They Call It “Lobstah” In Maine

Everywhere you go in Maine, it is a sure bet that lobster will be listed on the menu at least 3 times.  Sometimes, you can even see a sign at the local pharmacy for lobster rolls.  No kidding!  The landscape is covered with lobster traps and buoys, and the slow noise of the lobster boat engines is always humming.

I set out yesterday to do some lobster exploring and to check out what lobster fishing was all about.

I visited Atlantic Edge and met Ed.

He’s been in the “lobstah” business since he was a pup.  He was happy to show me around and share some fun tidbits about lobsters.

Of course, the first question I asked him – “is it really true that lobsters pee out of their eyeballs?”  Not the most intelligent question, but I had to ask none the less.

This is true.  Like crabs, lobsters have no central nervous system.  Because of this, they were once called the insects of the ocean.  Kinda gross, but whatevs.  Now they’re considered a delicacy.  Go figure.

Here’s another little fact – it takes 7 years for a lobster to grow one pound.

I also asked why lobstermen go out so early in the morning.  Ed said it is mainly because of the winds.  The wind picks up in the afternoon, so they like to have their collecting done before the winds get heavy.  Some lobstermen go out as early as 3 a.m.  Waayyyy too early for me.

Being that I wanted to make Lobster Bisque, I got 2 lobsters and brought them back to the house.  Most floats around here have a little trap door that has a lobster cage attached.  I put my lobsters in this handy dandy cage until I was ready to cook.

I experimented with my Lobster Bisque recipe last night, and came up with this delicious one.  It is a rich bisque with deep flavor.  Divine.  Click here for the recipe.

I am so enjoying my Maine adventures.  It’s beautiful country up here, with friendly folk and delicious seafood.  Especially the “lobstah.”