Lobster rolls require fresh ingredients and a simple recipe, with options for melted butter or lobster salad. Use large chunks of lobster meat and a fresh bun, and serve hot or cold. Lobster rolls are a summer favorite in the Northeastern US.
When making lobster rolls, the key is fresh ingredients and keeping the sandwich simple. This sandwich can consist of lobster meat, melted butter, dressing, and a little celery on a hot dog roll. Another variation calls for mayonnaise, shallots, and herbs in place of butter to create a lobster salad. Both types of sandwiches are considered lobster rolls. Using large chunks of lobster meat, no smaller than 0.5 inch (1.27 cm) in size, and toasting the bun until golden brown are important elements in making this a summer favorite.
The main component of a lobster roll is the lobster meat. Being generous with the portion of meat on a roll is important. Lobster meat from the claws, knuckles and tail is usually used. A good rule of thumb is to use about 3.5 ounces (99 grams) of lobster meat per roll.
Cooking lobster at home can prove to be more economical than buying pre-cooked meat. It also allows the cook to season the pot of water, which many people believe creates tastier meat. Purchasing lobster meat, fresh or frozen, is also an appropriate option. Look for lobster meat that smells sweet and is white, two signs of freshness.
A New England-style hot dog roll, which is split at the top and has no crust on the sides, is preferred by many for this particular sandwich. Traditional hot dog rolls can work just as well, but either way, a fresh bun is essential. Lightly buttering and grilling the hot dog roll will add flavor. Paprika and other spices can be added to taste, but be careful not to overwhelm the lobster meat with too many different flavors.
The type of lobster roll that calls for melted butter is usually served with hot lobster meat; a lobster salad is usually served cold. Some people prefer to have hot butter poured over the lobster meat after the sandwich is put together, while others pour it over the lobster meat before placing it on the hot dog bun. Lobster rolls allow for several variations based on personal preference.
Commonly associated with the U.S. state of Maine, lobster rolls are also found in other U.S. states where lobsters are frequently caught, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. Beginning in the early 1900s, lobster rolls could be found at roadside restaurants near the beach and along the shore. They are also often served in fine restaurants.
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