Lalitha Rao Pentapati provides advice for cooking lobster.

1. Tips for Cooking the
Perfect Lobster
Lalitha Rao Pentapati

2. Step 1: Preparation
Prior to cooking the lobster, you must place the
lobsters in the freezer. You can freeze it for 20
minutes if you are cooking it immediately, but it is
recommended that you complete this process
overnight. This prevents meat from potentially
sticking to the shell.

3. Step 1: Preparation (Cont.)
The next thing to consider when steaming lobster
is what size pot you plan to use. If you are cooking
multiple lobsters, an adequately-sized pot is
needed to give each lobster enough space to cook
thoroughly. It is highly recommended to use a 4-5
gallon pot if you plan cooking lobsters of around 6
to 8 pounds.

4. Step 2: Saturation
You will need 2 inches of either seawater or saltwater. Once you
place the water at the bottom of a kettle, make sure to bring the
water to a boil over high heat. Add the live lobsters, place them
into the kettle one at a time, and begin to log the time elapsed.
About halfway through the process, you should lift the lid, making
sure to practice caution with the intense steam. To ensure a
consistent and thorough cooking of each lobster, shift the lobsters
slightly while in the pot.

5. Step 3: Knowing the Signs
Typically, it takes around 9 times the amount of pounds in minutes.
For example, if you cooking approximately 2 pounds of lobster, it
should take 18 minutes. If you are cooking just 1 pound, 10 minutes
should suffice.
There are certain signs to look for that indicates that a lobster has
been fully cooked. The primary indicator you want to look for is the
consistency of the actual meat. If it’s translucent, it still needs
time to cook. If the meat has turned white, then it is ready to eat.