How to Boil Lobsters
From your New England for Visitors Guide

Boiling is probably the most popular way to cook New England lobsters, and it's easier than you might think!

Difficulty Level: Easy    Time Required: 25 minutes

1. Fill a large pot half to two-thirds full with water.
2. Set your burner to high heat and bring water to a rolling boil.
3. Add lobsters to the pot head first, making sure that they are completely submerged.
4. Cover the pot tightly and return to a boil as quickly as possible.
5. Once water is boiling again, cook the lobsters 10 minutes for the first pound and 3 additional minutes for each additional pound, i.e., cook a two-pound lobster for 13 minutes.
6. When the antennae pull out easy, the lobsters are done.
7. Serve with melted butter.
   

Tips:

1. Be sure to keep the water boiling throughout the cooking time, but be careful that the pot does not boil over.
2. Times given are for hard-shelled lobsters; if cooking new shell lobsters, reduce boiling time by 3 minutes.
3. Try adding a cup of white wine to the water before boiling to add a bit of flavor.

Related Information:

• Lobster Links
• Lobster Recipes from New England
• Lobster at Home
• Lobster in Bed
  

More How To's from your Guide to New England for Visitors