Ingredients

1 lb cooked lobster meat , including 4 whole claws if available
9 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 spring onions , including tender green parts , finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme , minced
salt
fresh ground white pepper
1/2 lb white button mushrooms , brushed clean and thinly sliced
1/4 cup brandy
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ( to taste )
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups lobster stock ( you can also use shrimp stock , fish stock , or chicken stock , or prepared low-sodium chicken broth )
1/2 cup half-and-half
1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
2 -3 dashes Tabasco sauce
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Lobster Thermidor is a classic French dish that originated in the late 19th century. It is made with lobster meat cooked in a creamy, cheese sauce and is usually served with rice or potatoes. The dish was named after the play 'Thermidor' by Victorien Sardou, which was popular at the time. The play is set during the French Revolution and 'Thermidor' refers to the month in the French Republican calendar when Robespierre, a key figure in the Revolution, was overthrown. The dish is decadent and luxurious, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner for two.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2.Remove lobster meat from shell and cut into bite-sized chunks.
3.In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of butter. Add spring onions, thyme, salt, and white pepper and cook until onions are soft.
4.Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and the liquid has evaporated.
5.Add brandy and lemon juice and cook until the liquid has evaporated.
6.Sprinkle flour over the top and mix well. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
7.Slowly pour in the lobster stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
8.Reduce heat to low and cook until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly.
9.Add half-and-half, paprika, Tabasco sauce, and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese. Mix well and cook until cheese has melted.
10.Add the lobster meat and mix well.
11.Transfer the lobster mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining parmesan cheese.
12.Melt remaining butter and drizzle over the top of the lobster mixture.
13.Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

PROS

Lobster Thermidor is a luxurious dish perfect for a special occasion.

The richness of the dish is balanced by the bright flavors of lemon, thyme, and brandy.

CONS

Lobster can be expensive and difficult to find.

This dish is high in fat and calories due to the butter, cream, and cheese.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lobster is a good source of protein and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
Thyme has been shown to have antiviral and antibacterial properties and may help boost the immune system.

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