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Spiny lobster tail
Butter-Poached Spiny Lobster with Lime and Chive
Shelled tail meat gently poached in an emulsified butter bath and served as a small, rich first course.
4 servings25 min hands-on30 min total
Stove and oven · Appetizer
Skill: Advanced
Untested draft
Ingredients
- 2 tailsSpiny lobster tail, meat removed from shell
- 12 tbspButter, cold, cubed
- 1Lime
- 2 tbsp water
- Chives
You'll need
Stovetop, Instant-read thermometer.
Leftovers
Serve immediately.
Method
- Bring the water to a simmer in a small saucepan. Whisk in the cold butter a few cubes at a time to make a smooth emulsion. Hold it between 160°F and 180°F; do not let it boil.
- Slide in the lobster meat and poach, turning gently, until opaque throughout, 6 to 8 minutes depending on size.
- Slice into medallions, finish with lime zest, a squeeze of juice, chives and a spoon of the butter.
Cook to OpaquePoach until the meat is opaque throughout. A gentle bath protects texture; it does not replace cooking through.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Food safety sources
- Selecting and Serving Fresh and Frozen Seafood SafelyU.S. Food and Drug Administration
