Introduction
Indulge in a luxurious Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto, a creamy and flavorful dish that combines succulent lobster with tangy lemon and rich butter. Perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Lobster:
- 2 lobster tails (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Risotto:
- 1 cup (200 g) Arborio rice
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 small onion or shallot, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white wine
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or seafood stock, kept warm
- 1/3 cup (40 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Lobster
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using kitchen scissors, cut along the top of each lobster tail shell and gently lift the meat, keeping it attached at the base. Place the tails on a baking sheet.
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in a small bowl. Mix in minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the lobster meat.
- Bake the lobster for 10-12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and fully cooked. Remove from the oven, chop the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
Step 2: Start the Risotto
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Arborio rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
- Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring, until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 4: Cook the Risotto
- Add the warm stock one ladle at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is creamy and tender.
Step 5: Finish the Risotto
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the remaining 1 tbsp of butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Add the Lobster
- Gently fold the chopped lobster into the risotto. Save a few pieces to place on top for presentation, if desired.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer the risotto to serving bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips:
- Use homemade lobster stock (made from the lobster shells) for an even richer flavor.
- For added elegance, drizzle a bit of truffle oil before serving.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
This Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto is the epitome of indulgence.