Garlic-Infused Steamed Lobster Claws: Simple & Delicious
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat10gram
Protein28gram
Ingredients
- Lobster claws (pre-cooked or fresh)4 pieces
- Garlic cloves (fresh, peeled)4 pieces
- Water500 ml
- Butter (unsalted)50 g
- Fresh parsley (chopped)1 tbsp
- Lemon wedges (optional)4 pieces
Discover an easy, foolproof way to steam lobster claws infused with fragrant garlic. This recipe is perfect for beginners using basic kitchen tools and common ingredients. It ensures a delicious, tender lobster experience while emphasizing food safety including proper internal temperatures and hygiene. Ingredients cost approximately $25 (USD), €23 (Euro), £20 (Pound), or ₹1900 (Rupee). Total calories per serving are around 250 kcal. This dish suits a pescatarian diet, has medium complexity, and takes about 30 minutes including preparation and cooking.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the steamer and water
1Pour 500 ml of water in the bottom of a steamer pot. Add 2 peeled garlic cloves to the water to infuse flavor. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat (about 5 minutes). This creates a flavorful steam to cook your lobster claws.
Prepare the lobster claws
2If using fresh lobster claws, rinse them under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels. If pre-cooked, ensure claws are thawed completely if frozen. Minimize handling and use clean utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
Steam lobster claws
3Place the lobster claws in the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and steam for about 6-8 minutes. Steaming times may vary depending on the size of claws; larger claws take slightly longer. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 63°C (145°F) for seafood to be safe to eat. Use a food thermometer inserted into the thickest part to check.
Prepare garlic butter sauce
4While lobster claws steam, melt 50 g butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the remaining 2 minced garlic cloves and cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic as it will become bitter. Stir in chopped fresh parsley, then remove from heat.
Serve lobster with garlic butter
5Carefully remove lobster claws from steamer. Place them on a serving plate. Serve with warm garlic butter sauce and lemon wedges on the side. Garnish with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.
Cooking Tips
1Use a seafood thermometer to verify internal temperature for safety.
2Avoid cross-contamination by washing hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw lobster.
3For a variation, add a pinch of chili flakes to garlic butter for a spicy kick.
4If you don’t have a steamer, use a large pot with a metal colander or steaming rack inside.
5Fresh garlic cloves should be firm and free of blemishes for best flavor.
Equipment needed
- Steamer pot with a lid or large pot with steaming basket/rack
- Small saucepan
- Knife and cutting board
- Food thermometer (recommended for food safety)
- Tongs or seafood cracker (optional, for serving)
- Measuring spoons and cup
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Lobster claws (~4 pieces) - approx. $20. Choose fresh, live if possible, or high-quality pre-cooked frozen from the seafood counter. Avoid claws with any off-odor.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (1 bulb) - approx. $0.50. Pick firm cloves with no signs of mold or sprouting.
- [ ] Unsalted butter (50 g) - approx. $1. Choose fresh butter without additives.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (small bunch) - approx. $1. Select bright green, unblemished leaves.
- [ ] Lemons (2-3 pieces) - approx. $2. Choose firm, heavy lemons with smooth skin.
Total approx. cost: $24.50
FAQ
Can I steam frozen lobster claws directly without thawing?
It's best to thaw frozen lobster claws completely in the refrigerator before steaming to ensure even cooking and food safety.
How do I know when lobster claws are fully cooked?
Steamed lobster claws turn bright red on the outside and the meat inside becomes white and opaque. Using a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach at least 63°C (145°F).
Can I use pre-cooked lobster claws for this recipe?
Yes, you can steam pre-cooked lobster claws to warm them up with garlic steam, but do not overcook as this can make the meat tough.
What if I don't have a steamer?
Use a large pot with a metal colander or a heatproof rack inside above boiling water to steam the lobster claws.
Is it safe to eat lobster claws with shell on after steaming?
Yes, the shell protects the meat during cooking. Crack the shell open just before eating. Always follow safe food handling practices.