Interested in the calorie intake of 1 oz of steamed or boiled lobster without the shell? Well, good news is that it contains only 27 calories which makes it a healthy option to add to your diet.

In addition to its low calorie count, lobster is a great source of protein, minerals, and vitamins essential for your body. Read on to find out more about the nutritional benefits and preparation of lobster.

This article will also dive into topics such as the sustainability of lobster fishing, the history of lobster as a culinary dish, and offer a healthy lobster dip recipe to try out for your next gathering.

Nutritional Information

As mentioned earlier, 1 Oz of steamed or boiled lobster contains 27 calories which makes it a low-calorie food option. In addition to this, it is packed with nutrients like protein, vitamin B12, copper, selenium, and zinc that are essential for your body. The high protein content in lobster makes it a great choice for muscle development and repair. Additionally, vitamin B12 supports the function of your nervous system, while copper helps the body produce red blood cells. Selenium and zinc, on the other hand, are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from harmful environmental toxins and promote healthy immune system function.

Benefits of Eating Steamed Lobster

Steaming lobster has been found to be one of the healthiest options if you want full health benefits. As lobsters are cooked in their own juices, they retain their natural flavors and moisture. Unlike boiling, steaming does not require the lobster to be boiled in water that may remove some of its natural nutrients. In addition to the nutritional benefits mentioned before, lobster is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids that boost heart health and reduce inflammation. Moreover, its high mineral content supports healthy bone development, which is especially important for women and older adults. Another interesting benefit of consuming lobster is its potential effect on brain function. Research suggests that eating foods high in omega-3s, like lobster, may help improve cognitive function and prevent mental decline.

How to Prepare Steamed or Boiled Lobster

Preparing lobster requires a bit of effort, but it is well worth it in terms of flavor and nutrition. To steam lobster, you will need a large pot with a steamer basket and water. Bring the water to a boil, insert the steamer basket, and add the lobsters. Cover the pot and let steam for 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the lobsters from the pot and let them cool down before removing the meat from the shell. To boil lobster, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the lobsters and boil for about 10-12 minutes or until the shell turns bright red. Once done, remove the lobsters from the pot and let them cool down before removing the meat from the shell. Once you have extracted the meat, it can be used in a variety of dishes like lobster rolls, stews, or chowders.

Steamed Lobster vs. Boiled Lobster: Which is Better?

Both steaming and boiling are great options for cooking lobster, and the choice largely depends on personal preference. Steaming tends to be healthier as it preserves more of the natural flavors and nutrients in the lobster. Moreover, it prevents the meat from becoming tough, rubbery, or stringy. On the other hand, boiling lobster offers a more intense flavor and aroma, as it allows the lobster to absorb more of the added spices and herbs. It can also be faster than steaming, making it an ideal option if you're in a hurry. Ultimately, the choice between steamed and boiled lobster depends on your taste buds and the dish you plan to prepare.

Healthy Lobster Dip Recipe

Looking for a healthy way to enjoy the flavor of lobster? Try out this delicious lobster dip recipe that's a perfect match for crackers, pita chips, or vegetable sticks. Ingredients: - 1 cup cooked and shredded lobster meat, 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup light mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, salt and pepper to taste. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Serve chilled garnished with chives.

The History of Lobster as a Food

Lobster has a rich history as a culinary delicacy that dates back to ancient times. In fact, Native Americans used lobster as fertilizer and bait, while Europeans considered it to be a food for the poor and prisoners. It wasn't until the 19th century that lobster became popular with the upper class when trains made it possible to transport fresh lobsters to major cities. Since then, lobster has continued to be a symbol of luxury and sophistication, often featured in high-end restaurants and special occasions. Moreover, today's lobster industry is a major contributor to many coastal communities in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Tips on Buying Steamed or Boiled Lobster

When buying steamed or boiled lobster, it's important to choose a reputable dealer that sells fresh, quality seafood. The lobsters should have a bright red color and be lively and active. Avoid purchasing lobsters that have a 'fishy' smell, soft or slimy shells, or visible signs of damage. Moreover, it's recommended to buy lobsters that weigh between 1-2 pounds as they are easier to cook and have a more tender meat. Keep in mind that larger lobsters tend to have tougher meat and may require longer cooking times. Finally, make sure to store your lobsters in a cool, damp place until it's time to cook them.

Lobster as a Good Source of Protein

Lobster is a great source of protein, with each ounce containing about 6 grams of it. Protein is important for your body as it helps build and repair tissues, making it essential for muscle development and recovery. Moreover, protein is also known for its role in maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. It can even aid in weight loss as it keeps you feeling fuller for longer periods of time, reducing the need to snack. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or someone who wants to maintain good health, incorporating lobster into your diet can be beneficial.

Lobster: Low in Fat, High in Minerals

Lobster is also low in fat, making it a healthy food option. Most of the fat it contains is the 'good' kind of fat, such as omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Additionally, lobster is high in minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and copper, as well as vitamins like B12 and E that are essential for maintaining good health. Overall, lobster can be a great addition to a healthy, balanced diet.

Sustainability of Lobster Fishing

The sustainability of lobster fishing has been a topic of concern in recent times. While lobster is a popular and lucrative seafood, overfishing can lead to harmful impacts on marine ecosystems and local communities. Fortunately, many countries that rely on lobster fisheries have implemented strict regulations on fishing practices and quotas to ensure that the lobster population remains healthy and viable. Nevertheless, it's important to be mindful of the seafood you consume and opt for sustainably harvested lobster whenever possible to support ethical and eco-friendly fishing practices.