Spiny Lobsters with Escargot Butter

Posted on October 17, 2023 by The Local Fish Team

This is a simple and elegant way to treat fresh Spiny Lobsters right out of the water. The secret ingredient to this herby butter is garlic, so don’t be afraid to add extra. Cognac is the classic, but we find that sherry works just as well. 

Ready in 30 minutes 
Serves 2 people

• 2 whole, live California Spiny Lobsters 
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 small shallot, peeled and chopped 
• 4 cloves garlic (or more), peeled and chopped 
• ½ cup coarsely chopped parsley 
• 3 tablespoons cognac 
• Sea salt to taste
• Heavy duty rubber gloves
• Flaky salt such as Maldon for finishing

STEP 1 Set a large pot of water to boil. When the water is boiling, set the Lobsters in the pot and quickly put the lid on top. Parboil for 7 minutes. Depending on the size of the pot, you may need to do this one Lobster at a time.

STEP 2 Use tongs to remove Lobsters from the pot and leave to cool. While Lobsters cool, make the butter. Pulse butter in a food processor along with shallots, garlic, parsley and cognac. Add salt to taste, but do not put your finger directly into the food processor. (Unplug the machine and use a spoon.) If you don’t have a food processor, this can all be done by hand. Butter can be made one day ahead, wrapped tightly in a log or stored covered in a bowl, and refrigerated. 

STEP 3 Set your broiler to high. Working one at a time and wearing heavy duty gloves, set the Lobster on a flat surface with its belly facing down. Holding the Lobster firmly with your non-dominant hand, use the other hand to halve the Lobsters lengthwise down the center using a large knife. Rinse any unwanted juice or liquid away with cool water under the sink.

STEP 4 Arrange cleaned Lobster halves on a sheet tray and coat with the escargot butter, packing it into all parts. Blast under the broiler until crisp, bubbling and slightly charred. Depending on your broiler this could take 1-4 minutes. Watch closely as not to burn. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky salt such as Maldon and serve immediately.

Looking for spiny lobster? We recommend checking our Instagram story for fishermen in our network (@getlocalfish). Buying directly from the harvester not only supports local fishermen, but it also reduces your carbon footprint, provides a fresher product, and gives you that feel-good factor. Be sure to follow our fellow fishermen and share their stories—social media is a powerful tool for connecting with the people behind your food.