How to Smoke Lobster Tails

There's no doubt about it, lobster tails aren't something you cook every day, so you may be a little wary of cooking these beauties in a smoker. However, if you do it right, you'll enjoy tender, succulent lobster like you've never enjoyed it before. Read on to learn how to smoke lobster tails.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lobster tails (1 1/2 to 2 lbs.)
• Melted butter
• Granulated garlic
• Fresh lemon wedges
• Wood or electric smoker
• Wood chips or pellets for smoker

1. If you have an electric smoker, turn it to smoke, or the lowest setting available. In a charcoal smoker, make a charcoal fire in the smoker, and let the charcoal burn down until the heat is low and constant. You want the temperature around 100 to 200 degrees, or as low as your smoker still makes smoke.

2. Cut open the top of the lobster tail shell with a pair of kitchen shears. Do not cut all the way through the tail section. Spread the shell open and loosen the lobster meat.

3. Melt the butter in a small saucepan and add about 1 tbsp. granulated garlic, or to your taste.

4. Pour the melted butter over the lobster meat and allow to soak in.

5. Place the lobster tails on the smoker grill, as far away from the direct heat as possible.

6. Smoke until the tails are done, usually about 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the size and the heat of your smoker. Tails are done when the flesh turns pink but is still soft to the touch. If you cook it too long, it will get tough, so check the tails often as they smoke.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy the freshest lobster available for the best results.
• Don't cook the lobster too much as it will be tough and rubbery.