Before heading out and buying one, you should learn a bit about what exactly a lobster is, how to prepare and serve it and where to buy it from.



A lobster is actually a broadly used term to describe a marine creature known as a crustacean. There are large clawed lobsters and then there are those without claws. Several types of lobsters that do not have claws are spiny lobsters, slipper lobsters, and squat lobsters.

Some of the best known and most popular types are the clawed lobster, the reef lobster and freshwater crawfish, which are found in a lot of southern and Creole recipes.

If you love seafood, you will almost definitely find lobster to be one of the tastiest and most special types. The lobster looks almost regal, sitting on the plate, and you know with a glance it is going to be succulent and bursting with flavor. Lobster is not cheap but you do get what you pay for.

The best prices (and usually the nicest, freshest lobster too) can be found in coastal regions and fishing villages. If you are far from the sea, the price will be higher. On average, a pound of lobster costs between $7.95 and $29.95, depending on the shop and its location.

If you plan to spend that much on a meal, it is very important that you know how to prepare and cook the lobster. It might seem daunting because it is a new food and cost a lot but it is quite easy to prepare lobster. You should buy one lobster per person, as a general rule. Some fishmongers offer to steam the lobster before you go home with it but it is best to take the lobster home live if you can because the taste will be fresher.

Once you have boiled, grilled or steamed the lobster, an easy way to serve it is with a bib, lemon and butter. This can get messy but is a delicious way to bring out the unmistakable lobster taste in all its glory.

Simple recipes tend to be the best with lobster because it has its own special taste and too many frills will detract from that. If you have any left over (unlikely but possible nonetheless!) you can take the shell off and make a po'boy sandwich or a lobster salad for the following day.

Eating lobster can make you feel like a true foodie. Remember, you do not have to be a gourmet food snob to enjoy delectable dishes like lobster. As long as you understand where to buy the lobster, how to prepare it, and find a great lobster recipe, you are sure to have a meal to remember. If you are a lobster novice, try your hand at doing a little research in the form of visiting your favorite local seafood restaurant and ordering up!