Ginger Scallion Lobster

Ginger Scallion Lobster, a Cantonese-style dish often enjoyed in Chinese restaurants, especially for celebrations. It highlights sweet lobster meat, aromatic ginger, and fragrant scallions, all wok-tossed in a light savory sauce.


Ginger Scallion Lobster

Ingredients

  • 2 live lobsters (about 1 ½ – 2 lbs each), cleaned and chopped into pieces (claws cracked)

  • 4–5 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces (reserve some for garnish)

  • 4-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and julienned

  • 5 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 red chilies (optional), sliced thinly

  • ½ cup cornstarch (for dredging lobster)

  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten (helps cornstarch stick)

  • ½ cup neutral oil (for frying, more if needed)

Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce

  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • ½ tsp sugar

  • ½ cup chicken stock (or water)

  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry, optional for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Lobster:

    • Clean the lobsters and chop into manageable pieces (tail segments, claws cracked, body halved). Pat dry.

    • Lightly coat the lobster pieces with beaten egg white, then dredge in cornstarch until evenly coated.

  2. Fry the Lobster:

    • Heat the oil in a wok over medium-high. Fry the lobster pieces in batches until shells turn bright red and the meat is about 70% cooked. Remove and drain on paper towels.

  3. Make the Aromatics:

    • Pour off excess oil, leaving about 2 tbsp in the wok.

    • Add the ginger, garlic, and chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

    • Toss in the scallions and stir briefly.

  4. Add the Lobster Back:

    • Return the fried lobster to the wok.

    • Pour in the sauce mixture (soy, oyster, wine, sesame oil, sugar, and chicken stock). Stir well to coat.

  5. Thicken (Optional):

    • If you prefer a thicker glaze, drizzle in the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce clings to the lobster.

  6. Finish & Serve:

    • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

    • Garnish with extra fresh scallions.

    • Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or noodles.

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