How many ounces of meat is in a 3 lb lobster?

You can't determine the exact ounce amount of meat in a 3 lb lobster just by knowing its weight.

Here's why:

* Variable meat yield: Lobsters have different meat-to-shell ratios. A larger lobster doesn't necessarily mean more meat.

* Cooking method: The cooking method impacts how much meat stays in the shell. Boiling yields more meat than steaming.

* Individual lobster variation: Each lobster is unique. Some may have more meat in the claws, while others have more in the tail.

General Estimates:

A general rule of thumb is that you can expect about 25-30% meat yield from a whole lobster. This means a 3 lb lobster might yield around 7.5 - 9 ounces of meat. However, this is just a rough estimate.

For a better idea, check the lobster's specific information:

* Ask the vendor: Seafood markets often provide estimated meat yields for lobsters they sell.

* Look for pre-cooked lobsters: Some pre-cooked lobsters are sold with their meat already extracted, giving you a more accurate idea of the yield.

Remember, even with estimates, the actual amount of meat can vary. It's always a good idea to order a little extra if you're serving a group!