Butter Poached Lobster Tails

Butter Poached Lobster Tails are an indulgent, restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Poaching lobster in a rich butter bath keeps the meat incredibly tender, juicy, and infused with delicate flavor. Serve it with garlic butter, lemon, or a creamy side dish for an unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Tender & Juicy – Poaching prevents toughness and enhances natural sweetness.
• Rich, Buttery Flavor – A luxurious dish perfect for special occasions.
• Easy Yet Elegant – Minimal ingredients with a high-end restaurant result.
• Versatile Pairing – Goes well with steak, pasta, risotto, or vegetables.
• Quick to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lobster tails (4-6 oz each)
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Water (or seafood stock)
• Salt
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Using kitchen scissors, cut down the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping at the tail fin.
2. Gently pull the lobster meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base. Rest the meat on top of the shell for easy poaching.

2. Make the Butter Poaching Liquid

1. In a saucepan over low heat, add 2 tablespoons of water (or seafood stock) and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Slowly whisk in the butter, a few cubes at a time, until fully melted and emulsified. Keep the heat low to prevent separation.
3. Stir in garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

3. Poach the Lobster

1. Keep the butter just below a simmer (around 160-180°F). Do not boil.
2. Add the lobster tails, making sure they are submerged in the butter.
3. Poach for 5-7 minutes, gently basting with butter, until the meat is opaque and firm.

4. Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove the lobster tails and drizzle with extra poaching butter.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Garlic Herb Lobster – Add thyme or tarragon to the butter.
• Spicy Kick – Mix in a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Wine Infusion – Replace some water with white wine for extra depth.
• Lemon Butter Lobster – Increase lemon juice and add zest for a citrusy touch.
• Surf & Turf – Serve alongside a juicy filet mignon or ribeye.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as lobster can become rubbery.
• Reheating: Warm gently in melted butter over low heat to maintain tenderness.

FAQs

What’s the best lobster for poaching?

Cold-water lobster tails (Maine or Canadian) are sweeter and more tender.

How do I know when the lobster is done?

The meat should be opaque, firm, and have an internal temperature of 135-140°F.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce added salt to avoid overpowering the flavor.

What’s the difference between poaching and boiling?

Poaching uses gentle, low heat to keep lobster tender, while boiling can make it tough.

Do I need to devein the lobster?

Yes, if visible, remove the dark vein running along the back.

Can I poach whole lobsters instead of tails?

Yes, but adjust cooking time based on weight (about 12-15 minutes for a 1.5 lb lobster).

What sides go well with butter-poached lobster?

Mashed potatoes, risotto, asparagus, or garlic butter pasta make excellent pairings.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the lobster tails and butter sauce in advance.

What’s the best way to keep the butter from separating?

Use low heat and whisk continuously while adding butter slowly.

Can I poach lobster in clarified butter (beurre monté)?

Yes! This helps maintain a stable emulsion for an ultra-smooth butter sauce.

Conclusion

Butter Poached Lobster Tails are the ultimate indulgence, offering melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich, buttery flavor. Whether for a romantic dinner, holiday meal, or special celebration, this recipe guarantees a show-stopping dish with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy gourmet lobster at home!

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