Lobster sauce

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Lobster sauce is a traditional sauce used in American Chinese cuisine. Despite its name, lobster sauce does not always contain lobster. Instead, the sauce is known for being served with lobster dishes or using the broth made from simmering lobster shells. Lobster sauce is characterized by its thick, flavorful base, which is white or creamy in color, and is a popular accompaniment to seafood and poultry dishes in Chinese-American restaurants.

Ingredients and Preparation

The primary ingredients of lobster sauce include ground pork, soy sauce, chicken broth, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Cornstarch is often used as a thickening agent to give the sauce its signature texture. In some variations, fermented black beans are added to enhance the flavor. The sauce may also contain egg whites, which are slowly stirred into the simmering sauce to create silky strands or curds.

To prepare lobster sauce, ground pork is usually browned in a pan and then simmered with garlic, ginger, and the fermented black beans if used. Chicken broth is added to the mixture, and the sauce is thickened with a cornstarch slurry. Seasonings, including soy sauce and sometimes oyster sauce, are mixed in to taste. Finally, beaten egg whites are poured into the sauce while stirring gently to form egg ribbons or curds. The sauce is typically served hot, often over steamed or stir-fried dishes.

Culinary Uses

Lobster sauce is most commonly served with shrimp, where it is known as shrimp with lobster sauce. This dish is a staple in American Chinese cuisine and features shrimp cooked and served in the savory sauce. However, lobster sauce can accompany a variety of other proteins, including chicken, tofu, and actual lobster meat. It is also used as a gravy for vegetables and noodles.

Cultural Significance

The name "lobster sauce" is somewhat misleading, as the sauce itself does not necessarily include lobster as an ingredient. The name likely originated from the sauce's association with traditional Chinese lobster dishes, where it was used as a flavorful accompaniment. In American Chinese cuisine, the adaptation of this sauce has become a unique and beloved dish, showcasing the fusion of Chinese cooking techniques with American tastes and ingredient availability.

See Also

• American Chinese cuisine
• Soy sauce
• Ginger
• Garlic