Austrian Lobster Cocktail

Austrian Lobster Cocktail Recipe - Delicious Lobster Tail Meat in a Flavorful Sauce

Region / culture: Austria | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

The Austrian Lobster Cocktail is a luxurious and elegant appetizer that combines the rich flavors of lobster with a creamy and tangy sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions and is sure to impress your guests with its sophisticated presentation and depth of flavor. The combination of fresh lobster meat with a variety of condiments and spices creates a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and indulgent.

History

The Austrian Lobster Cocktail is a variation of the classic seafood cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. The origins of the seafood cocktail can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it was popularized in the United States. However, the Austrian version of this dish incorporates unique European flavors, such as cognac and cointreau, which elevate the traditional recipe to a new level of elegance and complexity.

Ingredients

2 cups mayonnaise
2 tbsp tomato sauce
1.5 lb (680 g) lobster tail meat, roughly chopped
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
2 tsp capers, finely chopped
2 sweet gherkins, finely chopped
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley, plus more to garnish
1 hard-boiled egg, white finely chopped, yolk shaved with side of knife
1 tsp worcestershire sauce
hot sauce to taste
1 tbsp orange juice
0.5 lemon, juiced
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tsp mustard
2 tsp horseradish
1 tsp paprika, plus more to garnish
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp dry sherry
1 tbsp cognac
1 tbsp cointreau
lettuce, finely sliced
20 cooked, peeled shrimp
lemon wedges to garnish

How to prepare

Place mayonnaise in a bowl on top of crushed ice.
Add tomato sauce and 9 oz (255 g) of lobster meat.
In a separate bowl, combine onion, anchovy, capers, gherkins, 1 tbsp of parsley, and egg white and yolk.
Add this mixture to the lobster mayonnaise.
Add Worcestershire sauce, several shakes of hot sauce, orange juice, lemon juice, salt and pepper, mustard, horseradish, 1 tsp of paprika, cayenne pepper, sherry, cognac, and cointreau.
Carefully combine all the ingredients.
Season lettuce with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Divide the mixture among 10 champagne glasses.
Place the remaining lobster on top of the lettuce, then cover with lobster mayonnaise.
Garnish with 2 shrimp, parsley, paprika, and a lemon wedge.
Serve cold.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise. You can also add other seafood such as crabmeat or scallops to the cocktail for a more varied flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use fresh lobster meat. Cooking the lobster just until it's tender will prevent it from becoming rubbery. When mixing the sauce, do so gently to keep the lobster meat intact. Serving the cocktail on a bed of crushed ice not only keeps it chilled but also adds to the visual appeal of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Austrian Lobster Cocktail chilled on a bed of finely sliced lettuce. For an extra touch of elegance, present the cocktail in champagne glasses, garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of paprika.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing this dish is the gentle mixing of the sauce with the lobster meat to ensure the flavors are well combined without breaking the delicate meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lobster is not available, you can substitute it with crabmeat or cooked shrimp. Cognac can be replaced with brandy, and if you prefer not to use alcohol, simply omit the cognac, sherry, and cointreau.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce for the lobster cocktail can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the cocktail just before serving to ensure the lettuce remains crisp and the dish is served chilled.

Presentation Ideas

For an impressive presentation, serve the lobster cocktail in individual martini glasses, garnished with a sprig of fresh dill or parsley. A thin slice of lemon on the rim of the glass adds a colorful and refreshing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

The richness of the lobster cocktail pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Chablis or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

It is best to consume the Austrian Lobster Cocktail fresh and not store or reheat it, as the delicate flavors and textures are best enjoyed when freshly prepared.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the Austrian Lobster Cocktail contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a moderately caloric option, suitable for those who are mindful of their energy intake.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the tomato sauce, sweet gherkins, and orange juice. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 5 grams, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The Austrian Lobster Cocktail is rich in fats, primarily from the mayonnaise and the natural fats found in the lobster meat. The total fat content per serving is around 22 grams. However, using a light mayonnaise can help reduce the overall fat content.

Proteins

Lobster is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of this dish provides approximately 24 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building option for your meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Lobster is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and are abundantly found in this dish.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this dish are shellfish (lobster), eggs, and may contain traces of gluten from the Worcestershire sauce. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, the Austrian Lobster Cocktail is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of proteins and fats, with a low carbohydrate content. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a special occasion appetizer.

Summary

The Austrian Lobster Cocktail is a sumptuous and elegant appetizer that combines the luxurious taste of lobster with a rich and tangy sauce. Perfect for special occasions, this dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning. With its rich nutritional profile and the ability to be customized to suit dietary needs, it's a versatile recipe that's sure to become a favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Austrian Lobster Cocktail. It was a warm summer day when I stumbled upon an old cookbook in the attic of my aunt's house. The book was filled with recipes from all over the world, each one more intriguing than the last.

As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Austrian Lobster Cocktail. The combination of delicate lobster meat, fresh herbs, and tangy dressing sounded absolutely divine. I knew I had to try it.

I quickly scribbled down the ingredients and instructions, eager to recreate this exotic dish in my own kitchen. But little did I know, this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire for years to come.

The next day, I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients. I visited the local fish market to pick out the freshest lobster I could find. The fishmonger was kind enough to help me select the perfect specimen, and I left with a smile on my face, clutching a bag of lobster tails in my hand.

Back at home, I set to work preparing the dish. I carefully boiled the lobster tails until they were tender, then removed the meat from the shells and chopped it into bite-sized pieces. The vibrant red color of the lobster meat was a sight to behold, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

Next, I whipped up a zesty dressing using lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of Dijon mustard. I seasoned it with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh dill, adding a burst of flavor to the dish.

I mixed the lobster meat with the dressing, allowing the flavors to meld together. The aroma that wafted from the bowl was simply intoxicating, and I knew that this dish was going to be something special.

Finally, I plated the Austrian Lobster Cocktail, garnishing it with a sprig of fresh parsley for a pop of color. I stepped back to admire my creation, feeling a sense of pride wash over me. This dish was a true masterpiece, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, I served the Austrian Lobster Cocktail as an appetizer. The first bite was met with a chorus of delighted murmurs and satisfied sighs. The tender lobster meat paired perfectly with the zesty dressing, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that danced on our taste buds.

My family raved about the dish, showering me with compliments and requests for the recipe. I happily obliged, sharing the secret to creating this delectable Austrian Lobster Cocktail with those I loved.

Over the years, this recipe became a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I would turn to time and time again for special occasions and gatherings. Each time I made it, I would think back to that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe in that old cookbook, and I would smile, grateful for the joy that cooking had brought into my life.

And so, the recipe for Austrian Lobster Cocktail became more than just a dish to me. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish not only our bodies but also our souls. And for that, I will always be grateful.