How to Cook Chinese Lobster with Fresh Herbs
Cooking Chinese lobster with fresh herbs is a wonderful way to enjoy a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any special occasion. This recipe highlights the freshness of the lobster, enriched by a blend of herbs that complement its natural sweetness. Follow these simple steps to create a delectable meal that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
To prepare Chinese lobster with fresh herbs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 live lobsters (about 1.5 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup spring onions (scallions), chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (or Shaoxing wine)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cleaning the Lobster
Begin by cleaning the lobsters thoroughly. Rinse them under cold water and use a brush to scrub the shells to remove any dirt. This ensures that your dish will be clean and safe to prepare.
Step 2: Cooking the Lobster
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully add the lobsters. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, until they turn bright red. Remove the lobsters from the pot and allow them to cool before cracking the shells to extract the meat.
Step 3: Preparing the Sauce
In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring continuously until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Next, add the chopped spring onions and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Add the cooked lobster meat to the wok and stir well. Then, pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until the lobster is evenly coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Adding Fresh Herbs
Remove the wok from heat and incorporate the fresh cilantro and basil, stirring gently to keep the herbs intact. The residual heat will help release the flavors of the herbs without losing their vibrant color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chinese lobster hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Final Tips
For a more authentic experience, consider adding a touch of chili oil for heat or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture. Experiment with different herbs according to your taste preferences, as dill or parsley can also work well.
Chinese lobster with fresh herbs is not only a delight for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Enjoy this exquisite dish with family and friends, and savor the success of your culinary creation!