The steaming time for lobster tails depends primarily on their size. Here is a general guide based on the weight of individual lobster tails:
- 4-5 oz lobster tails: 3-5 minutes
- 6-7 oz lobster tails: 6-8 minutes
- 8-10 oz lobster tails: 8-10 minutes
- 12-14 oz lobster tails: 9-10 minutes
- 16-20 oz lobster tails: 10-12 minutes
- 20-24 oz lobster tails: 12-13 minutes
Start timing once the water returns to a boil after placing the tails in the steamer
. To check if the lobster tails are done, look for bright red shells and opaque white meat. An internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C) at the thickest part of the tail also indicates doneness
. For smaller tails around 4 oz, steaming for about 6-8 minutes is typical, while larger tails (8 oz) may take 10-12 minutes
. In summary, steaming lobster tails usually takes between 3 to 13 minutes depending on size, with most common sizes around 6-10 minutes. Always ensure the tails are fully cooked by visual cues or temperature checks before serving.
