Slipper lobsters, also known as a decadent delight, offer a distinctive flavor and can be prepared in an array of nutritious dishes. If you’re new to this lobster variety, join us to explore its intricacies, from where to buy it to crafting delectable dishes.
1 Unveiling the Slipper Lobsters
Slipper lobsters, or spiny lobsters, are members of the decapod crustaceans family, inhabiting warm seas and oceans. Their distinctive feature is their large antennae, resembling discs positioned before their heads.
Slipper lobsters, the spiny variety
Slipper lobsters are commonly found in shallow waters with thriving coral reefs. In Vietnam, they’re prevalent in central coastal regions, including Binh Dinh, Nha Trang, and Phan Thiet.
These lobsters typically weigh between 0.5-1.2 kg, with some individuals reaching 1.5-2 kg. Their meat is a delectable treat, offering a sweet, chewy, and tasty experience with high nutritional value. Per 100g, it packs 95 calories, 121mg of , 185g of , 0.8g of , 39mg of , 49mg of , and 45mg of .
There are three varieties: the red, white, and black slipper lobsters. The red and white types are particularly prized in the market due to their exceptional flavor and texture.
The trio of slipper lobster varieties
2 Pricing and Procurement of Slipper Lobsters
How Much Do They Cost?
Slipper lobsters are considered a luxurious seafood due to their exquisite taste and the challenge of catching them. Prices vary based on type, size, and whether they are live, stunned, or frozen, with seasonal fluctuations. On average:
- Live Slipper Lobsters: White varieties range from 650,000- 800,000 VND/kg, while red lobsters command 1,000,000 – 1,700,000 VND/kg.
- Frozen Slipper Lobsters: 500,000 VND/kg
- Stunned Slipper Lobsters: 450,000 VND/kg
Slipper lobsters, a luxurious treat
Where Can I Buy Them?
You can procure slipper lobsters from specialized seafood shops or fresh seafood markets. Alternatively, when visiting Vietnam’s central coastal regions, such as Binh Dinh, Nha Trang, or Phan Thiet, you can purchase them directly from the source.
Specialized seafood shops for slipper lobsters
Here are some recommended shops in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Hai San Hoang Gia (Go Vap): 12 Nguyen Hong, Ward 1, Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hai San Tuoi Song Thang Long: 14/23A Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Ward 26, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hai San Ong Giau: 28 Duong So 9, Ward 5, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
- Vua Hai San Xanh: 403 No Trang Long, Ward 13, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
3 Delicious Recipes to Try
Slipper lobsters boast white, sweet, and chewy meat, making them versatile for various cooking methods. Here are some mouthwatering recipes to tantalize your taste buds:
Garlic Butter Slipper Lobsters
A favorite among many, garlic butter slipper lobsters exude an irresistible aroma. The combination of firm, sweet lobster meat with the fragrance of garlic and butter is simply divine.
Garlic butter slipper lobsters, a mouthwatering treat
Cheesy Baked Slipper Lobsters
For cheese and seafood enthusiasts, this dish is a dream come true. The lobsters are halved, marinated, and then topped with cheese before being baked to perfection.
Cheesy baked slipper lobsters, a decadent creation
Lemongrass Steamed Slipper Lobsters
Lemongrass and seafood are a match made in heaven, and slipper lobsters are no exception. Steam them with lemongrass stalks for a delightful fragrance, best enjoyed with .
Lemongrass steamed slipper lobsters, a fragrant delight
Salt and Pepper Slipper Lobsters
The salt in this dish enhances the natural sweetness of the meat, making it irresistible. Enjoy it with a side of or for an even more indulgent experience.
Salt and pepper slipper lobsters, a savory sensation
There you have it! We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the wonders of slipper lobsters, from their unique flavor to the delicious recipes you can create.