Wednesday, October 29, 2008

The Color of Maine Lobsters Exposed

By Sherry Shantel

What is greenish-brown or black in nature and is loved by many? Don't know? Another hint, one out of every 30 million of them has a blue shell when they are born. Still don't know? This would be the Maine lobster.

If a lobster's shell has black holes or marks on it; that is the result of wear and tear. They indicate that the older lobster hasn't recently shed its shell. The marks are not harmful.

The color of the shell had no affect on the flavor or texture of the lobster. When it is cooked, all of the color pigments are hidden, except the red one. That's why when your lobster is completely cooked; it will be red in color.

Cooking a lobster longer than necessary makes the meat tough. When cooked properly, lobster meat is creamy white in color. The shells are bright red and the front antennae are easily removed.

Maine Lobster can be boiled, grilled, steamed, and baked. The white meat is located in the tail, claws, and the knuckles. Meat is also found in parts of the body and the legs. The red matter in the tail section is the roe, or female eggs and is considered a delicacy like caviar. The green substance is located at the section of the body and tail and is known as tomalley, the liver, and has a peppery taste. This can be used in many recipes.

Lobster lovers might adore the tomalley, but; it shouldn't be consumed on a regular basis. As with other animals, contaminants may settle in the liver of the lobster, so it is always best to be on the safe side.

Maine lobster is healthy and tastes delicious-if, you go light on the butter. Hard to believe that Maine lobster has less calories, cholesterol, and saturated fats than leanbeef, skinless chicken or pork. Lobster also remains a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to reduce risk of heart disease and hardening of the arteries.

Celebrating any occasion by eating lobster would make it special. This delight is sweet, succulent, and tasty. Look for fresh Maine lobsters. Remind yourself, you are not looking for a red creature to begin with. It will be red when is ready to consume and enjoy.

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