When the sun sets and the week draws to a close, there’s nothing quite like treating yourself to a luxurious homemade meal that transcends the ordinary. Enter my Lobster with Yi Mein Noodles—a delightful recipe that transforms fresh lobster into an unforgettable dining experience. The first time I tried this dish, the combination of tender lobster and springy Yi Mein noodles left me craving more long after the last bite.
Imagine the gentle crunch as you fry the lobster pieces to perfection, releasing a heavenly aroma that will enchant anyone nearby. As you toss the noodles in a savory sauce, the vibrant colors and rich flavors come together harmoniously, resulting in a dish that not only satisfies but also impresses guests. Whether you’re winding down after a busy week or planning a special dinner, this recipe is a game-changer that elevates your home cooking to gourmet heights. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and bring a taste of luxury to your kitchen!
Why are Lobster Noodles irresistible?
Delicious Layers of Flavor: The infusion of savory sauces enhances every bite of tender lobster and springy noodles, creating a symphony of taste.
Impressive Presentation: Garnished with scallions and ginger, this dish has a restaurant-quality appeal that will wow your guests.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll achieve a gourmet-level meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s date night or a celebratory dinner, these Lobster Noodles elevate any event.
Versatile Base: Experiment with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this dish your own!
Embrace the culinary journey and dive into this luxurious experience that makes every mouthful memorable.
Lobster Noodles Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for your sumptuous Lobster Noodles!
For the Lobster
- 2 live lobsters – Aim for 1¼ to 1½ pounds for the best meat-to-shell ratio.
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken stock – This adds moisture and flavor to the lobster sauce.
- 2 teaspoons oyster sauce – Enhances the umami profile of the dish.
- 1½ teaspoons light soy sauce – Balances the flavors without overpowering the lobster.
- ¼ teaspoon sugar – Helps to mellow out the savory elements.
- ¼ teaspoon sesame oil – A splash of nuttiness that elevates the dish.
- ⅛ teaspoon white pepper – Adds a hint of warmth without being too spicy.
For the Coating and Frying
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch – Creates a crispy texture when frying the lobster.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Aids in achieving a golden crust on the lobster.
- 2 cups neutral oil – Use canola, vegetable, or peanut oil for frying to avoid overpowering flavors.
- 6 slices fresh ginger – Adds aromatic depth; cut them thick to release flavor without burning.
- 3 scallions – The white parts are used for stir-frying; the green parts are for garnish.
For the Yi Mein Noodles
- 12 ounces dried Yi Mein noodles – These springy noodles are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken stock – Keep some stock on hand for the noodle sauce to add moisture.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce – Similar to the lobster sauce, it unifies the flavors in the noodles.
- 2 teaspoons light soy sauce – Adds a gentle salty flavor that complements the lobster.
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce – For a richer color and deeper flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil – Ties the noodles and sauces together.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Season to taste, adjusting based on dietary preferences.
- ⅛ teaspoon sugar – Balances the dish by enhancing the flavors of the sauces.
- 2 scallions – Use the green parts for a fresh garnish.
- 1 clove garlic – Chopped garlic adds aromatic flavor to the noodles.
Get ready to create a dish that’s not just food, but a lavish experience with these Lobster Noodles!
How to Make Lobster Noodles
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Chill the Lobsters: Place the live lobsters in the freezer for 10 minutes to sedate them. This makes it easier for you to dispatch them with a sharp chef’s knife.
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Prepare the Lobster: Carefully cut off the head shell and remove the body. Trim the antennae, discard the gills and innards, and rinse under cold running water to keep it fresh.
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Cut the Lobster: Split the lobster lengthwise from head to tail. Depending on their size, cut the tail into 3 or 4 pieces and don’t forget to split the claws for even frying.
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Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine ¼ cup chicken stock, 2 teaspoons oyster sauce, 1½ teaspoons light soy sauce, ¼ teaspoon sugar, ¼ teaspoon sesame oil, and ⅛ teaspoon white pepper. This savory mixture will elevate your lobster.
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Dredge the Lobster Pieces: Coat the lobster pieces in a blend of 4 tablespoons cornstarch and 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour. This step creates that irresistible crispy texture when fried.
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Heat the Oil: In a wok or medium pot, heat 2 cups of neutral oil to about 350°F (175°C). Shallow-fry the coated lobster pieces until the shells turn a vibrant red, then remove them and drain on a sheet pan.
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Reserve the Oil: Pour the remaining frying oil through a fine mesh strainer into a heat-proof bowl. This reserved oil will bring a delicious flavor to your noodles.
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Pre-cook the Noodles: Bring about 3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add the 12 ounces of dried Yi Mein noodles and pre-cook for 3-4 minutes, then drain and set aside to keep them springy.
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Combine Noodle Sauce Ingredients: For a delightful, rich flavor, in another bowl, mix ¼ cup chicken stock, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 2 teaspoons light soy sauce, 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce, ½ teaspoon sesame oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon sugar.
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Stir-fry the Noodles: Heat the wok until it’s smoking, then add 2 tablespoons of reserved lobster oil. Toss in the white parts of the scallions and chopped garlic. Stir and add your pre-cooked noodles.
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Mix and Cook Noodles: Stir-fry the noodles for 1 minute to get them coated. Finally, pour the prepared noodle sauce over them and stir-fry for another minute, blending all the flavors beautifully.
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Garnish Your Noodles: Stir in the green parts of the scallions, then transfer the seasoned noodles to a serving plate to prepare for the lobster.
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Prepare the Lobster: In a clean wok, add 2 tablespoons of reserved lobster oil and the ginger slices. Fry for 30 seconds to release those beautiful flavors.
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Stir-fry Lobster: Add back the white parts of the scallions and the lobster pieces to the wok. Stir-fry everything together for about 20 seconds to heat through.
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Add the Shaoxing Wine: Carefully pour the Shaoxing wine around the perimeter of the wok, cover, and let cook for 2 minutes. This adds an aromatic touch that is fragrant and comforting.
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Finish and Serve: Uncover, then add the prepared sauce and the green parts of the scallions. Stir-fry everything for another minute until the lobster is glazed with the sauce. Serve the glorious lobster pieces atop the noodles, with the heads placed on one end of the plate for an impressive presentation.
Optional: Garnish with additional scallions for a fresh finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lobster Noodles
- Choose Fresh Lobster: Always pick the freshest lobsters available; fresh seafood leads to the best flavor and texture in your Lobster Noodles.
- Perfect Frying Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) to achieve that crispy coating without drying out the meat. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook Yi Mein noodles just until they’re slightly underdone; they will continue to cook when tossed in the wok with the sauce.
- Season as You Go: Taste and adjust the seasoning in the lobster sauce and noodle sauce to ensure a balanced flavor profile. Don’t forget that salt can enhance the dish!
- Use Reserved Lobster Oil: The delicious oil left over from frying can be used to stir-fry the noodles, adding an extra layer of lobster flavor that elevates your meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Lobster Noodles are ideal for those busy home cooks looking to save precious time during the week! You can prepare the lobster and sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in separate airtight containers. The lobster should be cooked and then tossed with the sauce right before serving to ensure it retains its delightful flavor and tenderness. For the Yi Mein noodles, pre-cook and drain them, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To finish, reheat the noodles in a hot wok with a touch of reserved lobster oil, then stir in the lobster and sauce mixture until everything is warmed through. This way, you can enjoy a gourmet meal at home without the fuss!
Lobster Noodles Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Seafood Medley: Swap out the lobster for a mix of shrimp and scallops for a delightful twist on textures and flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the lobsters with sautéed mushrooms and tofu for a plant-based indulgence that’s equally satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced red chilies or a splash of chili oil to the sauce for an exciting burst of heat that livens up every bite.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate zest from a lime or orange into the noodle sauce to introduce a refreshing and vibrant flavor contrast.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free noodles, such as rice noodles or even zucchini noodles, to create a gluten-free version that’s equally enjoyable.
- Garlic Lovers: Boost the garlic flavor by adding more cloves or using roasted garlic for a sweeter, more aromatic depth.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving for added freshness and a beautiful fragrance.
- Rich Broth: Replace chicken stock with a seafood broth for a deeper, more robust flavor that enhances the lobster’s sweetness.
Let your culinary imagination run free—each variation brings a unique spin to this luxurious dish!
How to Store and Freeze Lobster Noodles
Fridge: Store leftover Lobster Noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the lobster and noodle portions separately for up to 2 months. This will preserve texture and taste.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the lobster and noodles in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a wok over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to steam and rejuvenate the dish.
What to Serve with Lobster with Yi Mein Noodles?
Prepare to elevate your mealtime experience with these delightful accompaniments that will enhance your lavish lobster dish!
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Crispy Asian Greens: These stir-fried greens, such as bok choy or Chinese broccoli, add a fresh crunch to your meal, balancing the rich flavors of your lobster.
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Garlic Toasts: Crunchy, garlic-infused bread will provide a satisfying texture, perfect for soaking up the savory lobster juices and noodle sauce.
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Chilled Szechuan Shrimp Salad: This light and zesty salad is a refreshing contrast, offering a seafood complement without overpowering your main dish.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: Crisp and cool, this salad brings a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the warm, savory lobster noodles, making every bite a delight.
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Classic Egg Drop Soup: A steaming bowl of egg drop soup can act as a cozy starter, enhancing the overall experience with its soothing comfort before the luxurious noodles.
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Lychee Martini: For a decadent drink pairing, a lychee martini adds a touch of sweetness and sophistication, complementing the oceanic flavors beautifully.
Imagine serving these wonderful sides alongside your Lobster Noodles, creating an unforgettable dining experience that delights the senses and warms the heart!
Lobster with Yi Mein Noodles Recipe FAQs
What kind of lobsters should I use for Lobster Noodles?
Absolutely! Aim for live lobsters weighing between 1¼ to 1½ pounds each. This size provides the best meat-to-shell ratio, ensuring you’ll get tender, flavorful lobster meat for your dish.
How should I store leftover Lobster Noodles?
Very important! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain the dish’s freshness and flavor. If you find yourself with more than you can eat, consider freezing components separately!
Can I freeze Lobster Noodles?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the lobster and noodle portions separately. Wrap the lobster tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer-safe bag and do the same with the noodles. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll preserve their textures and flavors.
What’s the best way to reheat Lobster Noodles?
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw both the lobster and noodles in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat them in a wok over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water. This will help steam and rejuvenate the dish, making it as delicious as the first time!
How do I know if my lobsters are fresh?
Fresh lobsters should feel heavy for their size and have a clean, briny smell. Avoid any that have a strong fishy odor, and check for cracked shells or dark spots all over, as those can indicate old seafood.
Any dietary considerations for Lobster Noodles?
If you’re cooking for someone with seafood allergies, I recommend avoiding lobster altogether and considering alternatives like grilled chicken or tofu! Just be sure to adjust the cooking and seasoning times accordingly to maintain the dish’s flavor profile.
Savor Luxurious Lobster Noodles for a Homemade Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chill the Lobsters: Place the live lobsters in the freezer for 10 minutes to sedate them.
- Prepare the Lobster: Cut off the head shell and remove the body. Trim antennae, discard gills and innards, rinse.
- Cut the Lobster: Split the lobster lengthwise from head to tail. Cut the tail into 3 or 4 pieces and split claws.
- Mix the Sauce: Combine chicken stock, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and white pepper.
- Dredge the Lobster Pieces: Coat in cornstarch and flour mixture.
- Heat the Oil: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and shallow-fry lobster pieces until shells turn vibrant red.
- Reserve the Oil: Strain the remaining oil into a heat-proof bowl.
- Pre-cook the Noodles: Boil water, add Yi Mein noodles, and pre-cook for 3-4 minutes. Drain.
- Combine Noodle Sauce Ingredients: Mix chicken stock, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and sugar.
- Stir-fry the Noodles: Heat wok, add reserved lobster oil, scallions, and garlic. Add pre-cooked noodles.
- Mix and Cook Noodles: Stir-fry noodles for 1 minute, then add noodle sauce and stir-fry for another minute.
- Garnish Your Noodles: Stir in green scallions, then transfer to serving plate.
- Prepare the Lobster in Wok: Heat reserved lobster oil and fry ginger for 30 seconds.
- Stir-fry Lobster: Add scallions and lobster pieces, stir-fry for about 20 seconds.
- Add Shaoxing Wine: Pour wine, cover and cook for 2 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Add sauce and scallions; stir-fry until lobster is glazed. Serve lobster atop noodles.