Butter Poached Lobster Tails

Delicately sweet, tender, and rich—these Butter Poached Lobster Tails are the epitome of elegance and simplicity. Slowly cooked in a warm bath of garlic-infused butter, the lobster meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a celebratory meal, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Elegant Yet Easy – No complicated techniques, just gentle poaching in butter.
Flavorful & Tender – The lobster becomes juicy and soft without being rubbery.
Naturally Luxurious – Simple ingredients create a gourmet dish.
Perfect for Special Occasions – Ideal for holidays, anniversaries, or birthdays.
Customizable – Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables to suit your preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Butter Poached Lobster Tails:

• 4 lobster tails (about 5–6 oz each), shells removed
• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 small shallot, finely minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp white pepper (or black pepper if preferred)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving (optional):

• Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
• Sautéed spinach or asparagus
• Extra lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp kitchen scissors or shears
• Small saucepan
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Meat thermometer (optional)
• Fine mesh strainer (optional for clear butter)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of the lobster shell lengthwise.
2. Gently pull the shell apart and lift the meat out, keeping it attached at the base.
3. Remove the digestive tract (black vein) if visible. Rinse lightly and pat dry.
4. Set the lobster tails aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Make the Poaching Butter

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter gently.
2. Add garlic, shallots, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
3. Keep the heat on the lowest setting—you want the butter warm, not sizzling (around 160–180°F).
4. Let the aromatics infuse the butter for 5–7 minutes.
5. (Optional) Strain out the solids if you prefer a smooth poaching butter.

Step 3: Poach the Lobster Tails

1. Add the lobster tails to the butter, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
2. Cook gently for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs.
3. The lobster is done when opaque and firm to the touch. A thermometer should read 135–140°F internally.
4. Remove lobster tails with a slotted spoon and let rest for 1 minute.

Step 4: Serve & Garnish

1. Place the poached lobster tails over your choice of rice, mashed potatoes, or sautéed greens.
2. Drizzle with some of the infused butter from the pan.
3. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Perfect Butter Poached Lobster
Low & Slow – Never let the butter boil; gentle heat keeps the lobster tender.
Shell First – Removing the shell before cooking ensures even poaching.
Use a Thermometer – Helps avoid overcooking and guarantees juicy meat.
Clarify If Desired – Skim or strain milk solids for a clear poaching butter.
Don’t Rush – Let the flavors infuse into the butter for better taste.

Serving Suggestions
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting, perfect for soaking up butter.
Lemon Herb Rice – Light and fresh to balance the richness.
Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts pair beautifully.
Crusty Bread – Ideal for dipping into that luscious butter.
Side Salad – A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Store poaching butter separately for reuse.

Freezing:

• Not recommended for fully cooked lobster, but raw tails can be frozen.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Warm the butter and gently reheat lobster over very low heat for 3–4 minutes.
• Microwave: Use low power in 20-second intervals, covered with a damp paper towel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen lobster tails?
   Yes, thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before using.
2. What kind of butter is best?
   Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and control over saltiness.
3. How do I keep the butter from burning?
   Keep the heat low and watch carefully. You can also use a double boiler method for better control.
4. Can I add herbs to the poaching butter?
   Absolutely! Try thyme, tarragon, or bay leaves for extra depth.
5. What’s a good non-seafood substitute for lobster in this recipe?
   Large chunks of white fish or even chicken breast medallions can work well with this poaching method.

Final Thoughts
Butter Poached Lobster Tails are the perfect dish when you want something decadent yet simple. The delicate, sweet lobster meat soaked in garlic-lemon butter is pure indulgence. Whether you’re impressing dinner guests or enjoying a quiet meal, this recipe brings elegance to your table without the fuss.

Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to lobster preparation. Be sure to leave a comment and share your plate—I’d love to see how yours turns out!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 370mg

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