Preparing Lobster

1. Gather Ingredients and Tools:
   • Fresh lobster (whole or tails)
   • Large pot
   • Salt
   • Butter (for serving)
   • Lemon (for serving)
   • Lobster cracker or nutcracker
2. Cook the Lobster:

   Boiling:

   • Fill and Boil: Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the lobster. Add 2 tablespoons of salt per quart of water. Bring to a rolling boil.
   • Add Lobster: Carefully place the lobster headfirst into the boiling water. Cover and cook for 8-12 minutes, depending on the size.
   • Remove: Use tongs to transfer the lobster to a plate to drain.

   Steaming (Alternative):

   • Prepare Steamer: Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and add a steaming rack. Bring to a boil.
   • Steam Lobster: Place the lobster on the rack, cover, and steam for 10-15 minutes.
   • Remove: Carefully take the lobster out and let it drain.

Eating Lobster

1. Crack the Shell:
   • Use a lobster cracker or a heavy-duty nutcracker to break open the shell. If you’re using your hands, be gentle but firm to avoid making a mess.
2. Extract the Meat:
   • Pull out the meat from the claws, tail, and knuckles. Use a seafood fork or pick for hard-to-reach areas.
3. Prepare for Eating:
   • Butter Sauce: Melt some butter and add optional flavors like garlic or herbs if desired. Pour it into small bowls for dipping.
   • Lemon Wedges: Cut lemon into wedges for a fresh squeeze of juice.

Feel free to adjust the seasonings and cooking times to your preference.