Lobster tail is a delicious and luxurious seafood that can be prepared in many different ways. Grilling lobster tail on the barbecue is a fantastic way to enhance the natural sweetness of the lobster meat. When done correctly, barbecued lobster tail can be succulent, tender and full of flavor. This guide will provide tips and step-by-step instructions for preparing perfect grilled lobster tail every time.
Benefits of Grilling Lobster Tail
There are several advantages to cooking lobster tail on the grill:
- Enhanced flavor – The heat from the grill sears the outside of the lobster tail, caramelizing the natural sugars and accentuating the sweet, briny flavor of the lobster. Grilling also infuses a subtle smoky aroma.
- Juicy texture – Grilling helps lock in the moisture and prevents the delicate lobster meat from drying out. When cooked properly, the meat will be succulent and tender.
- Quick and easy – Grilling lobster tail takes less time compared to other cooking methods like boiling or baking. It also requires minimal preparation and cleanup.
- Fun presentation – Grilled lobster looks impressive served whole with grill marks. It makes an elegant presentation for special occasions.
- Healthy – Grilling is a lower fat cooking method than frying or sauteing in butter. The high heat helps drain excess fat from the lobster.
With simple preparation and careful grilling, it’s easy to highlight the best qualities of lobster meat. The smoky, savory flavors make grilled lobster tail a real treat.
What You Need to Follow This Guide
Grilling lobster tail requires just a few simple supplies:
- Raw lobster tails – Look for tails that are at least 5-6 ounces each to ensure the meat cooks properly on the grill. Choose tails that are translucent and have a mild seafood aroma.
- Basting brush – Use to brush melted butter over the lobster tails.
- Grilling tools – Grill tongs and a spatula for easy handling. Long handled tools allow you to maneuver the tails safely.
- Oils and seasonings – Olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper and any other dry rubs or flavors.
- Sharp kitchen shears – To carefully cut through the top shell of the lobster tail before grilling.
- Aluminum foil – For easy grilling, tent the tails in foil pouches.
- Meat thermometer – To accurately check internal temperature and avoid overcooking.
That’s all you’ll need, along with a clean, well-oiled grill heated to medium-high heat. Charcoal or gas grills both work well for grilling lobster tails.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for perfect grilled lobster tail every time:
1. Prepare the Lobster Tails
Rinse the lobster tails under cold running water. Use kitchen shears to cut lengthwise through the top shell, stopping before the fin joint. Cut about 2/3 deep through the shell. This helps open up the shell to release flavours and speed up cooking time.
Gently run your thumb along the cut to crack the shell slightly. Be careful not to cut all the way through the meat.
2. Season the Lobster Meat
Brush the exposed lobster meat lightly with olive oil or melted butter. This prevents the delicate meat from drying out on the grill.
Season with salt, pepper and any other dry spices or herbs. Garlic powder, paprika, lemon pepper and Old Bay seasoning all pair well with lobster.
Rub the seasonings into the meat so they adhere properly. Go easy on thick spice rubs which can burn over high heat.
3. Grill in Foil Packets
Lay out two large sheets of heavy duty aluminum foil. Place two lobster tails meat-side up on each piece.
Bring the foil sides together and fold the edges tightly to seal the lobster tails into enclosed packets. Make sure the packets are fully sealed to prevent steam from escaping.
Grilling in foil pouches steams the lobster gently so it cooks through without drying out. The meat will baste in its natural juices.
4. Grill Over Direct Medium-High Heat
Heat your grill to medium-high. Use tongs to place the foil lobster packets directly over the heat. Close the grill lid.
Let the packets grill for 8-10 minutes. The outer shell should turn bright red and the meat should be opaque. Rotate the packets halfway during cooking time.
The exact grilling time can vary based on size of tails and heat intensity. Check packets occasionally and re-seal if needed.
5. Finish with Melted Butter
When fully cooked, remove packets from grill. Use tongs and gloves as the foil will be extremely hot. Carefully open packets to unveil grilled tails.
Brush reserved melted butter over lobster meat right before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges. Enjoy immediately for maximum tenderness.
Let leftover tails cool completely before refrigerating. Eat within 2 days for best quality. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven.
Grilling Tips for Perfect Lobster Tail
- Choose live lobster tails whenever possible for optimal freshness. Look for meat that is translucent white with red hues. Avoid yellow or grey meat.
- Prepare and season tails before heating up the grill. This saves time and prevents overcooking.
- Use the foil packet method to steam and baste lobster gently on the grill. Direct high heat can toughen and dry out delicate seafood.
- Cook over medium-high heat only. Lower heat allows meat to cook through without burning the shell. High heat risks charring the exterior before the center is done.
- Check doneness by verifying meat is opaque and reaches 145°F internally. The flesh should appear moist, not dry or cracked.
- Don’t grill lobster tails too far in advance. Serve immediately after cooking for the most tender texture.
- Add any sauces or extra seasoning after grilling. Brush on lemon-garlic butter, dip in melted cheese or spice it up with hot sauce.
Flavor Variations
The sweet flavor of lobster meat adapts well to many seasonings. Try these delicious variations:
Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails
Brush with lemon juice and garlic butter before & after grilling. Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
Cajun Spiced Lobster
Coat lobster with Cajun seasoning blend before grilling. Melt butter with hot sauce for dipping.
Parmesan Crusted Lobster
Top grilled lobster with crispy panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan.
Brown Sugar Chili Lobster
Marinate lobster in soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger and chili flakes. Sear on grill.
Mediterranean Lobster
Season lobster with dried oregano, thyme, olive oil and lemon zest.
Mix up the flavors and get creative with rubs and sauces to make each grilled lobster creation unique.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about grilling lobster tails:
How long does it take to grill lobster tails?
Cooking time is 8-10 minutes for 5-6 ounce tails grilled in foil packets over medium-high heat. Large tails may take 12-14 minutes. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer.
Can you grill lobster tails without foil?
Yes, but foil helps retain moisture. Grill shelled tails meat-side down for 2 minutes per side. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
What is the best way to prepare lobster for grilling?
Split the shell before grilling and season the meat. Grill in foil pouches over direct medium-high heat until opaque and 145°F internally.
Can I grill frozen lobster tails?
Not recommended. Thaw frozen tails overnight in the fridge before grilling. Slow thawing ensures even cooking.
How do you keep lobster tails from sticking to the grill?
Brush with oil to keep meat from sticking. Grill in foil to steam and separate meat from the grill. Avoid piercing the meat with sharp skewers.
What is the best sauce for grilled lobster tails?
Melted butter, lemon juice and garlic are classic accompaniments. Chili oil, teriyaki glaze and cheese sauce also pair well with grilled lobster.
Grilling out lobster tails may seem intimidating, but it’s easy with the right techniques. Follow this guide for foolproof barbecue lobster tail that impresses every time.
Conclusion
Grilling lobster tail is a quick and tasty way to prepare this luxurious seafood. The high heat of the barbecue accentuates the sweet flavor of the lobster meat while infusing it with a smoky aroma. Preparing the tails is simple and grilling in foil pouches keeps the meat moist. Experiment with fun herb rubs and flavorful sauces to make each experience unique. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy the magic combination of smoky and sweet juicy lobster straight off the grill. Armed with these helpful tips, you’ll be a pro at grilling tender, succulent lobster tail.