Lobster Dien Bien
Lobster Dien Bien is a flavorful Vietnamese-inspired dish featuring tender lobster, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a rich, savory experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the lobster into small pieces.
- Season the lobster with 1/2 teaspoon pepper and 1/3 teaspoon salt.
- Brown 4 ounces of butter in a pan and partly brown the lobster in the butter.
- Chop the green onions, green pepper, and fresh mushrooms and add them to the lobster.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes.
- Add the rice and stir continuously until the rice becomes loose.
- Add chopped tomatoes and chicken consomme, then stir and cover.
- Cook for about 25 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Brown the remaining 2 ounces of butter, add tarragon and pepper, and pour over the lobster mixture.
- Mix well and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting the butter with olive oil or adding a splash of white wine while browning the lobster. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; try thyme or dill if tarragon isn't available. Ensure the lobster is fully cooked but not overdone to maintain its tenderness. Using leftover rice can save time and enhance the dish's texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lobster Dien Bien over a bed of fluffy Uncle Ben rice for a delightful presentation. Garnish with extra chopped green onions and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables, and it can be complemented by a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken consomme or water to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the lobster meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lobster Dien Bien contains roughly 528 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen lobster for this recipe?
Yes, frozen lobster can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before cooking. This will help achieve a better texture and flavor in the final dish.
What can I substitute for chicken consomme?
If you don't have chicken consomme, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly less rich, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked?
Lobster is fully cooked when its flesh turns opaque and firm. Additionally, it should have a bright red color once cooked. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 7-8 minutes per pound.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).