The North American Steamed Lobster

If you spend time on the North Atlantic coast, then don’t miss out on the local flavors of a delicious fresh lobster meal. The good news is that we are in the peak of the lobster season.

Maine lobsters are most active between June and December but the sweetest lobsters are the “new shells” which are available from mid-June to August. Maine lobsters are known to be the tastiest lobsters on earth!

The best way to cook lobsters is by steaming.

How To Steam Lobster

Use a large covered turkey roaster, and a rack or colander to fit inside. Pour in 1-1/2 inches of water and bring to a boil. Add the lobsters. Weight down the cover to keep the steam inside. As the steam starts to escape, lower the heat and set your timer.

For 1-1/4 pounds, steam for 12 minutes

For 1-1/2 pounds, steam for 15 minutes

For 2 pounds, steam for 18 minutes

For 2-1/2 pounds, steam for 20 minutes

For 3-5 pounds, steam for 21-25 minutes

Lobster Trivia

  •  Never eat the green stuff! It’s the liver and may contain toxins.
  • Only buy live lobsters.  If you need to store live lobsters, refrigerate them in a perforated brown paper bag or in a carton with fresh seaweed.
  • A 1-1/4 to a 1-1/2 pound lobster yields about 5 ounces of cooked lobster meat.
  • A 2 pound lobster yields 1-cup of cooked lobster meat.

Nutrition Facts for 1-cup of cooked lobster meat: 130 calories, 1.2 grams fat, 212 milligrams cholesterol, 705 milligrams sodium, 334 milligrams potassium, 27.6 grams protein, high in calcium, magnesium, selenium, vitamin B12 and zinc.