Gourmet Mini Lobster Brioche Bites
Indulge in these Gourmet Mini Lobster Brioche Bites, a sophisticated twist on the classic lobster roll, perfect for any festive occasion. Each mini roll is packed with a luscious lobster filling, enhanced by the fragrant tarragon and zesty lemon, all housed in a rich and buttery brioche or Parker House roll. Ideal for serving at elegant gatherings or as a special treat, one of these substantial bites is enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. With the option to substitute shrimp or lump crab for those who prefer, this recipe is versatile and easily adaptable. As a make-ahead delight, prepare the lobster filling in advance and fill your rolls just before serving for optimal freshness. Recipe adapted from "Best Holiday Hors d'Oeuvres: Best Recipes of 2007" from F&W Magazine, Grace Parisi, December 2007.
12
Servings
150
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lobster meat (or shrimp, or crabmeat)
3/4 lb (coarsely chopped)
Mayonnaise
1/4 cup (divided into two portions)
Mayonnaise
2 tablespoons (for mixing into lobster filling)
Tarragon
1 teaspoon (chopped)
Lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon (finely grated)
Salt
to taste
Black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Crushed red pepper flakes
to taste (optional)
Mini brioche rolls (or mini Parker House rolls)
12 (about 2 1/2 inches each)
Chives
for garnish (snipped)
Instructions
1
In a food processor, add the coarsely chopped lobster and 1/4 cup of mayonnaise. Pulse until the mixture reaches a chunky paste-like consistency.
2
Stir in the chopped tarragon, finely grated lemon zest, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. If desired, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
3
Using a sharp paring knife, carefully cut a 1 1/2-inch round plug from the top of each mini brioche or Parker House roll, leaving a 1/2-inch border all around the edge.
4
Gently hollow out the inside of each roll using a small spoon, creating ample space for the filling.
5
Spoon the prepared lobster mixture into the hollowed rolls, filling them generously.
6
Garnish each filled roll with a sprinkle of snipped chives for a touch of color and flavor.
7
Serve immediately, or refrigerate the filled rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 hours.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
7.5g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gourmet Mini Lobster Brioche Bites?
They are a sophisticated appetizer consisting of a creamy lobster filling with tarragon and lemon served inside hollowed mini brioche rolls.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 12 servings.
Can I use seafood other than lobster?
Yes, you can easily substitute the lobster meat with shrimp or lump crabmeat.
What kind of rolls are best for this recipe?
Mini brioche rolls or mini Parker House rolls are recommended for their buttery flavor and soft texture.
How is the lobster filling prepared?
The lobster is coarsely chopped and pulsed in a food processor with mayonnaise to create a chunky paste, then mixed with seasonings.
What herbs are used in the filling?
Freshly chopped tarragon is mixed into the filling, and snipped chives are used as a garnish.
Is there a spicy version of these lobster bites?
You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling if you prefer a hint of heat.
How do I prepare the rolls for the filling?
Cut a 1.5-inch round plug from the top of each roll and hollow out the center with a small spoon.
Can I make these lobster bites in advance?
You can prepare the lobster filling ahead of time and store it separately, then fill the rolls just before serving.
How long can filled rolls be refrigerated?
Filled rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 hours.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
Each lobster bite contains 7.5 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in each bite?
There are 5 grams of protein per serving.
What size should the brioche rolls be?
The rolls should be approximately 2.5 inches each.
Is a food processor necessary for this recipe?
A food processor is used to pulse the lobster and mayonnaise into the correct chunky paste consistency.
Who originally created this recipe?
The recipe was adapted from Grace Parisi's 'Best Holiday Hors d'Oeuvres' in F&W Magazine, December 2007.
What garnish is used for these rolls?
Snipped fresh chives are used to garnish the top of each roll.
What gives the filling a zesty flavor?
Finely grated lemon zest is added to the lobster mixture for a bright, citrusy note.
How much lobster meat is required?
You will need 3/4 lb of coarsely chopped lobster meat.
Can I use lump crab instead of lobster?
Yes, lump crab is an excellent and versatile substitute for lobster in this recipe.
How do I ensure the rolls don't fall apart?
Leave a 1/2-inch border all around the edge when cutting the plug from the top of the roll.
How much mayonnaise is needed in total?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup plus an additional 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise.
Are these suitable for elegant gatherings?
Yes, these gourmet bites are described as a sophisticated twist perfect for festive and elegant occasions.
Should the lobster be finely or coarsely chopped?
The lobster should be coarsely chopped before being pulsed in the food processor.
What type of salt and pepper should I use?
The recipe calls for salt to taste and freshly cracked or ground black pepper.
Can I use Parker House rolls?
Yes, Parker House rolls are a great alternative if brioche rolls are unavailable.
What is the texture of the finished filling?
The filling should have a chunky paste-like consistency.
How much tarragon is needed?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of chopped tarragon.
What is the best way to serve them?
Serve them immediately after filling or lightly chilled for optimal freshness.