astakos plaki lobster in tomato sauce with saffron rice rice
Milan Braskett
Ingredients
- **Astakos Plaki Ingredients**:
- Fresh Lobster Tail, cut into chunks
- Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- Red Onion, sliced
- Garlic Cloves, minced
- Olive Oil
- Kalamata Olives, pitted and halved (optional)
- Bell Peppers, chopped
- Saffron Threads, soaked in warm water
- Fresh Basil Leaves
- Salt & Pepper, to taste
- Oregano, dried or fresh
- **Saffron Rice Ingredients**:
- Arborio Rice
- Chicken Stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option)
- Saffron Threads, soaked in warm milk
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Chopped Fresh Parsley
- Olive Oil
- Salt & Pepper, to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Grated Lemon Zest
*SEO Keywords: Astakos Plaki recipe, Greek lobster dish, tomato sauce with saffron rice, saffron rice recipe, seafood and rice, Mediterranean cuisine, lobster tail, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, garlic, bell peppers, Greek cooking, traditional Greek dishes, saffron threads, arborio rice, chicken stock, Parmesan cheese, parsley, olive oil, black pepper, lemon zest*
Steps
### How to Make Astakos Plaki Lobster in Tomato Sauce with Saffron Rice: A Delicious Greek Delicacy
#### Introduction
Astakos Plaki is a traditional Greek dish that features grilled lobster served over saffron rice. This recipe combines the rich, sweet flavor of fresh lobster with the aromatic and flavorful saffron rice, making it an exceptional feast. Follow these detailed steps to create this exquisite meal.
#### Ingredients
- 2 large lobsters (about 1 pound each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 1 onion, finely sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
#### Cooking Steps
##### Step 1: Prepare the Lobsters
1. **Clean the Lobsters**: Rinse the lobsters under cold water and carefully remove the legs and claws.
2. **Grill the Lobsters**: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the lobster shells lightly with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Place them on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until slightly charred and just cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. **Prepare the Lobster Shells**: Once cooled, carefully remove the meat from the shells. Reserve the shells and any remaining meat.
##### Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce
1. **Sauté Aromatics**: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until soft and translucent.
2. **Add Garlic and Tomatoes**: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped tomatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes slightly thick and fragrant.
##### Step 3: Prepare the Saffron Rice
1. **Rinse the Rice**: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. **Cook the Rice**: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with chicken broth, saffron threads, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. **Fluff the Rice**: Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork.
##### Step 4: Assemble the Dish
1. **Layer the Ingredients**: In a large oven-safe baking dish, layer half of the saffron rice at the bottom, followed by the lobster meat (reserve some for garnish), then top with the tomato sauce.
2. **Bake**: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until the rice is heated through.
##### Step 5: Finish and Serve
1. **Garnish and Serve**: Sprinkle the remaining reserved lobster meat on top, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.
#### SEO Tips
- Use keywords like "astakos plaki," "Greek cuisine," "lobster in tomato sauce," and "saffron rice" throughout your recipe to improve search engine optimization.
- Include a list of ingredients at the beginning for quick reference.
- Provide cooking times and temperatures for clarity.
- Add descriptive phrases and sensory details to make the recipe more engaging.
Enjoy this delightful and aromatic Astakos Plaki Lobster in Tomato Sauce with Saffron Rice, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings!