Cooking Lobster Cakes from Whole Foods: A Delicious and Rewarding Experience

Lobster cakes are a delicacy that many people enjoy in restaurants, but few attempt to make at home. However, with the right ingredients and a bit of practice, you can create delicious lobster cakes from whole foods that rival those served in the finest seafood restaurants. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of cooking lobster cakes from whole foods, including how to select and prepare the lobster, mix the ingredients, shape the cakes, and cook them to perfection.

Selecting and Preparing the Lobster

The first step in making lobster cakes from whole foods is to select and prepare the lobster. You’ll need to purchase one or more whole lobsters, depending on the number of cakes you want to make. When selecting a lobster, look for one that is heavy for its size and has a hard shell. Avoid lobsters with soft shells or those that are light for their size, as they may not be as fresh.

Once you’ve selected your lobster, you’ll need to cook and prepare it for use in the cakes. To do this, follow these steps:

Cooking the Lobster

• Fill a large pot with enough saltwater to cover the lobster.
• Add 2-3 tablespoons of salt to the water for every quart of water.
• Bring the water to a boil and then carefully add the lobster to the pot.
• Cover the pot and cook the lobster for 5-7 minutes per pound, or until it is bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
• Remove the lobster from the pot and immediately submerge it in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Extracting the Meat

• Once the lobster has cooled, twist off the tail and claws and set them aside.
• Remove the meat from the tail and claws, taking care to remove any cartilage or shell fragments.
• Cut the meat into small pieces and set it aside.

Mixing the Ingredients

Now that you have the lobster meat, it’s time to mix the ingredients for the cakes. You’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound lobster meat
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 egg, lightly beaten

To mix the ingredients, follow these steps:

Combining the Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, combine the lobster meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Mix the ingredients gently until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
• Stir in the lemon juice and egg until they are fully incorporated.

Shaping the Cakes

Now that the ingredients are mixed, it’s time to shape the cakes. To do this, follow these steps:

Dividing the Mixture

• Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on the size of cakes you want to make.
• Shape each portion into a round cake.

Coating the Cakes

• Dip each cake into a plate of panko breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the cake to help them stick.
• Place the coated cakes on a plate or tray and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to set.

Cooking the Cakes

Now that the cakes are shaped and coated, it’s time to cook them. You can cook the cakes in a skillet or in the oven. Here’s how to do both:

Pan-Frying the Cakes

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
• Add the cakes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Baking the Cakes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Drizzle the tops of the cakes with a little bit of oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serving the Cakes

Now that the cakes are cooked, it’s time to serve them. You can serve the cakes on their own or with a variety of toppings, such as tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a remoulade sauce. Here are a few ideas for serving the cakes:

Lobster Cake Sandwiches

• Serve the cakes on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.
• Add a side of fries or coleslaw for a delicious and filling meal.

Lobster Cake Salad

• Serve the cakes on top of a mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette.
• Add some crusty bread on the side for a satisfying and healthy meal.

Conclusion

Cooking lobster cakes from whole foods is a delicious and rewarding experience that’s sure to impress your friends and family. With the right ingredients and a bit of practice, you can create cakes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a flavor that’s both rich and refined. Whether you serve the cakes on their own or with a variety of toppings, they’re sure to be a hit. So why not give it a try? With this recipe and a bit of practice, you’ll be making delicious lobster cakes like a pro in no time.

1. Twist off the tail and claws of the lobster and set them aside.
2. Remove the meat from the tail and claws, taking care to remove any cartilage or shell fragments.

What is the best way to purchase whole lobsters for making lobster cakes?

When purchasing whole lobsters for making lobster cakes, it’s essential to choose fresh and high-quality lobsters. Look for lobsters that are heavy for their size, have a hard shell, and are active. You can purchase whole lobsters from a local fish market, seafood store, or some supermarkets that carry fresh seafood. Make sure to check the origin and freshness of the lobsters before making a purchase.

It’s also crucial to handle the lobsters humanely and store them properly until you’re ready to cook them. Keep the lobsters in a cool, moist environment, and cook them as soon as possible. If you’re not planning to cook the lobsters immediately, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, it’s recommended to cook them fresh for the best flavor and texture.

How do I cook the whole lobsters before making the lobster cakes?

To cook the whole lobsters, fill a large pot with enough saltwater to cover the lobsters. Add 2-3 tablespoons of salt for every quart of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then carefully add the lobsters to the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and cook the lobsters for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until they’re bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Once the lobsters are cooked, immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will help the lobsters cool down quickly and make them easier to handle. After the lobsters have cooled, you can twist off the claws and tail, and extract the meat from the shell. Be sure to reserve any juices or liquid from the lobsters, as this will add flavor to your lobster cakes.

What are the essential ingredients for making lobster cakes?

The essential ingredients for making lobster cakes include lobster meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need some chopped scallions, parsley, or chives for added flavor and texture. Additionally, you’ll need some egg and butter or oil for binding and cooking the lobster cakes.

It’s essential to use high-quality ingredients, especially the lobster meat, to ensure the best flavor and texture. Fresh and flavorful ingredients will make a significant difference in the overall taste and quality of your lobster cakes. Be sure to handle the ingredients gently and avoid overmixing the batter to prevent the lobster cakes from becoming dense and tough.

How do I prevent the lobster cakes from falling apart when cooking?

To prevent the lobster cakes from falling apart when cooking, it’s crucial to handle the batter gently and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can cause the batter to become dense and tough, leading to lobster cakes that fall apart easily. Instead, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a cohesive batter.

Another tip is to chill the lobster cakes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the batter firm up and hold its shape better when cooked. When cooking the lobster cakes, make sure the pan is hot and the oil is at the right temperature. This will help the lobster cakes sear and hold their shape. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and cook the lobster cakes in batches if necessary.

What is the best way to cook the lobster cakes?

The best way to cook the lobster cakes is to pan-fry them in a hot skillet with some oil or butter. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat, and add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan. When the oil is hot, add the lobster cakes to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Alternatively, you can bake the lobster cakes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and lightly browned. However, pan-frying is the preferred method, as it adds a crispy exterior and a tender interior to the lobster cakes. Be sure to cook the lobster cakes until they’re cooked through and heated to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).

Can I make the lobster cakes ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can make the lobster cakes ahead of time and freeze them for later use. To freeze the lobster cakes, shape the batter into patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the lobster cakes until they’re solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Frozen lobster cakes can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook the lobster cakes, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or thaw them quickly by submerging them in cold water. Cook the lobster cakes as directed, and serve them hot. Keep in mind that frozen lobster cakes may not be as fresh as freshly made ones, but they’ll still be delicious and flavorful.

What are some popular sides and sauces to serve with lobster cakes?

Some popular sides to serve with lobster cakes include mixed greens salad, roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, and sweet potato fries. You can also serve the lobster cakes with a side of tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or remoulade sauce. For a more indulgent option, try serving the lobster cakes with a side of garlic butter or lemon aioli.

Other popular options include serving the lobster cakes on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce, or as part of a seafood platter with other seafood delicacies. You can also get creative and serve the lobster cakes with a side of spicy mango salsa or a citrus-herb sauce. The key is to find a balance of flavors and textures that complement the rich and buttery flavor of the lobster cakes.