Oh my goodness, get ready for a delectable treat that I am just bursting to share with you – Beer Battered Lobster Lollipops! 🎉 Now, before you roll your eyes thinking this sounds too fancy or complicated, let me tell you, it’s really not! In fact, this recipe holds a special place in my heart and on my dinner table.
I remember the very first time I made these little gems for my friends. I thought, “What can I whip up that’s both fun and crazy delicious?” When I popped these beauties into the oil and watched them sizzle to golden perfection, my friends gathered like moths to a flame, eager to sample these lovely lollipops. The laughter, the crunchy bites, and the flavorful dipping sauce made for one unforgettable evening. Now, every gathering calls for these lobster lollipops – they’re always a showstopper!
What’s in Beer Battered Lobster Lollipops?
Let’s dive into the ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouth-watering morsels:
Lobster Tails: You can use either 2 large or 4 small tails. I love the sweet, succulent taste of lobster, and these tails will give you those juicy bites that we all crave.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of our batter. I use a good quality brand (if I can find it) for that perfect crunch!
Beer: Lager or pale ale works wonders here! I usually opt for a local brew to really elevate the flavor. It gives the batter its signature crispy coating.
Baking Powder: This little ingredient is a game-changer, adding a lightness to our batter that makes it oh-so-delicious.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: The duo brings a lovely warmth and flavor to the lobsters. They’re like the power couple of seasonings!
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, but really, who doesn’t have these on hand?
Oil for Frying: Vegetable or canola oil – whatever is in your pantry will work fine, just make sure to get that oil hot enough for easy frying.
Wooden Skewers: These are our lollipop handles! Don’t forget to soak them if you’re grilling to avoid burning.
Fresh Parsley or Kale: Optional garnish but hey, we eat first with our eyes, right?
Dipping Sauce: A simple mix of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper that’s the perfect creamy counterpart to these crispy bites.
Is Beer Battered Lobster Lollipops Good for You?
Let’s be real – these delicious morsels aren’t the everyday healthy snack, but they do have some redeeming qualities!
Lobster: It’s a great source of protein and low in calories. Packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, it can be a nutritious option when enjoyed in moderation.
Batter & Frying: While the batter and frying add extra calories, you can always adjust the seasoning in the batter or experiment with alternative frying methods (like air frying if you’re feeling adventurous).
So, let’s keep in mind that enjoying these lollipops as an occasional treat can be a delicious way to indulge. Just don’t go overboard with the oil or the dipping sauce!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for approximately 4 servings:
– 2 large lobster tails or 4 small lobster tails
– 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
– 1 cup beer (lager or pale ale)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
– Wooden skewers (for lollipops)
– Optional: Fresh parsley or kale for garnish
**Dipping Sauce:**
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Beer Battered Lobster Lollipops?
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let’s do this!
1. **Prepare the Lobster:** If you’re working with whole lobster tails, slice them in half lengthwise and carefully extract the meat. Chop the lobster into bite-sized pieces and skewer each piece with a wooden stick like a lollipop.
2. **Make the Batter:** In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, beer, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until you have a smooth batter that’s thick enough to cling to the lobster.
3. **Heat the Oil:** In a pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C). Trust me, that’s the magic number for crispy fries!
4. **Dust the Lobster:** Before dipping, give those lobster lollipops a gentle toss in a bit of extra flour to help the batter stick better.
5. **Coat and Fry:** Dip each lobster lollipop into your batter, letting the excess drip off. Carefully place them in the hot oil, frying in small batches for about 3-5 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on the oil so it doesn’t cool down too much!
6. **Drain and Cool:** Once they’re beautifully golden, remove the lollipops and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to catch any stray oil.
7. **Prepare the Dipping Sauce:** In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
8. **Serve:** Arrange your fabulous lobster lollipops on a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley or kale, and don’t forget the dipping sauce on the side!
A Splash of Flavor Suggestions
Oh, the fun doesn’t stop here! You can get all sorts of creative. Want a spicy kick? Toss in some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce right into the batter. For a twist on the dipping sauce, maybe add a spoonful of horseradish or even some chopped herbs like dill or chives. Imagine that creamy, zesty goodness with a hint of heat!
And remember to serve these immediately for that out-of-the-oil warmth and crunch. You might want to set up a little dipping station to let everyone indulge at their own pace.
I can’t wait for you to try these Beer Battered Lobster Lollipops. Seriously, they’re so much fun to make and even more delightful to eat! I’d love to hear how yours turn out—feel free to share your tips or any variations you come up with! Happy cooking!