Lobster Thermidor with Tarragon

Lobster Thermidor is a classic French dish that is sure to impress your dinner guests. This rich and indulgent recipe combines succulent lobster meat with a creamy tarragon-infused sauce. The dish is then topped with a golden breadcrumb crust and baked to perfection. If you’re looking to elevate your cooking skills and create a show-stopping meal, then this Lobster Thermidor with Tarragon recipe is for you.

Ingredients:

• 2 lobsters (about 1 1/2 pounds each)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Lobster

Begin by cooking the lobsters. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water. Carefully place the lobsters into the pot and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they turn bright red. Remove the lobsters from the pot and let them cool.

Step 2: Removing the Lobster Meat

Once the lobsters have cooled, it’s time to remove the meat. Twist off the claws and crack them open with a lobster cracker or a nutcracker. Use a lobster pick or a small fork to extract the meat from the claws. Next, remove the tail by twisting it off the body. Cut the tail in half lengthwise and remove the meat. Set aside the lobster meat for later.

Step 3: Preparing the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for a minute or two to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, stirring constantly. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Gruyere cheese, Dijon mustard, and tarragon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the lobster meat into a baking dish and pour the sauce over it, ensuring that all the meat is coated. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the lobster and sauce.

Step 5: Baking the Lobster Thermidor

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning.

Step 6: Serving the Lobster Thermidor

Once the Lobster Thermidor is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh tarragon leaves. It pairs well with a side of steamed asparagus or a crisp green salad.

Now that you have the recipe for Lobster Thermidor with Tarragon, you can impress your guests with this decadent and flavorful dish. Enjoy the combination of tender lobster meat, creamy tarragon sauce, and crispy breadcrumb topping. Bon appétit!