Arroz con Bogavante
A luxurious Spanish rice dish featuring fresh lobster (bogavante), cooked in a flavorful tomato and saffron broth. It's a celebratory dish often found in coastal areas of Spain.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 medium Lobster(about 600-700g, live or pre-cooked)
- 300 g Arborio or Bomba rice
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 200 g Ripe tomatoes(grated or pureed)
- 1 liter Fish broth(warm)
- 1 pinch Saffron threads(infused in a little warm broth)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 50 ml Brandy or dry sherry(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using a live lobster, humanely dispatch it. Separate the tail and claws. Crack the shell of the tail and claws to expose the meat. Reserve the head and shell for making broth if not using pre-made fish broth.
- 2
In a wide, shallow pan (paella pan or similar), heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the grated tomatoes and cook until the moisture has evaporated and the mixture is thick. If using, add the brandy or sherry and let it cook off.
- 4
Add the rice and stir well to coat it with the tomato mixture. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes.
- 5
Pour in the warm fish broth and the saffron-infused broth. Season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
- 6
Arrange the lobster tail and claw pieces on top of the rice. Cover and cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Do not stir the rice too much.
- 7
Remove from heat, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use high-quality fresh lobster for the best results.
- ✓Bomba rice is ideal for paella-style dishes as it absorbs liquid well without becoming mushy.
- ✓Don't stir the rice too much once the liquid is added, as this can release too much starch and make the dish gummy.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other seafood like shrimp or mussels along with the lobster.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.