How to Cut a Lobster Tail

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If you want to know how to cut a lobster tail, then read on. Today, I'm showing you the best way to remove the shell from a lobster tail while leaving all that tender meat intact.

Collage of kitchen shears cutting the bottom shell of a lobster tail at top and the top of a lobster shell at bottom

Removing a shell from a lobster tail might seem daunting, but if you follow this easy guide, you'll be a pro in no time. It's actually very simple once you get the hang of it.

How to Cut a Lobster Tail

I struggled with removing a lobster tail from its shell for the longest time. It wasn't until a friend of mine shared this super easy method that I was finally able to start removing lobster from the shell without mangling it.

Ingredients

You only need one ingredient for this.

  • Lobster tail

Instructions

Three easy steps are all it takes to easily remove a lobster tail from its shell.

Step 1: To remove the lobster tail from the shell, use kitchen shears. Cut from the front to back on the belly side of the lobster.

Overhead shot of kitchen shears being used to cut the bottom of lobster tail shell

Step 2: Repeat this on the top side of the lobster.

Kitchen shears being used to cut the top of lobster tail shell

Step 3: Gently pull the shell off the tail.

Equipment

You'll only need two pieces of equipment to remove the shells from lobster tails.

  • Kitchen shears
  • Plate or cutting board

Substitutions

Sharp Knife: You CAN use a sharp knife to remove the shells, but shears are safer.

Options

Want to know what to do after you learn how to cut a lobster tail? Here are some suggestions.

Baked: Remove the tail partially from the shell, butterfly it, and bake it.

Fry: Remove the tail completely, bread it, and fry it.

Tips:

  • Be sure that you slide the shears gently underneath the shell and not into the meat.
  • Always cut away from your hand when removing the tails.
  • Sharp kitchen shears are the best way to go with this recipe. They're easier to use and safer than a knife.

More How-To Recipes

FAQ

Do you always remove the shell of a lobster tail before cooking?

No. In fact, in many cases, leaving the shell on is better because it adds flavor and protects the meat from high temperatures.

Why do you remove lobster tail shell before cooking?

Some recipes don't require the shell to be left on. Butterfly tails are partially removed, while fried lobster tail requires the shell to be completely removed.

Why is the lobster meat sticking to the shell?

Freezing lobster tails can cause the meat to stick to the shell. Fresh lobster tail meat will sometimes stick if the lobster recently molted.

Closeup shot of kitchen shears being used to cut the bottom of a lobster tail

How to Cut a Lobster Tail

Ready to learn how to cut a lobster tail? Then print the recipe card below.

Yield: 1

How to Cut a Lobster Tail

How to Cut a Lobster Tail

If you want to know how to cut a lobster tail, then you've come to the right place. This simple tutorial will teach you how to do it easily. #inspirationalmomma #howtocutalobstertail #cuttingalobstertail #cutalobstertail #lobstertail

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lobster tail

Instructions

  1. To remove the lobster tail from the shell, use kitchen shears. Cut from the front to back on the belly side of the lobster. 
  2. Repeat this on the top side of the lobster. 
  3. Gently pull the shell off the tail. 

Nutrition Information

Yield

1

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 122Total Fat 2gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 77mgSodium 193mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 22g

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