and mix in:

• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Pinch of cayenne (optional)

Brush the seasoned butter over both sides of each tail before cooking. This helps keep the meat extra moist and adds lots of flavor.

The easiest way to cook 4 oz tails is by broiling. Set your oven to high broil and place the tails meat-side up on a sheet pan. Broil 4-5 inches from heat for 5-7 minutes until opaque and lightly browned. Baste with a bit more butter halfway through.

Grilling and pan searing are other quick and easy cooking methods. For grilling, use a perforated grill pan and baste while cooking. To pan sear, use a hot cast iron skillet. Baste the tails with butter continuously to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Lobster tails deserve a touch of luxury! Serve with:

• Melted lemon butter for dipping
• Fresh lemon wedges
• A green vegetable like asparagus or green beans
• Buttery mashed potatoes or rice pilaf
• A fresh salad like tomato caprese

For special occasions, create an indulgent surf and turf meal by pairing with filet mignon or ribeye steak.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Cover and refrigerate cooked lobster tails for up to 2 days. Reheat gently either in the microwave or by steaming until warmed through. Add a bit of melted butter before serving.

Raw tails can be frozen for longer storage. Blanch briefly in salted boiling water first. Then cool completely submerged in an ice bath before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

With this easy method, you can prepare succulent restaurant-worthy lobster tails in your own kitchen. Impress your guests or treat yourself to these tender, sweet treasures.

Common Questions

What size lobster tails should I buy?

For a single serving, 4-6 oz tails are ideal. 8-10 oz tails will serve 2 people. Jumbo 12 oz tails can feed 3.

Can I prep raw tails in advance?

You can butterfly and season the raw tails a few hours before cooking. But don’t let them sit too long or the lemon juice could start “cooking” the meat.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen tails?

For safety, always thaw lobster in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, cook immediately.

How can I tell when they’re done?

Check for opaque, pearly white meat and look for the meat to just start flaking and separating. Use a thermometer to check 145°F.

Why did my lobster meat come out rubbery?

This happens if tails are overcooked. To avoid, watch carefully and don’t go over the recommended cooking times.

With the right techniques and seasonings, preparing succulent lobster tails at home is easy. In less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy this decadent seafood treat. Impress your dinner guests or even make lobster for yourself any night of the week.