Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 people
How do you take an ordinary grilled cheese sandwich and turn the flavor volume up to eleven? Simple: just add lobster. The contrast between our fresh, rich, buttery, fluffy, sweet lobster meat and melty, slightly tangy sharp cheddar (not to mention crunchy, salty buttery bread) is a beautiful thing. Think of it as a Down East twist on a classic that allows you to get more mileage out of your lobster meat—this recipe yields four generous sandwiches, and if you add a cold, crisp pickle spear and some potato chips, you have a meal that will satisfy and delight a group of hungry foodies. To save time, order your lobster pre cooked and de-shelled, bibs optional!
Ingredients
8 slicescountry-style white bread
28 large slicessharp white cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons (1/2 a stick)salted butter, softened
1 lb.pre-cooked fresh lobster meat, tails, claws, and knuckle meat
¼ cupchopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, tarragon, and chives, if desired
Instructions
Recipe created by Vanessa Seder for Maine Lobster Now®
Step 1
Chop lobster into ½-inch pieces and set aside..
Step 2
On a large cutting board, butter one side of each slice of bread.
Step 3
Flip bread over, then layer half of the un-buttered sides with a slice of cheese, lobster, fresh herbs if desired, and another slice of cheese. Top with the remaining slices of bread buttered-side up.
Step 4
Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the sandwiches in batches, if necessary, and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Slice each in half and serve immediately. Enjoy!
I'm an avid culinary enthusiast with a particular expertise in the realm of gourmet sandwiches, blending unique flavors to create mouthwatering delights. My culinary journey has taken me through various cuisines, and today, I bring to you a gourmet twist that elevates the humble grilled cheese sandwich to new heights – the Lobster Grilled Cheese.
Now, let's delve into the details of this exquisite recipe, breaking down each component to showcase my depth of knowledge in both the art and science of cooking.
1. Lobster Preparation:
- The recipe suggests using 1 lb. of pre-cooked fresh lobster meat, including tails, claws, and knuckle meat. This not only emphasizes convenience but also ensures that the lobster is perfectly cooked and easily integrated into the sandwich.
2. Bread and Cheese Selection:
- Country-style white bread is the canvas for this culinary masterpiece. The choice of this bread type brings a rustic and hearty quality to the sandwich.
- The use of sharp white cheddar cheese, with its tangy and robust flavor profile, creates a perfect contrast to the sweet and buttery lobster meat. A total of 28 large slices of cheese is recommended, ensuring a decadent and indulgent experience.
3. Butter Enhancement:
- Butter plays a crucial role in achieving that golden-brown perfection. Four tablespoons (1/2 a stick) of softened salted butter are applied generously to one side of each bread slice before assembling the sandwich. This step contributes to the irresistible crunch and rich flavor.
4. Herbs for Complexity:
- The addition of fresh herbs, such as parsley, tarragon, and chives, adds a layer of complexity and freshness to the sandwich. This choice showcases an understanding of flavor balance and elevates the overall culinary experience.
5. Cooking Technique:
- The cooking process involves a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. The sandwiches are cooked until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3 to 5 minutes per side. This technique ensures that the cheese is perfectly melted, and the bread attains that desirable crispiness.
6. Serving and Presentation:
- The recipe creator, Vanessa Seder, suggests slicing each sandwich in half before serving. This not only aids in presentation but also makes it easier for diners to indulge in the rich and flavorful combination of lobster, cheese, and herbs.
In conclusion, this Lobster Grilled Cheese recipe is a testament to the fusion of culinary creativity and expertise. By combining high-quality ingredients, precise preparation techniques, and an understanding of flavor dynamics, it transforms a simple grilled cheese into a sophisticated and indulgent culinary experience. Enjoy this gourmet delight, and let your taste buds revel in the symphony of flavors carefully orchestrated in each bite.
