Lobster, once the food of poor farmers, is now considered a unique treat for many. Although some individuals prefer the meaty claws, I think that lobster tails are the best tasting part of this delicious creature. A great entree of lobster tails might seem like a gourmet feast to your guests, however they are actually quite simple to prepare. Add a little sprig of garnish and a fancy side dish and you're sure to impress even your mother in law.

Your lobster tails might start off a fresh or frozen, being in New England, fresh lobster is simple to come by however frozen might be all you can get in some ingredients of the country and in the off season. If your lobster tails are frozen, you need to thaw them out (you can cook them frozen but they will not be as tender). Put them in the fridge for 10 hours or so or thaw them in the microwave on defrost ? be very careful if you decide on this method as you don't want them to start cooking in the microwave.

After they are thawed, remove the meat from the shell by cutting open the back of the shell split it down the middle and open it up to reveal the meat. Lift the meat out you can quit the fan part of the tail on for show or not. Remove the vein.

Boiling Lobster Tails

Boil a pot of water large enough for all the tails to float in, add 1 tsp salt for each quart of water. Drop the tails in the boiling water and cook for about 1 minute per oz thawed (so 10 0z of tails requirements to cook for 10 minutes). If you are cooking a lot of tails, add a minute or two on to the total time.

Cooking Lobster Tails in the Oven

Lobster tails can be baked or broiled in the oven. To cook thawed lobster in the oven,set the oven to 400 degrees F. Brush the tails with butter and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. If broiling, place the tails four or 5 inches from the heat and broil for 2 - 5 minutes. When broiling keep a very close eye on them so that they don't burn on the tops.

Cooking Lobster Tails Using a Barbecue Grill Smoker

Oil the barbecue grill smoker to keep the lobsters from sticking. Put the grill on medium heat. Brush the lobster tails with butter and place on the grill. Make sure that the tails do not burn if there are any flames on the grill move the lobster away from it. Grill on each side for four-5 minutes.

Take care not to overcook your lobster or it will be rubbery and tasteless. Lobster is cooked when it is no longer transparent.