Drunken Lobster Tail Skewers

For the Skewers:

• 4 lobster tails, halved lengthwise
• 1 bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes)

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Kitchen Equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan
• Basting brush
• Tongs
• Knife and cutting board

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Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beer, olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, honey or brown sugar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Lobster

1. Add Lobster Tails: Place the halved lobster tails in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the lobster, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Marinate: Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the lobster to absorb the flavors. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
2. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated lobster tails, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for an attractive presentation.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

1. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the lobster is opaque and cooked through. Brush with additional marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
2. Check Doneness: Lobster is done when its internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), and it is firm to the touch.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
2. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the Drunken Lobster Tail Skewers with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as garlic butter or a spicy aioli.

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Tips and Tricks:

1. Selecting Lobster Tails: Look for fresh or thawed lobster tails that are firm and have a pleasant ocean scent. Frozen tails are also acceptable; just ensure they are completely thawed before marinating.
2. Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to experiment with different marinades by adding herbs like fresh parsley or basil, or using different types of citrus juices for a unique flavor.
3. Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, these skewers can also be cooked in a grill pan on the stovetop or baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Pairing Ideas: These skewers pair wonderfully with grilled corn, a fresh garden salad, or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the lobster.

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Storing Leftovers:

Leftover Drunken Lobster Tail Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the lobster rubbery.

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