Can You Microwave Lobster in the Shell? A Guide to Cooking Methods

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Is it Possible to Microwave Lobster in the Shell?

Imagine this: it’s a beautiful summer evening, and you’re hosting a dinner party at your beach house. The guests are arriving, and the excitement is palpable. On the menu tonight? Fresh lobster. The smell of the ocean and the taste of succulent lobster meat are enough to make anyone’s mouth water. But, there’s just one problem – you forgot to pre-cook the lobster! Panic sets in, and you frantically search for a solution. Can you microwave lobster in the shell? Is it even possible? Let’s find out.

The Controversy Surrounding Microwaving Lobster

The debate over whether or not you can microwave lobster in the shell has been raging for years. Some say it’s a quick and efficient cooking method that retains the lobster’s natural flavors, while others argue that microwaving can result in a rubbery and overcooked texture. With so many conflicting opinions, it’s no wonder that many home cooks are left scratching their heads.

The Science Behind Microwaving

To understand whether microwaving lobster in the shell is possible, it’s important to first understand how microwaves work. When you place food in a microwave, the electromagnetic waves penetrate the food and cause water molecules to vibrate. These vibrations generate heat, which cooks the food from the inside out. While this method is great for reheating leftovers or cooking certain types of foods, seafood, especially delicate creatures like lobster, requires careful handling.

Steps to Microwave Lobster in the Shell

If you’re feeling adventurous and decide to give microwaving lobster in the shell a try, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Choose the Right Lobster – Select a fresh lobster that is still alive. Make sure the lobster is of good quality and has no discoloration or unpleasant smell.

Step 2: Preparing the Lobster – Rinse the lobster under cold water to remove any grit or sand. Use a sharp knife to kill the lobster humanely by inserting the blade into the cross mark on the lobster’s head. This will instantly kill the lobster without causing unnecessary suffering.

Step 3: Seasoning – Sprinkle your preferred seasonings onto the lobster. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper or get creative with herbs and spices like garlic, paprika, or thyme.

Step 4: Microwaving – Place the lobster in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. Cook on high power for approximately three to four minutes per pound of lobster. Remember to rotate the dish halfway through cooking to ensure even heating.

Step 5: Checking for Doneness – Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and carefully remove the plastic wrap or lid, taking caution to avoid any steam burns. The lobster should be bright red, and the meat should be opaque and firm to the touch. If the lobster is not fully cooked, return it to the microwave for additional cooking time.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While microwaving lobster in the shell is a possibility, it may not yield the best results. If you’re looking for alternative cooking methods that will give you a more traditional and flavorful lobster experience, here are a few options to consider:

Boiling – Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Submerge the lobster in the water and cook for about eight to ten minutes per pound. Remove the lobster from the water and allow it to cool before cracking the shell and enjoying the tender meat inside.

Steaming – Fill a large pot with a few inches of water and bring it to a boil. Place the lobster in a steamer basket or on a raised rack above the boiling water. Cover the pot and steam the lobster for about eight to ten minutes per pound. Once done, remove the lobster from the pot and let it cool before serving.

Grilling – Prepare a grill for medium-high heat. Cut the lobster in half lengthwise and brush the flesh with olive oil or melted butter. Place the lobster halves flesh-side down on the grill and cook for about five to six minutes per pound. Flip the lobster and cook for an additional three to four minutes, until the flesh is opaque and cooked through.

Conclusion

So, can you microwave lobster in the shell? While it may be possible, other cooking methods such as boiling, steaming, or grilling are generally preferred for their ability to produce more tender and flavorful meat. However, if you’re in a pinch and need a quick and easy solution, microwaving lobster in the shell can be a viable option. Just remember to take extra care to ensure that the lobster is cooked through and remains juicy and delicious. Happy cooking!