The first time I took a bite of a perfectly fried Scotch egg, I was hooked on its delightful combination of textures and flavors. So, imagine my excitement when I decided to elevate this classic British snack into something truly extraordinary. Enter the Lobster Scotch Egg with Celeriac Slaw and Lovage Mayonnaise! This dish wraps succulent lobster and delicate haddock around a quail egg, enveloped in a crispy Panko coating.
Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of rich seafood flavor, complemented perfectly by a fresh, crunchy slaw and a herby drizzle of lovage mayonnaise. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or seeking a sophisticated weekend treat, this refined twist on a familiar favorite is sure to transform any occasion. Get ready to indulge in a culinary experience that fuses comfort food with the elegance of fine dining!
Why Will You Love Lobster Scotch Egg?
Elevated Snacking: This dish takes a beloved classic to gourmet heights, making it perfect for special occasions.
Delectable Flavors: The combination of sweet lobster and delicate haddock creates an unforgettable seafood experience that delights the palate.
Crispy Perfection: A golden Panko crust ensures each bite is satisfyingly crunchy, enhancing the overall texture.
Versatile Pairing: The fresh celeriac slaw and lovage mayonnaise add brightness, making this dish suitable for various dining settings.
Fun and Impressive: Surprise your friends and family at your next gathering with this refined take that’s still approachable and fun! Discover why you’ll be hooked on this innovative recipe!
Ingredients for Lobster Scotch Egg
• A beautifully crafted delight awaits with these ingredients that elevate your seafood experience!
For the Filling
- Quail Eggs – Essential for the Scotch egg; can substitute with chicken eggs if needed, adjusting the cooking time.
- Lobster Tail – The star ingredient that imparts a rich flavor; feel free to use crab if you’re in the mood for a change.
- Haddock – Adds a lovely texture; a firm white fish can easily replace it for a similar outcome.
- Egg White – Helps bind the filling together; liquid egg whites work well if you’re in a pinch.
- Lemon Zest – Brightens the dish; swap it with lime zest for a different citrusy flair.
- Dill & Chervil – Adds fresh herbal notes; tarragon or parsley can serve as viable substitutes.
For the Coating
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Guarantees a satisfying crunch; use regular breadcrumbs if Panko isn’t available.
- Plain Flour – Aids in dredging; whole wheat flour can offer a healthier option.
- Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying; don’t hesitate to use a higher smoke-point oil like canola or peanut oil.
For the Lovage Mayonnaise
- Sunflower Oil – A key ingredient for emulsification; olive oil can bring a delightful flavor twist.
- Fresh Lovage – Crucial for the mayonnaise’s unique taste; alternatives like basil or cilantro can inspire new flavors.
For the Celeriac Slaw
- Celeriac – The crunchy base of the slaw; kohlrabi or turnip can make suitable substitutes.
- Fennel & Red Onion – Contributes flavor and texture; feel free to adjust with other mild onions or veggies.
Craft your very own Lobster Scotch Egg with Celeriac Slaw and Lovage Mayonnaise that transforms an ordinary day into a spectacular culinary adventure!
How to Make Lobster Scotch Egg
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Boil Eggs: Start by cooking the quail eggs for 2 minutes and 10 seconds. After boiling, immerse them in iced water to stop the cooking process. For the lobster, blanch it for 30 seconds and then chill in ice water.
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Prepare Filling: Once the lobster is cooled, remove the shell and dice the meat. Combine the diced lobster, haddock, egg white, lemon zest, dill, and chervil in a bowl. Refrigerate this mixture for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
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Make Lovage Mayonnaise: Blanch fresh lovage leaves in boiling water for a minute, then chop them. Blend the chopped lovage with egg yolks and sunflower oil until emulsified, adding a pinch of salt and a splash of lemon juice to taste.
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Prepare Celeriac Slaw: Slice the celeriac into matchsticks and sprinkle with salt to draw out the liquid. After about 15 minutes, mix the drained celeriac with sliced fennel, red onion, and a dollop of lovage mayonnaise for added flavor.
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Assemble Scotch Eggs: Take your chilled lobster mixture and shape it around each quail egg. Dredge the coated eggs in flour, dip them in beaten egg, then roll them in Panko breadcrumbs to create a crunchy exterior.
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Fry: Heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F) in a deep pan. Carefully deep-fry the Scotch eggs until they are golden brown, approximately 3 minutes. For an extra crispy finish, transfer them to the oven for an additional 4 minutes.
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Serve: Slice the Scotch eggs in half to reveal the beautiful filling. Serve with a generous side of lovage mayonnaise and celeriac slaw garnished with crispy capers and fresh herbs for a delightful presentation.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra lovage mayo for additional flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lobster Scotch Egg
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Egg Handling: Be gentle with quail eggs while peeling to prevent breakage. It’s wise to boil a few extra as backups!
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Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil reaches 180°C (350°F) for a perfectly crispy crust. Too low and they’ll absorb excess oil; too high can burn the coating.
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Mayonnaise Consistency: Blend the sunflower oil slowly when making the lovage mayonnaise to avoid splitting. If it does, adding a little water can help smooth it out.
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Chill Time: Allow the filling to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to shape around the quail eggs.
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Texture Variation: For extra crunch, consider using a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs and crushed cornflakes. This enhances the delightful crunch of your lobster Scotch egg.
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Serving Style: Pair your lobster Scotch egg with a refreshing side salad or crusty bread, balancing the richness of the dish while showcasing your culinary skills.
Make Ahead Options
These Lobster Scotch Eggs with Celeriac Slaw and Lovage Mayonnaise are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the lobster and haddock filling up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it to let the flavors meld beautifully. The celeriac slaw can be assembled and stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container, ensuring it stays fresh and crunchy. When you’re ready to serve, simply shape the filling around the quail eggs and follow the frying instructions for a deliciously crispy exterior. For the lovage mayonnaise, making it ahead and refrigerating it will maintain its vibrant flavor. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Lobster Scotch Egg
Fridge: Keep the lobster Scotch eggs in an airtight container for up to 1 day. This ensures they stay fresh, but try to consume them promptly for the best taste.
Freezer: You can freeze unfried Scotch eggs for up to 2 months. Wrap each carefully in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frying.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy, ensuring your lobster Scotch egg retains its delightful crunch.
Celeriac Slaw: This slaw is best served fresh and does not freeze well. Prepare it just before serving for optimal crispness and flavor.
Variations & Substitutions for Lobster Scotch Egg
Invite your creativity to shine as you explore these delightful twists on the classic Scotch egg, offering unique tastes and textures.
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Seafood Switch: Replace lobster with crab or shrimp for a different shellfish experience. Each option brings its own sweet and savory notes to this luxurious dish.
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Herb Twist: Try substituting lovage in the mayonnaise with fresh basil or cilantro for a garden-fresh twist that will brighten each bite with an aromatic kick.
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Veggie Boost: Add shredded carrots or thinly sliced radishes to the slaw for an additional crunch. These colorful vegetables not only enhance the texture but also bring vibrant flavor contrasts.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Swap the plain flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier and more nutritious option that still holds the coating beautifully.
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Heat Level: For those who crave a little kick, mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the lobster filling to elevate the flavors with a spicy pop.
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Fish Alternative: Use a different firm white fish, such as cod or pollock, instead of haddock for a subtly varied flavor profile while keeping the dish’s essence intact.
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Different Slaw Base: If you’re looking for a change, substitute celeriac with kohlrabi or shredded Brussels sprouts. Both options provide a unique crunch while remaining refreshing.
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Panko Texture: For extra crunch, mix Panko with crushed cornflakes before coating the Scotch eggs, delivering an unbeatable crispiness that enhances the experience.
Embrace these variations to craft a personalized lobster Scotch egg that’s uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Lobster Scotch Egg with Celeriac Slaw and Lovage Mayonnaise?
Every exquisite dish deserves delightful accompaniments that complement its flavors and textures beautifully.
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Crispy Potato Chips: The saltiness and crunch of homemade chips enhance the lobster’s richness while offering an irresistible texture contrast.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs marvelously, as its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the seafood.
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Garden Salad: A refreshing salad of mixed greens with citrus dressing provides a light, crisp element that balances the dish’s decadence.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous with lemon zest and herbs brings brightness and a subtly chewy texture, creating a delightful bite alongside the Scotch egg.
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Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color, making the dish feel even more gourmet while complementing the seafood.
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Tomato Bruschetta: The freshness of tomatoes and herbs atop crusty bread offers a burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the Scotch egg, enhancing each bite.
Make your meal unforgettable by pairing your Lobster Scotch Egg with any of these delicious sides!
Lobster Scotch Egg with Celeriac Slaw and Lovage Mayonnaise Recipe FAQs
What type of quail eggs should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh, high-quality quail eggs for the best flavor and texture. Look for ones that are clean and free from cracks. If quail eggs are unavailable, chicken eggs can be a good alternative; just be sure to adjust the boiling time to around 6-7 minutes for soft-boiled.
How long can I store the Lobster Scotch Eggs in the fridge?
You can store the lobster Scotch eggs in an airtight container for up to 1 day. To maintain the crispy texture, avoid stacking them, and try to consume them promptly for the best flavor and crunch.
Can you freeze Lobster Scotch Eggs?
Absolutely! You can freeze unfried lobster Scotch eggs for up to 2 months. Wrap each egg carefully in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight, then fry them directly from the thawed state.
What if my lovage mayonnaise splits while blending?
If your mayonnaise splits, don’t fret! Simply add a teaspoon of warm water gradually while blending. This can help re-emulsify the mixture. Alternatively, you can whisk an extra egg yolk in a separate bowl and slowly incorporate the split mixture to bring it back together.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you or your guests have seafood allergies, this recipe contains shellfish, which can trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, ensure that the accompanying lovage mayonnaise does not contain any ingredients that might be allergens for your guests. Always double-check with your guests for dietary restrictions before serving.
Can I make variations on the ingredients for dietary preferences?
Certainly! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can replace the lobster with crab or prawns for a different taste. For the mayonnaise, using fresh basil or cilantro instead of lovage can also bring exciting flavors. Adjusting the slaw by adding grated carrots or radishes can provide a colorful twist!
Lobster Scotch Egg with Celeriac Slaw for Gourmet Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil quail eggs for 2 minutes and 10 seconds, then immerse in iced water. Blanch lobster for 30 seconds and chill in ice water.
- Remove shell from lobster, dice the meat, and combine with haddock, egg white, lemon zest, dill, and chervil in a bowl. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Blanch lovage leaves in boiling water for 1 minute, chop, and blend with egg yolks and sunflower oil until emulsified, seasoning to taste.
- Slice celeriac into matchsticks, sprinkle with salt, and after 15 minutes mix with fennel, red onion, and lovage mayonnaise.
- Shape the lobster mixture around each quail egg, dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, and roll in Panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F) in a deep pan and fry Scotch eggs until golden brown, approximately 3 minutes. Transfer to the oven for an extra 4 minutes if desired.
- Slice Scotch eggs in half to reveal the filling and serve with lovage mayonnaise and celeriac slaw garnished with crispy capers and fresh herbs.