Lobster Direct From Maine Recipes

MAINE-STYLE LOBSTER ROLL

Steps:

• Cut and tear the lobster meat into large chunks, closely checking for bits of shell. Keep the claws as intact as possible for the best presentation.
• In a large bowl, use a spatula to mix the lobster meat with the mayonnaise, coating evenly. The more chilled the mayonnaise, the better it will coat.
• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Using a pastry brush, liberally brush the melted butter on both sides of the hot dog rolls and place in the skillet. Toast each side to a golden brown color, using more butter as needed.
• Fill each roll with about 4 ounces of the lobster mixture. Sprinkle the tops with chives. Serve with a lemon wedge, which can also be squeezed on top.
• Serve immediately--the goal is to serve when you still have a warm, buttery roll with the cool creamy lobster meat. Enjoyed best with a view of the ocean.

BOILED MAINE LOBSTER

Steps:

• Boil the water in a large pot with a lid and add salt, parsley, bay leaves and peppercorns. Place the lobsters into the boiling water, making sure you leave the rubber bands on the claws (to avoid being pinched). Boil covered for about 15 minutes, then remove to a tray. (If using lobster tails only, the cooking time will be less. Boil until the meat is no longer translucent.)
• To shell the lobster, separate the tail from the body by lightly twisting. Remove the claws, and using a lobster cracker or nut cracker, extract the lobster meat and place on a serving platter.
• Put the melted butter in appropriately sized bowls for dipping the lobster pieces and enjoy!
• Note: You can keep the stock from the pot for when you need stock (for soups or other recipes) in the future. Strain, allow to cool, and freeze in labeled containers or plastic bags in 1/2 or 1 cup increments. I actually like to freeze them in ice cubes containers (each cube is about 1/8 of a cup) and then toss them into a labeled plastic bag. (Waste not, want not!)

MAINE COAST LOBSTER ROLLS

Steps:

• Cut the lobster into 1/2-inch pieces and place in a bowl. Chop the celery into medium-fine pieces and stir into lobster. Stir in just enough mayonnaise to coat the lobster mixture.
• As is traditional in Maine lobster shacks, fry the rolls in a skillet or on a griddle in butter. Otherwise, toast them on both sides under a broiler. Add the lobster salad and sprinkle with paprika and a few capers.