Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista'

Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' Recipe - A Delicious Taste from The Bahamas

Region / culture: Bahamas, The Bahamas | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' is a luxurious and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Bahamian cuisine. This recipe combines the rich, succulent taste of lobster with a creamy white sauce, enhanced by a blend of spices, vegetables, and a hint of brandy, creating a dish that is both sophisticated and comforting. Perfect for special occasions or a lavish weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and depth of flavor.

History

The origins of the Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' can be traced back to the culinary traditions of the Bahamas, where seafood plays a pivotal role in the diet. Lobster, in particular, is a prized ingredient in Bahamian cuisine, celebrated for its tender meat and versatility. The 'Buena Vista' version of the dish is a modern interpretation that incorporates elements of French cooking techniques, such as flambéing with brandy and preparing a roux-based white sauce, showcasing the fusion of cultures that characterizes Bahamian cuisine.

Ingredients

4 lobsters, boiled
1 chopped onion
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
2 tsp chopped parsley
2 oz (57 g) brandy
a few drops of tabasco sauce
4 cups white sauce
1 cup sliced mushrooms
salt and pepper
0.5 cup breadcrumbs
2 tsp worcestershire sauce

White sauce

1 part butter
1 part flour
fish stock (enough to achieve desired thickness)

How to prepare

Halve the lobsters.
Remove the meat and dice it.
Wash the shells and keep them.
In a saucepan, melt some butter, add the onions and garlic, sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add the lobster meat and flambé it with the brandy, add the mushrooms and simmer for a few minutes, stir in the mustard, Tabasco, and Worcestershire sauce, and cook over low heat for a few more minutes.
Mix in the white sauce, remove from heat and add the parsley.
Season with salt and pepper and fill the shells with the mixture, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and place under the broiler for a few minutes to glaze.

White sauce

In a saucepan, melt equal parts of butter and flour over low heat, whisk them together (do not let the mixture get brown) until you obtain a smooth paste.
Let it cool for a few minutes, then gradually add some hot fish stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Bring the mixture slowly to a boil and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half of the butter in the white sauce with olive oil and use whole wheat breadcrumbs for topping. To add a spicy kick, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add chopped chili peppers to the sauté.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when preparing Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista', consider the following tips:

- Use fresh lobsters for optimal flavor and texture. Boil them just until cooked to avoid tough meat.

- Flambé the lobster meat with brandy carefully, ensuring the alcohol burns off, leaving behind its rich flavor.

- Gradually add the fish stock to the roux while preparing the white sauce to prevent lumps.

- Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, balancing the heat from the Tabasco sauce with the creaminess of the white sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' with a side of steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, and a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of crisp, white wine complements the flavors beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

Key techniques in this recipe include boiling lobster, making a roux for the white sauce, flambéing, and broiling to achieve a golden, crispy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lobster is not available, substitute with large shrimp or crab meat. For a non-alcoholic version, use lobster or fish stock instead of brandy.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the white sauce and lobster filling a day ahead and refrigerate. On the day of serving, fill the lobster shells and broil just before serving to ensure a fresh, delicious meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the filled lobster shells on a bed of mixed greens or edible flowers for an elegant presentation. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the lobster. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven, covered with foil, to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' contains approximately 400-450 calories, making it a relatively indulgent option suitable for special occasions.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the breadcrumbs used for topping and the flour in the white sauce. A serving of Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is relatively high in fats due to the butter used in the white sauce and for sautéing, as well as the natural fats found in lobster. A serving contains about 20-25 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Lobster is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A serving of Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' provides roughly 30-35 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-friendly option.

Vitamins and minerals

Lobster is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. The dish also contains vitamins A and D from the butter, as well as various B vitamins from the mushrooms and onions.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as shellfish (lobster), dairy (butter), and gluten (flour, breadcrumbs). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' is a rich, protein-packed dish that also provides a good amount of vitamins and minerals. However, due to its high fat and calorie content, it's best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

The Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' is a celebration of the rich seafood tradition of the Bahamas, offering a luxurious blend of flavors and textures. With its elegant presentation and indulgent taste, it's the perfect dish for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something truly special.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day in the Bahamas, and I was walking along the beach when I stumbled upon a small restaurant called Buena Vista. The aroma of fresh seafood wafted through the air, tempting me to step inside.

As I entered the cozy establishment, I was greeted by the friendly owner, a Bahamian woman named Maria. She welcomed me with a warm smile and invited me to sit at the bar. I ordered a cold drink and watched as Maria expertly prepared a dish that caught my eye - Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista'.

I couldn't help but marvel at the way Maria effortlessly handled the lobster, cracking open the shell with precision and skill. The dish was a symphony of flavors - tender lobster meat smothered in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, onions, and a medley of spices. It was a true masterpiece.

Intrigued by the recipe, I struck up a conversation with Maria and asked her how she learned to make such a delectable dish. She chuckled and told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, a closely guarded secret that she was more than happy to share with me.

Maria graciously invited me into her kitchen and showed me step-by-step how to make Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista'. She explained that the key to a perfect dish lies in using fresh, local ingredients and cooking with love and care. As she guided me through the process, I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for her culinary expertise.

After several hours of cooking and tasting, the dish was finally ready. Maria plated the lobster with a generous serving of rice and peas, a traditional Bahamian side dish. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and aromas that I had never experienced before. It was like a taste of paradise.

From that day on, Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista' became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often recreate the dish for my family and friends, sharing the recipe and the story of how I learned to make it from Maria. They were always amazed at the depth of flavor and the simplicity of the dish, just like I had been when I first saw it being prepared.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own twist and flair to make it truly my own. But no matter how many times I made it, the dish always reminded me of that warm summer day in the Bahamas, and the kind-hearted woman who had shared her culinary secrets with me.

Now, whenever I cook Bahamian Lobster 'Buena Vista', I do so with a sense of pride and gratitude. It's not just a dish to me - it's a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with the ones we love. And for that, I will always be thankful to Maria and her little restaurant by the beach.