Lobster Stew

Posted in Recipe Collections / Mom’s Recipes: From the Kitchen of Linda Travers
Lobster Stew
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Lobster Stew, a luxurious dish that brings the essence of the ocean straight to your table. This recipe combines succulent lobster meat with the velvety smoothness of milk and heavy cream, seasoned to perfection and gently simmered to create a stew that's both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, this lobster stew is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and elegant presentation.

Ingredients

  • 2-3 large lobsters (about 4 lbs total), cooked; or 4 cups of lobster meat
  • 4 to 6 tbsp butter
  • 6 cups milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste
  • Dry sherry, as desired, optional
  • Freshly parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lobster: Remove meat from steamed lobsters and cut into cubes, or cube the pre-cooked lobster meat.

  2. Cook in Butter: Pan-fry the lobster meat in butter until lightly browned, being careful not to burn the butter.

  3. Heat the Milk: In a separate pan, gently heat the milk without bringing it to a boil.

  4. Combine and Simmer: Add the lobster meat to the hot milk and cook slowly for 5 to 10 minutes.

  5. Add Cream and Season: Stir in heavy cream, bringing it nearly to a boil, then lower the heat. Season with salt, pepper, and a little paprika for color. Optionally, stir in a dash of sherry for added flavor.

  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley. Serve with a green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Crafting the Perfect Lobster Stew: Tips and Tricks

Lobster Stew is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings together the rich flavors of the sea with the comforting warmth of a creamy stew. To ensure every spoonful is as decadent as it is delicious, consider these culinary tips:

  • Selecting Your Lobster: Freshness is key. If possible, choose live lobsters for cooking and preparing the stew. The freshness of the lobster meat significantly impacts the flavor of the stew.
  • Cooking Lobster: Be careful not to overcook the lobster when initially boiling it. Overcooked lobster becomes tough and chewy, detracting from the stew’s luxurious texture.
  • Butter Is Better: Using quality butter not only for frying the lobster but also as a finishing touch can add a depth of flavor. Consider using cultured or sea-salted butter for an extra flavor profile.
  • Slow and Steady: When combining the milk, cream, and lobster, a gentle and slow simmer is crucial to prevent curdling and to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish from great to extraordinary. Fresh parsley offers a bright contrast, while green onions add a subtle sharpness that complements the lobster’s sweetness.

Pairing Your Lobster Stew

Lobster Stew’s rich and creamy profile pairs beautifully with a variety of wines and sides. A crisp, oaked Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir can balance the stew’s creaminess with acidity and fruitiness. For sides, consider serving with a simple green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette or crusty sourdough bread for dipping.

A Dish to Remember

Lobster Stew stands as a testament to the luxury and simplicity of seafood cooking. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weekend meal, this stew promises warmth, comfort, and a taste of the sea’s bounty. With each bite, diners are transported to the rugged coasts of New England, where the tradition of seafood stew has been cherished for generations.

Nutrition Facts

  • Servings Per Recipe: 6
  • Calories: 525

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 43.6g (56% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 27g (135% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 269mg (90% DV)
  • Sodium: 13485mg (586% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8.5g (3% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.4g (1% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 21.2g
  • Vitamin D: 50mcg (250% DV)
  • Calcium: 274mg (21% DV)
  • iron: 1mg (6% DV)
  • Potassium: 361mg (8% DV)

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Recipe analyzed by verywell.