How do you cut lobster tail shells?

Tools:

* Chef's knife: A sharp knife is essential for a clean cut.

* Kitchen shears: These can help with cutting through the tough shell.

* Lobster cracker: This specialized tool makes cracking the shell easier, but it's not strictly necessary.

Steps:

1. Prepare the Lobster: Thaw the lobster tail if frozen.

2. Position the Tail: Place the lobster tail on a cutting board, flat side down.

3. Cut the Shell:

* Chef's knife: Carefully slice down the center of the shell, from the tail end to the head. You may need to rock the knife slightly to cut through the tougher parts.

* Kitchen shears: If using shears, open the shell along the seam, then cut down the center from the tail to the head.

4. Remove the Meat: Gently pry open the shell using the knife or shears, or use a lobster cracker to crack the shell.

5. Cut the Meat: If desired, slice the lobster meat into smaller pieces for easier eating.

Tips:

* Keep the knife angled: This helps prevent slipping and ensures a clean cut.

* Use a sawing motion: If you're using a knife, move it back and forth to saw through the shell.

* Don't over-crack: If using a lobster cracker, be careful not to crush the meat.

* Don't throw away the shell: You can save the shell for lobster bisque or stock.

Note: This method is for cooked lobster tails. If you're cooking lobster tails from raw, it's best to have a professional chef prepare them.