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Butter Poached Lobster Tails


  • Author: Luna
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 2–4 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For Butter Poached Lobster Tails:

  • 4 lobster tails (56 oz each), shells removed
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Flavor Additions:

  • 1 sprig fresh thyme or rosemary
  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange
  • Pinch of paprika or cayenne for gentle heat
  • 1 tablespoon white wine or fish stock for added depth

Instructions

1. Prepare the lobster tails

  • Use kitchen shears to cut down the center of the shell (if still in shell) and gently remove the meat
  • Rinse lobster tails and pat dry with paper towels
  • Set aside while you prepare the butter poaching base

2. Start the butter poaching base

  • In a medium saucepan or deep skillet, add 2 tablespoons water and bring to a gentle simmer over low heat
  • Begin whisking in chunks of butter, a few pieces at a time, until fully melted and emulsified
  • Keep the heat low to prevent the butter from browning—this is key for smooth poaching

3. Add aromatics

  • Stir in garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or flavor additions
  • Let simmer for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the butter

4. Poach the lobster

  • Carefully place lobster tails into the warm butter bath
  • Poach gently over low heat for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally
  • Lobster is done when it turns opaque, curls slightly, and reaches an internal temperature of 140–145°F (60–63°C)

5. Serve and garnish

  • Remove lobster tails from the butter with tongs or a slotted spoon
  • Spoon additional butter sauce over the top
  • Garnish with parsley or chives and serve with lemon wedges on the side
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 lobster tail with butter sauce
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 26g