How to Cook Lobster Tails on BBQ
Grilling lobster tails on the BBQ is a delicious and impressive way to enjoy this decadent seafood. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a unique twist to the sweet and succulent lobster meat. If you’re looking to try this cooking method, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook lobster tails on the BBQ.
How Long Does it Take to Grill Lobster Tails?
The cooking time for grilling lobster tails can vary depending on the size and thickness of the tails. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect it to take about 5-7 minutes per ounce of lobster meat. So, if you have a 6-ounce lobster tail, it would take approximately 30-42 minutes on the grill. It’s important to keep a close eye on the lobster tails while grilling to prevent overcooking, as they can become tough and rubbery if left on the grill for too long.
How Do You Prepare Lobster Tails for Grilling?
Before grilling lobster tails, it’s essential to prepare them properly to ensure they cook evenly and retain their moisture. Here’s a simple method to prepare lobster tails for grilling:
1. Thaw the lobster tails if they are frozen. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or thaw them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
2. Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut the top shell of the lobster tail lengthwise, starting from the open end and stopping just before the tail fin. Be careful not to cut through the bottom shell.
3. Gently pry open the shell to expose the meat, making sure to keep it attached at the tail end.
4. Carefully lift the meat from the shell, keeping it attached near the tail. Place the meat on top of the shell, so it sits on top like a “piggyback.”
5. Optional: Insert a skewer through the lobster meat lengthwise to help keep it in place during grilling.
6. Brush the lobster tails with melted butter or your favorite marinade for added flavor.
Can You Cook Raw Lobster on the Grill?
Yes, you can cook raw lobster on the grill. In fact, grilling is a popular cooking method for lobster tails, as it imparts a smoky flavor and adds a nice char to the meat. As mentioned earlier, it’s essential to properly prepare the lobster tails before grilling to ensure they cook evenly and retain their moisture. The high heat of the grill will cook the raw lobster meat to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful lobster tails.
In conclusion, grilling lobster tails on the BBQ is a fantastic way to enjoy this luxurious seafood. By following the steps mentioned above, you can prepare and cook lobster tails on the grill to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking to impress your dinner guests, grilled lobster tails are sure to be a hit.
Do you grill lobster tails up or down?
When grilling lobster tails, it is recommended to grill them shell-side down. This allows the shell to protect the delicate meat from direct heat, preventing it from drying out too quickly. Grilling the lobster tails shell-side down also helps to enhance the smoky flavor and gives them a nice charred appearance.
How long does it take to grill a 4 ounce lobster tail?
The cooking time for a 4-ounce lobster tail can vary depending on the heat of the grill and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, it typically takes about 8-10 minutes to grill a 4-ounce lobster tail. It is important to monitor the cooking process closely to avoid overcooking, as lobster meat can become tough and rubbery if cooked for too long.
How do you keep lobster from sticking to the grill?
To prevent lobster tails from sticking to the grill, it is important to properly prepare them before grilling. One way to do this is by brushing the grill grates with oil or using a non-stick cooking spray. This creates a barrier between the lobster tails and the grill, reducing the likelihood of sticking. Additionally, it is recommended to lightly oil the lobster tails themselves before placing them on the grill.
What is the best method of cooking lobster tails?
There are several methods for cooking lobster tails, each offering its own unique flavors and textures. Some of the most popular methods include grilling, boiling, steaming, and baking. The best method ultimately depends on personal preference and desired outcome. Grilling can impart a smoky flavor and charred appearance, while boiling or steaming can result in a tender and succulent texture. Baking is another option that can be used to create a rich and flavorful dish.
Do you rinse lobster tail before cooking?
It is generally recommended to rinse lobster tails before cooking. Rinsing helps to remove any grit or debris that may be present on the surface of the shells. This step is particularly important if the lobster tails have not been previously cleaned. Rinsing can be done under cold running water, ensuring that any remaining particles are washed away. After rinsing, it is advisable to pat the lobster tails dry with a paper towel before proceeding with the chosen cooking method.
Do you thaw lobster tails before grilling?
Yes, it is recommended to thaw lobster tails before grilling them. This ensures that the lobster meat cooks evenly and prevents it from becoming overcooked on the outside and undercooked on the inside. Thawing the lobster tails also allows for better flavor absorption during the grilling process.
How hot should the grill be for lobster tails?
The grill should be preheated to a medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C), for grilling lobster tails. This temperature allows for a nice sear on the outside of the tails while ensuring that the meat cooks through without drying out.
What temperature do you grill lobster gas grill?
When grilling lobster tails on a gas grill, it is recommended to set the heat to medium-high, around 400-450°F (204-232°C). This temperature range allows for the lobster tails to cook evenly and develop a delicious char on the outside while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
How long to cook 2 lobster tails?
The cooking time for 2 lobster tails will depend on their size and cooking method. As a general guideline, if grilling lobster tails, it usually takes about 8-10 minutes for 2 medium-sized lobster tails. However, it is important to always check the internal temperature and adjust the cooking time accordingly. The lobster tails are done when the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C).
How long do lobster tails take at 350?
If cooking lobster tails at 350°F (177°C), it typically takes about 20-25 minutes for them to cook through. However, it is always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C) for perfectly cooked lobster tails.
Summary
Thawing lobster tails before grilling is important to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption. The grill should be preheated to a medium-high heat of around 400-450°F (204-232°C) for grilling lobster tails. Cooking time for 2 lobster tails can vary but usually takes about 8-10 minutes on the grill. If cooking at 350°F (177°C), lobster tails will take approximately 20-25 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C) for perfectly cooked lobster tails.
