As culinary trends ebb and flow, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of options when it comes to meal choices. From flashy online recipes to trendy restaurant menus, the possibilities seem endless. To simplify your decision and indulge in a sustainable, fresh, and versatile option, look no further than lobster – a timeless favorite. Katie and Thom Werner, the proud owners of Island Lobster Co. in Peaks Island, Maine, are here to guide you through the world of lobster enjoyment. Thom, a seasoned commercial fisherman, supplies the restaurant with the majority of its lobster, connecting you directly to the source.
Hailing from a lineage of generational fishing families, the Werners are well-acquainted with the iconic Maine Lobster fishery. With Thom’s fishing experience dating back to the age of 6, their expertise is unmatched. They understand that for home cooks, lobster can be a tad intimidating. Yet, as connoisseurs of the product, they assure us that lobster is both approachable and delectable, fostering a sense of community along the coast.
Katie emphasizes, “Lobsters are sustainably harvested and handled with the utmost care by the fishery.” She underscores the significance of knowing the origin of your food, highlighting that consuming local lobster brings a sense of fulfillment while supporting families like theirs.
For those seeking a classic lobster experience, the Werners recommend a tried-and-true method. Thom suggests, “Steamed with a side of melted butter is an unbeatable choice.” The marriage of fresh lobster’s succulent flavors with a touch of salty butter is a match made in culinary heaven.
If you’re looking to add a contemporary spin to your lobster adventure, Katie shares her favorite recipe: the BLT Lobster Roll from Island Lobster Co. Imagine crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and tender lobster nestled within a buttery roll – a symphony of savory and sweet that celebrates sustainable trap-to-table cuisine.
Irrespective of your chosen recipe, the Werner family hopes that everyone can partake in relishing this cornerstone of their heritage. Thom nostalgically remarks, “Maine Lobster is a taste of home to me.” He reminisces about sharing lobster with loved ones and the pleasure of passing down this legacy to his children and the community they serve at their restaurant. He hopes that this iconic industry can be a source of celebration for everyone, whether they’re in Maine or miles away.
To delve deeper into the Werners’ story, explore their recipes, and discover ways to support this industry, visit lobsterfrommaine.com.
BLT Lobster Roll Recipe
Recipe courtesy of the Werner family of Island Lobster Co. on behalf of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative
Yield: 1 roll
Ingredients:
- 3 slices bacon
- 1/4 pound fresh lobster meat (or meat from a 1-pound lobster)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 brioche bun, halved
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 3 tomato slices
- 1 large leaf romaine lettuce or butter lettuce
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange bacon slices on top. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until desired crispiness.
- In a large pot, bring 2 inches of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the lobster and steam for 12 minutes. Halfway through, carefully lift the lid and shift the lobster to ensure even cooking.
- Break down the lobster and remove the meat from the shell, yielding about 4 ounces of cooked meat. Chop the meat into bite-size pieces.
- In a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, melt the butter to coat the pan.
- Place both halves of the brioche bun cut-side down on the pan and cook for about 30 seconds until golden. Remove the buns from the pan and set aside.
- In a bowl, toss the chopped lobster meat with mayonnaise and set aside.
- Assemble the cooked bacon, tomato slices, lettuce, and lobster mixture on the toasted bun.
Enjoy your delectable BLT Lobster Roll!