For those who have spent time in New England, the lobster roll is a familiar and beloved dish. In Maine, it's practically a staple, appearing on nearly every restaurant menu. Even McDonald’s offers its version, though a traditional seafood shack is the preferred source. Lobster roll festivals and competitions are common during the summer, with everyone having their favorite spot for a "lobstah" roll served on a New England-style top-split hot dog roll. This recipe recreates all the rich flavors of a New England lobster roll in a much healthier, low-carb package!
The Keto-Friendly Twist
Traditional lobster rolls, with their tempting toasted hot dog rolls, are off-limits for those following a keto diet. While one could eat the filling alone, the allure of the roll is hard to resist. This recipe offers a better solution: a keto-friendly and healthier alternative that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
Lobster-Stuffed Avocados: A Deliciously Easy Option
Instead of traditional hot dog rolls, split an avocado in half, remove the pit, and fill it with lobster roll salad. This combines the lobster roll fix with protein and healthy fats. Pairing lobster with a fresh California avocado is a winning combination. The creamy, nutty flavor of the avocado enhances the seafood, creating a magical culinary experience. This recipe provides another delicious way to get some avocado into your diet.
Sriracha Lobster Roll Tacos: A Spicy Fusion
For a bolder twist, try Sriracha Lobster Roll Tacos. This recipe combines New England flavors with a spicy Tex-Mex Asian fusion.
The price of cold-water lobster has decreased significantly due to restaurant closures and reduced overseas demand. China, a major importer of live lobster, has experienced a significant drop in demand and shipping capabilities since the Coronavirus pandemic. This has made lobster more affordable.
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To make the tacos, steam fresh lobsters until fully cooked, then shock them in cold water. Chop the chilled lobster meat into bite-sized chunks and mix with mayo, sriracha, coconut aminos, lime juice, parsley, scallions, and togarashi. Assemble the tacos by layering shaved cabbage topped with the lobster roll mixture.
Keto Lobster Roll Salad: Simple and Delicious
Another option is to create a Keto Lobster Roll Salad. This can be eaten straight from the bowl or used to fill lettuce boats. Seafood lovers will appreciate this recipe, which is high in protein and low in fat, making it perfect for pairing with extra fats.
Authenticity vs. Personal Preference
A traditional lobster salad should be basic, highlighting the lobster's flavor. Purists might argue against adding celery or onion, but feel free to customize the recipe to your liking.
Traditionally, lobster salad and lobster rolls are distinct recipes. A Maine-style lobster roll is served cold with lobster and mayo in a toasted bun, while a Connecticut-style roll is served warm with lobster and melted butter in a toasted bun.
For those who prefer a bun, keto hot dog buns are a great option. Toast them in a skillet with butter for an authentic lobster roll experience.
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Recipe: Keto Lobster Roll Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (optional)
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crisp lettuce leaves
Instructions:
- Sprinkle lobster meat with lemon juice and chill.
- Mix mayonnaise with mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange lettuce leaves on a chilled salad dish.
- Place lobster meat on the lettuce and add a spoonful of dressing to each serving.
Recipe: Lobster Stuffed Avocados
Ingredients:
- Lobster meat
- Celery
- Green onion
- Melted butter
- Mayonnaise
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Avocados
- Fresh chives (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine lobster meat, celery, and green onion.
- Stir in melted butter, mayo, and lemon juice, and toss to combine.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Halve and pit avocados. Scoop out some flesh, leaving about 1/2 inch inside the skin.
- Stuff each avocado half with about 1/2 cup of the lobster mixture.
- Garnish with fresh chives, if desired.
Recipe: Sriracha Lobster Roll Tacos
Ingredients:
- Fresh lobsters
- Mayo
- Sriracha
- Coconut aminos
- Lime juice
- Parsley
- Scallions
- Togarashi
- Shaved cabbage
Instructions:
- Steam fresh lobsters until fully cooked, then shock in cold water.
- Chop chilled lobster meat into small bite-sized chunks.
- Mix together mayo, sriracha, coconut aminos, lime juice, parsley, scallions, and togarashi.
- Gently fold lobster meat into the dressing.
- Assemble tacos by layering shaved cabbage topped with lobster roll mixture.
Additional Tips and Considerations
- Lobster Quality: Fresh, live lobster is ideal. Ensure lobsters are cooked alive to avoid bacterial contamination. Freezing for 45 minutes beforehand is a humane option.
- Cost-Effective Alternatives: For a less expensive option, consider using langostino tails, shrimp, crawfish tails, or imitation crab.
- Bun Alternatives: Napa cabbage or lettuce can be used as a vessel for the lobster salad.
- Nutritional Information: One cup of lobster contains approximately 129 calories, 1.25g of fat, 27.5g of protein, and 0 grams of carbohydrates.
The History of Lobster
Lobster has a rich history, dating back to first-century Greece. Vikings consumed lobster on their voyages. In later years, it was even served in prisons, leading to complaints about cruel and unusual punishment. The advent of railways transformed lobster from prison fare to an upscale dish. During World War II, lobster was not rationed, making it an affordable option for Americans.
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