People who know a lot about lobsters and love cooking often ask us, “What is a good-sized lobster to buy?” This is a question that every cook needs to know before making a special meal for one, two, or twenty people, and we have all the answers.
We will look at lobster sizes and meat density to help you choose the best size (and number) for your next lobster meal. To help you get the exact right number, we’ll discuss:
What size lobster to order will depend on your budget, the menu, the event’s size, and the reason for it. Let’s look at all of these factors together to find the best lobster size for you. Side note: LobsterAnywhere ships freshly caught Maine lobsters ranging from 1 ¼ lb. , the size you might find at a Boston seafood restaurant, all the way up to a 10–12 lb. monster lobster (for super special occasions).
Lobster is one of the most prized seafood delicacies, renowned for its sweet, succulent meat and unique flavor. From boiled lobster with drawn butter to lobster rolls overflowing with chunks of fresh meat, this crustacean is a true treat. But with so many lobster sizes to choose from, it can be tricky to know exactly how much meat you’ll get out of your catch.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at 4 lb lobsters examining how much meat they yield and how to make the most of these special shellfish. Whether you’re planning a beachside clambake or an intimate dinner for two read on for the complete guide to 4 lb lobsters.
An Overview of 4 lb Lobsters
Also known as “jumbo” lobsters, 4 lb specimens measure around 9-11 inches long. They can be an impressive sight on the plate with their massive claws and hefty tails. 4 lb lobsters are caught in offshore waters, usually by commercial fishermen, as nearshore lobstering regulations restrict maximum sizes.
These extra-large crustaceans take many years to reach such a substantial size. Their age contributes to a more developed, nuanced flavor in the meat. The texture is firm yet tender when cooked properly. 4 lb lobsters are perfect for special occasions or to share “family-style” at larger gatherings.
When buying live 4 lb lobsters, look for specimens with hard shells and lively movement. Store them on damp newspaper in the fridge and cook as soon as possible for the best flavor. 4 lb frozen or pre-cooked lobster tails are available, though the taste can’t quite match a freshly boiled four-pounder.
Estimating the Meat Yield
The amount of meat you’ll get from a 4 lb lobster depends on a couple of factors:
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Hard vs. soft shell – Hard shell lobsters have a higher meat-to-shell ratio. A soft shell yields approximately 15% meat vs. 20% for hard shells.
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Cooking method – Boiling, steaming, grilling – different techniques shrink and condense the meat to varying degrees.
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Lobster anatomy – The tail meat makes up about 15% of total yield, claws 10%, knuckles 3% legs 2%.
As a general rule, a 4 lb hard shell lobster will produce around 12-16 ounces of cooked meat. That’s about 1-15 pounds of succulent lobster to enjoy Here’s a more detailed meat yield estimate
- Tail: approx. 5-6 oz
- Claws: approx. 3-4 oz
- Knuckles: approx. 1 oz
- Legs: approx. 0.5 oz
Keep in mind that meat weights can fluctuate based on season, lobster size, and cook methods. For your feast, plan on at least 1/2 lb of meat per person. Leftovers make excellent lobster rolls!
Getting the Most Meat When Eating
Now comes the fun part – savoring all that fresh lobster meat! Here are some tips to get the most flesh out of your 4 lb crustacean:
- Crack the claws first – Use lobster crackers or a rolling pin to break open the claws. Watch for sharp points as you extract the meat!
- Unhinge the knuckles – Twist and snap off the knuckles where they attach to the body. Extract the meat with picks.
- Loosen the tail – Unhinge where the tail meets the upper body. The meat should slide right out.
- Try the legs – Don’t forget the small morsels of meat in each leg segment.
- Suck out innards – For the boldest eaters, suck the flavorful tomalley and roe from the main body cavity.
Dip the lobster meat in melted butter or lemon for added decadence. Serve with corn on the cob, potatoes, and a crisp white wine. Baked stuffed lobster is another delicious option for using every last morsel.
Cooking a 4 lb Lobster Perfectly
To get tender, juicy meat from a 4 lb lobster, careful cooking is key. Here are some tips:
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Boil or steam – Immerse live lobster in rapidly boiling water or steam for 13-15 minutes. No more than 20 minutes maximum.
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Grill – Cut lobster in half lengthwise. Grill cut-side down for 14-16 minutes, basting with butter.
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Check for doneness – Meat should be opaque and firm but still moist. Watch claws closely as they cook faster.
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Rest before eating – Let lobster sit 5 minutes after cooking so meat can relax and absorb juices.
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Reheat gently – Warm leftover meat in broth or butter to prevent toughness. Don’t overcook.
Master these techniques for tender, flavorful meat ready to enjoy! Try pairing a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Ideas for 4 lb Lobster Meals
A four-pound lobster is the star attraction of any meal. Here are some stellar recipes and serving ideas:
- Boiled whole with drawn butter
- Baked stuffed lobster with seafood Newburg
- Grilled lobster with lemon garlic butter
- Hearty lobster bisque soup
- Overstuffed lobster rolls
- Lobster mac and cheese
- Lobster avocado salad
- Shells stuffed with lobster risotto
However you choose to indulge, a 4 lb lobster is sure to satisfy. Gather family and friends for an epic surf and turf feast!
The Takeaway on 4 lb Lobsters
When you’re looking to indulge in a special seafood treat, a 4 lb lobster fits the bill. With around 1-1.5 pounds of succulent meat to enjoy, these crustaceans promise a memorable meal. Carefully sourced live or pre-cooked frozen 4 lb lobsters guarantee rich, decadent flavor.
Follow our guide for getting the maximum meat yield from your catch. Then savor the tender morsels in your favorite recipes, from classic boiled lobster to stuffed shells and bisques. However you crack into it, a 4 lb lobster is a prize catch to cherish.
How to Save Money Buying the Right Size Lobster
LobsterAnywhere sources live hard shell lobsters directly from our lobstermen partners at the docks daily. This catch is super fresh!.
We simplify picking the perfect lobster size and quantity—check out our live lobster here.
When we ship our lobsters, we make sure they are safe by putting them in cold storage boxes and sending them overnight. Our lobsters will not be the lowest price you’ll find online, but they are of the highest quality. Simply put, these are the BEST lobsters available anywhere.
Chix or Chicken Lobsters
There is a legal small lobster called a “chix” that weighs just over one pound. It is also known as a “chicken lobster.” These chicken lobsters are popular as tourist foods in New England. They are often listed on restaurant menus as a “twin lobster special,” with two of these little guys.
At LobsterAnywhere, we do not ship small lobsters under 1. 20 lbs or soft-shell lobsters, known as new shell lobsters— crustaceans that recently shed their shell. We don’t think it’s worth the trouble to shuck a chicken lobster when you can eat a bigger one with more meat.
You should start with 1 ¼ lb of lobster if you are having a big lobster bake or want to keep the price per person low. (550-650g) lobsters, also known as “quarters. ” These lobsters are a good size and are usually more plentiful than the larger lobsters. Quarters are also a good choice if you have a lot of side dishes or serve surf and turf.
How Much Meat Is in a Live Lobster? The meat from a 1.5-pound hard-shell lobster is about 1 1/3 cups when cooked.
1 ½ lb. (650-775 g) lobsters are called halves because they’re one pound plus a half. These are whole, live lobsters, not lobsters that have been cut in half. Half lobsters are big enough for a “Maine” course lobster dinner.
How Much Lobster Meat is in a One Pound Lobster? Is it Cheaper to Buy Lobster Meat or Live Lobsters?
FAQ
How much meat is in a 5 lb lobster?
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Lobster Size
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Lobster Meat (Low End)
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Lobster Meat (High End)
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1.25 lb / 20 oz
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3 ounces
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4 ounces
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1.5 lb / 24 oz
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3.6 ounces
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4.8 ounces
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2 lb / 32 oz
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4.8 ounces
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6.4 ounces
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5 lb / 80 oz
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12 ounces
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16 ounces
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How much meat is in a pound of lobster?
For example, a 1 lb. hard-shell lobster will yield 3.36 oz. of cooked meat (Based on a 21% yield). To get a pound of meat, divide 16 oz. (1 lb.) by 3.36 oz. So you will need 4.76 1 lb. lobsters for 1 pound of cooked meat. What is Considered a Serving of Lobster? Four ounces of meat is considered a typical serving size for lobster.
How much meat does a live lobster yield?
It is rare for any live lobster to yield less than 15 – 20% of its body weight. The lowest-yield but sweetest-tasting lobster is typically harvested during the summer. Most live lobster shipped to you require a hard-shell that ensures an average yield rate of 20 – 25% meat. Here is an estimated meat yield broken down by different parts of lobster.
How much meat does a lobster eat?
Most live lobster shipped to you require a hard-shell that ensures an average yield rate of 20 – 25% meat. Here is an estimated meat yield broken down by different parts of lobster. 15% Lobster Tail. 10% Claw Meat. 3% Knuckle Meat. 2% Leg Meat. How Is Lobster Graded? Grading lobsteris a way to determine its value and quality.
How many Oz is a lobster roll?
Four ounces of meat is considered a typical serving size for lobster. For example, a good Maine lobster roll will be piled high with about 4 oz. of fresh cooked lobster meat. The chart below shows the meat yield differences between a hard shell and soft shell lobster and the number of lobsters needed to yield a pound of cooked meat.