Are you a seafood lover who wants to enjoy the freshest, most flavorful lobster? Purchasing live lobster online is a convenient option, making knowing how to store it until you’re ready to cook it crucial. In this blog, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to store live lobster at home, ensuring that it stays fresh and delicious until you’re ready to dive in.
1. Proper Packaging
When your live lobsters arrive at your doorstep, it’s essential to handle them with care. Keep them in the original packaging or transfer them to a loose paper bag. Avoid using plastic bags as they can suffocate the lobsters.
2. Create a Moist Environment
Lobsters need to stay moist to maintain their freshness. Cover them with damp seaweed or damp newspaper to create a humid environment without making them wet. This helps prevent them from drying out and ensures their optimal flavor and texture.
3. Cool Temperature
Lobsters are sensitive to temperature changes, so it’s crucial to store them in a cool place. Ideally, keep them refrigerated between 32 to 40°F (0 to 4°C). Avoid storing them with ice or in tap water, as this can adversely affect the quality of the lobster meat.
4. Avoid Freezing
While freezing live lobsters may seem like a logical solution, it’s not recommended. Freezing alters the texture and flavor of the lobster meat, resulting in a less enjoyable dining experience. It’s best to consume lobsters within a day or two of their arrival.
5. Plan Your Cooking
When buying live lobsters, it’s essential to have a cooking plan in mind. Lobsters are best enjoyed when cooked as soon as possible after purchase. Aim to cook them within 24 hours to savor the freshest flavors and textures.
6. Additional Tips
- Avoid overcrowding the lobsters. Give them enough space to move around in the container or refrigerator.
- Check the lobsters regularly to ensure they remain alive during storage. Lobsters should be lively and have a strong response when touched.
- Always follow proper food safety guidelines when handling live seafood.
By following these simple storage tips, you can preserve the freshness and flavor of your live lobsters until you’re ready to impress your taste buds with a delectable lobster feast. At Klenda Seafood, our fresh products are responsibly sourced and of the highest quality. We deliver fresh Maine seafood, including live lobsters, directly to your door, or if you’re in the area, stop by our South Portland location!