Lobster Roll
New England is a region known for its stunning coastline, idyllic small towns, and charming architecture. It is also home to one of the most beloved seafood dishes in the country - the Lobster Roll. This iconic sandwich is a summertime staple, made from fresh chunks of lobster meat, mixed with just the right amount of mayonnaise, and nestled in a buttery toasted bun. In this recipe, we will be exploring the quintessential New England Lobster Roll and how you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen.
At its core, a Lobster Roll is a simple dish that relies on the quality and freshness of its ingredients. The star of the show is, of course, the lobster. In New England, the best places to find fresh, high-quality lobster are at local fish markets or through lobster delivery services. You can choose to use whole lobsters and cook them yourself or buy them pre-cooked and picked. In either case, make sure the lobster you use is as fresh as possible and has been properly stored to maintain its flavor and texture.
Another important component of a Lobster Roll is the bun. Typically, New England-style hot dog buns are used, which are split at the top and have flat sides that can be toasted in butter. The buttery, crispy bun provides the perfect contrast to the creamy lobster salad, while also giving the dish a delectable flavor that is hard to resist.
The lobster filling is what sets the Lobster Roll apart from other seafood sandwiches. To make the filling, you will need to combine your cooked lobster meat with a few other ingredients. The traditional recipe calls for mayonnaise, celery, fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Some people also like to add a little bit of minced onion or herbs like dill or chives to give the filling an extra burst of flavor.
Once you have your lobster salad mixed and your buns toasted, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Start by spreading butter on the inside of the bun and then adding your lobster filling. You can choose to add a lettuce leaf or some chopped herbs on top for a bit of extra texture and freshness. Serve the Lobster Roll with some crispy French fries, homemade coleslaw or a simple salad, and your favorite beverage for the perfect summer meal.
In conclusion, the New England Lobster Roll is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. It is a celebration of the region’s bountiful seafood and the long-standing traditions of its coastal communities. Whether you are a lifelong resident of New England or a far-off traveler, there is something special about sinking your teeth into a freshly made Lobster Roll on a warm summer day. So, gather your ingredients, grab a cold drink, and get ready to savor the flavors of this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hot dog buns
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Chop the cooked lobster meat into small bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chopped lobster meat to the mayonnaise mixture and stir until well coated.
- Brush the hot dog buns with melted butter and toast them in a skillet until lightly browned.
- Divide the lobster mixture evenly among the four buns.
- Serve the lobster rolls immediately, with lemon wedges and additional chopped herbs, if desired.