How to Cook Lobster Claw and Knuckle Meat: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lobster claw and knuckle meat are considered by many to be the most delicious parts of the lobster. Their texture is firmer and denser compared to lobster tail, with a succulent and sweet flavor that is truly unmatched. While cooking a whole live lobster requires some skill, preparing the claw and knuckle meat is much easier since it often comes pre-cooked. If you’ve got some frozen lobster claw and knuckle meat in your freezer, you just need to properly thaw, drain, and incorporate it into your favorite recipes.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to cook lobster claw and knuckle meat at home. You’ll learn how to handle and prepare pre-cooked lobster meat, the best cooking methods, and 10 mouthwatering recipe ideas to inspire you. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality lobster claws and knuckles!

Overview of Lobster Claw and Knuckle Meat

Lobster claw meat comes from the crusher or pincer claw while knuckle meat is located in the knuckle joints where the claws connect to the body. The meat from these areas is removed from the shell before sale saving you time and effort.

Pre-cooked lobster meat provides an easy way to enjoy the exquisite taste of Maine lobster without having to boil and crack open a live lobster yourself. It comes fresh or frozen, so you can cook lobster any time of year. Let’s look at proper handling.

Handling and Preparing Lobster Claw and Knuckle Meat

Here are some tips for prepping frozen lobster meat:

• Keep frozen until ready to use. Do not refreeze after thawing.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge or place bag in cold water.
• Drain in a colander and pat dry – don’t squeeze or press.
• Pick through and remove any shell fragments.
• Use immediately after thawing and draining.

With these easy steps the lobster is ready to eat or cook with.

Top 10 Recipe Ideas

Here are 10 delicious ways to use thawed lobster claw and knuckle meat:

1. Lobster Rolls – The classic sandwich with lobster meat, mayo, and buttered, toasted buns.

2. Lobster Mac and Cheese – Creamy comfort food kicked up a notch with lobster.

3. Lobster Salad – Tossed with greens, lemon, herbs, and a light dressing.

4. Lobster Cakes – Formed into patties and pan-fried until crispy.

5. Lobster Quesadillas – Stuffed into tortillas with cheese for an appetizer.

6. Lobster Chowder – Chunks of tender lobster in a creamy, potato-based soup.

7. Lobster Risotto – Rich Italian rice dish with succulent lobster pieces.

8. Lobster Fra Diavolo – Served over spicy tomato linguine.

9. Lobster Omelet – Fluffy egg omelet filled with lobster meat.

10. Lobster Dip – Hot, creamy lobster dip with bread or crackers.

With pre-cooked lobster meat, making these tasty dishes is a breeze! Now let’s look at some specific recipes.

Step-by-Step Lobster Recipes

Here are two straightforward recipes for delicious lobster appetizers:

Easy Lobster-Butter Rolls

Ingredients:

• 1 package lobster claw & knuckle meat
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 hot dog buns
• Lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. Drain lobster meat and pat dry with paper towels. Dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, toss lobster chunks with melted butter and parsley.
3. Split and toast buns until golden brown.
4. Divide lobster mixture among buns.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Crispy Lobster-Parmesan Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 package lobster claw & knuckle meat
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Drain lobster meat and cut into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine panko and Parmesan. Place egg in another bowl.
3. Dip lobster pieces in egg, then coat with panko mixture.
4. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add lobster and cook 3-4 minutes per side until crispy.
5. Serve warm with lemon wedges or dipping sauce.

Cooking Tips

Follow these tips when cooking lobster claw and knuckle meat:

• Avoid overcooking or meat can become rubbery.
• Use gentle heat to warm through without toughening.
• Handle gently to keep texture intact.
• Enhance flavor with lemon, garlic, herbs, spices, butter.
• Let lobster shine – don’t overwhelm with other flavors.
• Cook just until warmed through and opaque.

With these handy guidelines and delicious recipes, you can easily prepare incredible lobster appetizers at home. Get creative with ingredients and cooking techniques while letting the sweet lobster flavor take center stage. Your family and friends will be impressed!