Crispy Lobster Bites with Garlic Butter Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Lobster Bites:

• 1 lb lobster tail meat, cut into 1–2 inch chunks (about 3–4 tails)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

• Salt, to taste

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Marinate the Lobster:

• Cut lobster tails into bite-sized chunks.

• Place in a bowl with buttermilk, a pinch of salt and pepper.

• Let sit for at least 15–30 minutes (up to 2 hours refrigerated). This tenderizes and adds flavor.

2. Prepare the Dredge:

In a shallow bowl or plate, whisk together:

• Flour

• Cornstarch

• Paprika

• Garlic powder

• Cayenne (if using)

• Salt & pepper

3. Fry the Lobster Bites:

1. Heat oil in a heavy skillet or deep fryer to 350–365°F (175–185°C).

2. Remove lobster pieces from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.

3. Dredge in seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.

4. Carefully lower into the hot oil and fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Don’t overcook — lobster cooks fast!

5. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant (don’t brown it).

3. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of salt.

4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley (if using).

🍽 To Serve:

• Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the crispy lobster bites, or

• Serve as a dipping sauce on the side.

• Garnish with lemon wedges and more parsley if desired.