The most popular ways to cook whole, live Maine Lobster are boiling, steaming, and grilling. Each produces delicious results, so the method you choose depends on what flavor and texture you are in the mood for.

Boiling

Boiling is the best approach for recipes that call for fully cooked and picked lobster meat.

Get step-by-step boiling instructions, and directions on how long to cook per pound of lobster here. 

Steaming

Steaming is a gentler cooking technique that produces a slightly more tender, flavorful meat. This method is more forgiving on the timing front - it’s harder to overcook a steamed lobster.

Get steps and tips on how to achieve an evenly cooked lobster and recommended steam times  here. 

Grilling 

Anyone can throw burgers on the grill, but adding lobster to the mix is sure to elevate your meal and earn you the title of backyard barbecue royalty.

Get instructions on how to season and grill the perfect lobster for the ultimate barbecue experience here. 

Pro Tip: Is it Done Yet?

Cooked lobsters will turn bright red, but that’s not the best indicator of doneness, especially for large lobsters. They may still be underdone when the shell turns red. Chef Jasper White recommends cooking the lobsters for the recommend time, then cracking one open where the carapace meets the tail. If it’s done, the meat will have changed from translucent to white.

Remove Meat Like a Pro

Once you have your cooked lobster, you need to know how to break down the shell without leaving behind a single delicious morsel.

Watch the video to learn how to breakdown a lobster like a lobsterman.