Ingredients
Scale
For Butter Poached Lobster Tails:
- 4 lobster tails (5–6 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