How to Make Chinese Lobster with Ginger and Scallions
If you're looking to impress your dinner guests with a flavorful and aromatic dish, Chinese lobster with ginger and scallions is an excellent choice. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the lobster, enhanced by the zesty flavors of ginger and the freshness of scallions. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Chinese-inspired seafood masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1 live lobster (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 inches of fresh ginger, sliced thinly
- 4-5 scallions, chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of rice wine or sherry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Lobster
Begin by preparing the lobster. Taking a sharp knife, carefully insert it into the head of the lobster to humanely kill it. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lobster for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shell turns bright red. Once cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool. After cooling, cut the lobster in half lengthwise and remove the meat from the claws and tail, keeping the shell intact.
Step 2: Stir-Frying the Aromatics
In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced ginger and minced garlic, stir-frying them until they are fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 3: Adding the Lobster
Add the lobster halves to the wok, cut side down. Allow them to sear for about 2 minutes to develop a nice color. Turn them over and add the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and rice wine. Toss gently to coat the lobster meat in the sauce.
Step 4: Incorporating Scallions and Finishing the Dish
Add the chopped scallions to the wok, stirring everything together. Cover the wok with a lid and let it steam for an additional 3-4 minutes to reheat the lobster and infuse it with the flavors of the aromatics.
Step 5: Seasoning and Serving
Remove the lid and check for seasoning. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is thoroughly combined and the lobster is heated through, transfer the lobster to a serving platter. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful Chinese lobster with ginger and scallions pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delectable seafood dish that brings a taste of the East to your dining table!
Final Thoughts
Making Chinese lobster with ginger and scallions may seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and steps, it can be a straightforward process. Impress your friends and family with this dish that highlights the wonderful flavors of Chinese cuisine. Happy cooking!