Lobster and Caviar Gratin Served in the Shell

Imagine this: tender lobster bathed in a creamy, decadent sauce, nestled in its own shell, and finished with a touch of opulence – glistening pearls of caviar. Lobster and caviar gratin is a dish fit for a special occasion, a culinary masterpiece that's surprisingly achievable at home.

Get ready to impress your guests with this show-stopping recipe! In under two hours, you can create this restaurant-worthy dish that combines the sweetness of lobster with the rich complexity of caviar.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know to prepare this exquisite meal, including preparation time, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions. We'll also explore what caviar is, the best places to buy it, and how to serve caviar.

Before we dive into the recipe, let's address the star ingredient: caviar.

What is Caviar?

Caviar refers to the salt-cured eggs (roe) of sturgeon fish. It is considered a delicacy and is often associated with luxury and gourmet dining. There are several types of caviar, each with its own distinct flavor and texture. Some of the most esteemed varieties include Siberian Sturgeon Caviar, Royal Osetra Caviar, and Imperial Kaluga Caviar.

• Siberian Sturgeon Caviar: Known for its mild, nutty flavor and jet-black color.

  BUY SIBERIAN CAVIAR NOW

• Royal Osetra Caviar: Renowned for its large, buttery pearls and a taste with hints of hazelnut and brine.
• Imperial Kaluga Caviar: A rare and prized variety with a smooth texture and a taste that goes from creamy to slightly sweet.

Caviar prices can vary significantly depending on the type and source. For the freshest, top-quality caviar, look for reputable online retailers like Sturcaviar.com.

Sturcaviar.com is a one-stop shop for premium caviars, offering a variety of options to suit your taste and budget. They source their caviar sustainably from the finest producers around the world, ensuring the highest quality and ethical practices.

BUY ROYAL OSETRA CAVIAR NOW

 

Now, let's get cooking! 

Lobster and Caviar Gratin Served in the Shell Recipe Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour

Lobster and Caviar Gratin Served in the ShellIngredients Required

For this luxurious dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 whole lobsters
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fish stock
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Caviar of choice (Siberian Sturgeon Caviar, Royal Osetra Caviar, or Imperial Kaluga Caviar)

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Prepare the Lobsters

1. Boil the Lobsters: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lobsters and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until they are bright red. Remove the lobsters and let them cool.
2. Extract the Meat: Once cooled, crack the shells and carefully remove the meat from the claws and tails. Chop the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Reserve the shells for serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Gratin Mixture

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Deglaze with Wine: Add the white wine and cook until it reduces by half.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes. Gradually add the fish stock and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
4. Add Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine with Lobster Meat: Gently fold the chopped lobster meat into the sauce.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Fill the Shells: Spoon the lobster mixture back into the reserved shells.
3. Top with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the filled shells.
4. Bake: Place the filled shells on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 4: Serve with Caviar

1. Top with Caviar: Remove the gratins from the oven and let cool slightly. Just before serving, top each gratin with a generous spoonful of your preferred premium caviar (Siberian Sturgeon Caviar, Royal Osetra Caviar, or Imperial Kaluga Caviar).
2. Garnish: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Serving Caviar:

• Use a chilled mother-of-pearl spoon to avoid altering the delicate flavor of the caviar.
• Serve caviar alongside blinis, crackers, or toast points.
• Keep caviar chilled until ready to serve.

This lobster and caviar gratin is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a romantic dinner or an intimate gathering. With fresh, high-quality ingredients and a touch of elegance, you can create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the bounty of the sea.