How Long Should I Steam My Lobster for Perfect Results Every Time?

Lobster is a delicious crustacean that is best enjoyed when cooked properly Steaming is one of the most popular cooking methods for lobster, as it yields tender, juicy meat infused with sweet, briny flavor. But to achieve lobster perfection via steaming, it’s important to know exactly how long to steam lobsters based on their size and weight Keep reading for a complete guide to steaming times so your lobster turns out tender and succulent each time.

Lobster has become a classic summer indulgence thanks to its sweet taste and versatility. The two main options for cooking lobster are boiling and steaming. Boiling is a faster more aggressive method while steaming is gentler. For the most tender flaky texture and to preserve the delicate seafood flavor, steaming is highly recommended.

When steaming lobster, the goal is to cook the meat until just done, avoiding overcooking. Follow proper steaming times based on the lobster’s size to prevent ending up with tough, rubbery meat. The steaming duration will impact the final texture and ensure the lobster is cooked through safely.

Factors That Determine How Long to Steam Lobster

There are a few key factors that determine steaming times for lobster:

• Size of lobster – Larger lobsters will take longer to cook than smaller ones. Most recipes recommend 10-12 minutes of steaming time per pound.

• Cooking method – Steaming takes longer compared to boiling. Aim for at least 10 minutes per pound when steaming vs 8 minutes per pound for boiling.

• Split vs whole – Split lobsters will cook faster since steam and heat can penetrate inside. Leave lobsters whole if possible for even cooking.

• Frozen vs live – Frozen lobster meat will be quicker to steam than live lobsters, which need time to heat from a cold state. Add a few extra minutes for live.

• Altitude – Higher altitudes will increase cooking time. At higher elevations above 3000 feet add 5 minutes to steaming time.

Keep these key considerations in mind when determining how long your lobster needs for perfect doneness.

Recommended Steaming Times for Lobster

Follow these standard steaming guidelines based on lobster size:

• 1 pound lobster – steam for 10-12 minutes
• 1.25 pound lobster – steam for 12-15 minutes
• 1.5 pound lobster – steam for 15-18 minutes
• 1.75 pound lobster – steam for 18-21 minutes
• 2 pound lobster – steam for 20-24 minutes

For larger lobsters:

• Add 3-5 extra minutes of steaming time per additional 1/2 pound

Remember, these times are for live lobsters. Reduce times by 2-3 minutes if steaming previously frozen lobster meat.

Checking for Doneness

The best way to evaluate whether your lobster is cooked to tender perfection after steaming is to:

• Check the internal meat color – it should be opaque white when fully cooked, with no translucent sections. This is the most reliable test.
• Look for a bright red shell, though this can be misleading if shell turns red before meat is done.
• Check that meat separates easily from the shell.
• Insert a knife into the tail meat – it should slide in and out with no resistance when fully cooked.

Use a thermometer to take lobster’s internal temperature – it should reach 140°F in the thickest part of the meat when done.

Steaming Tips for Perfect Lobster

Follow these pro tips when steaming lobsters:

• Use a large pot with a tight fitting lid and steamer basket or rack to allow steam to circulate fully.
• Add enough water to fill pot 2-3 inches in the bottom. Season water with salt for extra flavor.
• Bring water to a rolling boil before adding lobsters. Steam with the lid on to trap steam.
• Add lobsters head first into the steamer basket or pot. Crowding will increase cooking time.
• Check on lobsters halfway through – turn and rearrange shells for even exposure.
• When done, plunge lobster into an ice bath to stop cooking process.

Serving Up Your Steamed Lobster

Once you’ve perfectly steamed your lobster using the ideal cooking times, it’s time to enjoy! Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, and dipping sauces like melted garlic butter. Accompaniments like corn on the cob, roasted potatoes, and coleslaw pair nicely. Don’t forget handy lobster crackers, picks, and bibs.

For easy weeknight meals, pick up raw lobster tails at the store to steam in 10-12 minutes. For special occasions, opt for a whole live lobster for impressive presentation.

You can also purchase pre-cooked frozen lobster meat to quickly steam from frozen state in just 4-6 minutes. This allows you to skip lengthy simmering times while still enjoying tender steamed lobster texture.

Steaming Lobster FAQs

How long should I steam a 2 pound lobster?
For a 2 pound live lobster, steam for 20-24 minutes total.

Can you over steam a lobster?
Yes, it’s possible to overcook lobster through overly long steaming times. This yields tough, rubbery meat. Stick to the recommend guidelines based on weight to avoid over steaming.

How long should I steam frozen lobster tails?
Frozen lobster tails take 10-12 minutes to steam from fully frozen state. Watch closely and check doneness often to prevent overcooking.

Should I steam lobster with fresh or salt water?
Either works! Fresh water will let the natural lobster flavor shine. Salt water will lightly season and enhance the briny notes.

Can I steam a lobster in the microwave?
Microwaving doesn’t effectively steam lobsters. Steamers and stovetop methods are best to ensure even cooking.

Achieving Lobster Perfection

Steaming lobster brings out its inherently sweet, tender qualities and ocean-fresh flavor. Follow these steaming time guidelines tailored to your lobster’s size and you’ll achieve tender, juicy results each time. Getting the timing right as your lobster cooks results in a delicious culinary indulgence.