How to Make Vietnamese Lobster with Garlic and Butter
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and one of the standout dishes is Vietnamese lobster with garlic and butter. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of lobster with aromatic garlic and rich butter, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Follow this simple recipe to make your own delicious Vietnamese lobster at home.
Ingredients
- 2 live lobsters (about 1.5 pounds each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Chili flakes (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lobsters
Begin by preparing your lobsters. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. Carefully add the lobsters, headfirst, into the pot. Boil for approximately 8-10 minutes until they turn bright red. Remove the lobsters and place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Chop the Lobsters
Once the lobsters have cooled, place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully split each lobster in half lengthwise. Remove the stomach and any bad bits, and set the lobster halves aside.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn. Once the garlic is golden, add the fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes for the flavors to combine.
4. Cook the Lobster
Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Place the lobster halves on the grill with the cut side facing up. Brush generously with the garlic butter sauce. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. For a smoky flavor, you can also finish the lobsters on the grill shell-side down for the last minute.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the lobster from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and sprinkle chili flakes for an extra kick. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for an added zing.
Tips for the Perfect Vietnamese Lobster
- Make sure to use fresh lobsters for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and chili flakes based on your taste preferences.
- You can substitute the cilantro with green onions for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Enjoy this luxurious Vietnamese lobster with garlic and butter dish at your next family gathering or special occasion. With its rich flavors and elegant presentation, it's sure to impress your guests and provide a true taste of Vietnam right at your home!