Lobster Thermidor

 

Lobster Thermidor

Lobster Thermidor is a classic French dish featuring cooked lobster meat in a creamy sauce, served in its own shell and broiled with a cheesy breadcrumb topping. Here's a recipe for Lobster Thermidor: 

Ingredients: 

• 2 whole lobsters, about 1 1/2 pounds (680g) each 

• 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter 

• 1/4 cup (60ml) dry white wine 

• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream 

• 1/4 cup (60g) grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese 

• 2 shallots, minced 

• 1 tablespoon (15g) all-purpose flour 

• 1 tablespoon (15ml) brandy or cognac 

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 

• Salt and pepper, to taste 

• 1/2 cup (30g) breadcrumbs 

• 2 tablespoons (4g) fresh parsley, chopped 

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Instructions: 

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lobsters and cook for about 8-10 minutes until they turn bright red. Remove the lobsters and let them cool. 
2. Once the lobsters are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise, remove the meat from the claws and tail, and dice it into bite-sized pieces. Reserve the shells for serving. 
3. Preheat your oven to broil. 
4. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons (30g) of the butter over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. 
5. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux. Slowly add the wine and the cream, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. 
6. Stir in the brandy or cognac, Dijon mustard, and grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
7. Gently fold the diced lobster meat into the sauce, making sure the meat is well-coated. 
8. Spoon the lobster mixture back into the reserved shells, dividing it evenly between the four shell halves. 
9. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and the remaining 2 tablespoons (30g) of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the lobster-filled shells. 
10. Place the lobster halves on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. 

Serve your Lobster Thermidor immediately with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy this elegant and flavorful French dish!