Caribbean Jerk Grilled Florida Spiny Lobster Recipe

Introduction

There is something undeniably magical about the combination of sweet, succulent seafood and the fiery, aromatic spices of the Caribbean. This Caribbean Jerk Grilled Florida Spiny Lobster recipe brings that island flair right to your backyard, utilizing the versatility of the Arteflame grill to achieve restaurant-quality results. Unlike their Maine cousins, Florida spiny lobsters have no claws, focusing all that delicate, firm meat in the tail, which holds up beautifully to the high heat of a grill. The absence of heavy claws makes them easier to prep and perfect for splitting open and slathering with flavor.

By cooking this dish on the Arteflame, you gain a distinct advantage: the ability to manage different heat zones simultaneously. You can sear the lobster flesh to lock in moisture on the high-heat center grate or flat top, while gently basting it with a rich, spicy jerk butter on the cooler outer zones. The result is a smoky char that complements the complex allspice and scotch bonnet notes without overpowering the lobster's natural sweetness. This recipe is more than a meal; it is a vibrant culinary experience.

Ingredients

• 4 Florida Spiny Lobster tails (approx. 8-10 oz each)
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp Caribbean Jerk seasoning (wet rub preferred for better adhesion)
• 1 tbsp Fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp Olive oil (for brushing)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster

1. Using sharp kitchen shears, cut down the center of the hard top shell of the lobster tail, stopping just before the tail fin. Do not cut through the bottom shell.
2. Gently pry the shell apart with your fingers to expose the meat.
3. Lift the meat up and over the shell, keeping it attached at the base of the tail (this is called "butterflying"). This presentation allows the smoke and heat to penetrate the meat evenly.
4. Brush the exposed meat lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Start a fire in the center of your Arteflame grill using charcoal or hardwood.
2. Allow the grill to burn down until the center cooktop reaches searing temperature (over 400°F), while the outer ring remains slightly cooler.
3. Wipe the flat top cooktop with a thin layer of vegetable oil to ensure a non-stick surface.

Step 3: Make the Jerk Butter

1. Place a small cast-iron saucepot or a heat-safe metal bowl directly on the flat top surface of the grill.
2. Add the butter, minced garlic, and Caribbean Jerk seasoning.
3. Let the butter melt completely, stirring to combine the spices.
4. Once melted and fragrant, stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Move the pot to the outer edge of the grill to keep warm without burning the butter solids.

Step 4: Grill the Lobster

1. Place the lobster tails meat-side down directly on the hot flat top griddle surface.
2. Sear for about 2 to 3 minutes until the meat develops a beautiful golden-brown crust and grill marks.
3. Flip the tails over so they are shell-side down.
4. Immediately brush a generous amount of the warm jerk butter over the exposed meat.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Move the tails slightly further from the center fire to finish cooking gently in the shell.
2. Cover with a basting dome if available to help steam the meat, or simply let them roast for another 3 to 5 minutes until the meat is opaque and firm to the touch.
3. Remove from the grill and drizzle with any remaining jerk butter. Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges.

Tips

Grilling lobster requires attention to detail to ensure the meat remains tender rather than becoming rubbery. The Florida Spiny Lobster is known for its firm texture, but it can dry out quickly if overcooked. A great visual cue is the color of the shell; it will turn a vibrant bright orange when the lobster is ready. However, the true test is the meat itself—it should turn from translucent to an opaque white. If you are unsure, use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 135°F (57°C).

When using the Arteflame, take advantage of the temperature gradient. If your fire is roaring, the center might be too hot for the finishing stage. Don't be afraid to slide the lobster to the coolest outer edge of the cooktop to let it baste in the butter without scorching the delicate proteins. Also, if your jerk seasoning is very salty, switch to unsalted butter to maintain a balanced flavor profile that highlights the seafood rather than burying it in sodium.

Variations

While the traditional jerk profile is spectacular, you can easily tweak this recipe to suit different palates or dietary needs. The versatility of the Arteflame flat top allows you to experiment with sauces and sides simultaneously. Here are a few ways to mix things up:

• Creamy Coconut Jerk: Stir 2 tablespoons of coconut cream into your melting butter mixture for a richer, tropical sauce that cuts the heat.
• Citrus Herb Infusion: If you prefer less heat, replace the jerk seasoning with a mix of lemon zest, fresh dill, and paprika for a milder, garden-fresh flavor.
• Surf and Turf: Grill a ribeye steak alongside the lobster on the center grate while the tails finish roasting on the flat top.
• Honey Glazed: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the jerk butter to create a caramelized glaze that creates a sweet heat profile.
• Spicy Garlic Bomb: Double the garlic and add fresh diced scotch bonnet peppers to the butter for an intense heat kick for spice lovers.

Best pairings

To turn this grilled lobster into a complete Caribbean feast, you need sides that balance the heat and richness of the jerk butter. Starchy, comforting sides work best to absorb the spicy sauce. The smoky atmosphere created by the Arteflame grilling process naturally complements tropical fruits and fresh vegetables.

• Rice and Peas: The traditional Jamaican side dish made with coconut milk, kidney beans, and thyme is the ultimate companion to jerk flavors.
• Grilled Pineapple: Slice fresh pineapple and sear it on the Arteflame flat top alongside the lobster. The caramelized sugars neutralize the spice.
• Mango Salsa: A cold, fresh salsa with diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice provides a cooling contrast to the hot grill.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet, ripe plantains fried on the flat top add a necessary texture and sweetness.
• Drink Pairing: Serve with a cold Red Stripe beer or a minty Mojito to cleanse the palate between bites.

Conclusion

This Caribbean Jerk Grilled Florida Spiny Lobster recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and outdoor cooking culture. By combining the fresh, oceanic sweetness of the lobster with the aromatic heat of allspice, thyme, and peppers, you create a dish that is complex yet incredibly satisfying. The Arteflame grill acts as the perfect vessel for this culinary journey, providing the high heat needed for a perfect sear and the varied temperature zones required for gentle basting.

Whether you are hosting a summer cookout or looking for a special weekend dinner, this recipe delivers a wow factor that is hard to beat. The vibrant colors, the intoxicating smell of sizzling butter and spices, and the communal nature of grilling make this more than just dinner—it’s a memory in the making. Gather your friends, fire up the grill, and enjoy the taste of the islands.