How to Cook Vietnamese Lobster Dishes

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and lobster is one of the most luxurious seafood options that can elevate your dining experience. In this article, we’ll explore how to cook delicious Vietnamese lobster dishes that will impress your family and friends.

Choosing the Right Lobster

When cooking Vietnamese lobster dishes, selecting the freshest lobster is crucial. Look for live lobsters with bright shells and actively moving tails. If purchasing frozen lobster, ensure it is of high quality and properly thawed before cooking.

Classic Vietnamese Lobster Curry

Ingredients:

  • 2 live lobsters (about 1.5 pounds each)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken or seafood broth
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Begin by slicing the lobsters in half lengthwise and removing any inedible parts. Set aside.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, add vegetable oil and sauté the onion until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk and broth, followed by the fish sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the lobster halves and cherry tomatoes to the pot, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the lobster is cooked through and tender.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside steamed rice to soak up the flavorful curry.

Vietnamese Grilled Lobster with Garlic Butter

Ingredients:

  • 2 live lobsters
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the lobster by splitting it in half and cleaning as necessary.
  2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, fish sauce, parsley, and chili flakes if desired.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Brush the lobster halves generously with the garlic butter mixture.
  5. Place the lobsters on the grill, shell side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes.
  6. Flip the lobsters and cook for another 3-4 minutes, basting with more garlic butter.
  7. Remove from the grill once the meat is opaque and slightly charred.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges.

Lobster Salad with Viet-style Dressing

Ingredients:

  • 2 cooked lobsters (meat removed and chopped)
  • 1 cup mixed leafy greens
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, or basil) for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and red chili to create the dressing. Stir well until sugar dissolves.
  2. In a large salad bowl, combine chopped lobster,