Get to know more about tomalley.
If youre a seafood lover, youre likely excited when lobster season comes around.
Here’s what it isand whether you should eat it or avoid it.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Meet The Experts
Whats the Green Stuff in Lobster?
Tomalley functions as both the liver and pancreas for a lobsters digestive system.
When the lobster is cooked, the digestive organs change color.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
“Tomalley, the digestive gland of a lobster, turns green when cooked, says Brady.
Some may refer to it as a lobster paste.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Why Is Tomalley Considered a Delicacy?
Its considered a delicacy for its creamy texture and bold sea-like shellfish flavor, says Lubin.
Limited access and availability makes tomalley even more sought-after, helping it reach delicacy status.
There is a supply and demand issue at hand, due to the small amount available, says Brady.
“It is an excellent thickening agent for seafood sauces or evenlobster bisque,” says Lubin.
“It is also used in pate form to spread on a crostini or tea sandwiches.”
Where you live will also influence how you eat and prepare this special ingredient.
Theres a slight difference in texture, depending on if its a male or female lobster.
Wondering how to tell a male and female lobster apart?
The males have a green tomalley while the females have more of a yellow-tinted tomalley, says Brady.
My personal preference is the female tomalley for a nicer color and thicker texture, says Brady.
Is It Safe To Eat?
Most people can handle eating a lobsters digestive glands on occasion.
The bodies of most healthy individuals can sustain consuming moderate amounts of tomalley, says Lubin.
Because its where everything the lobster consumes is processed, tomalley may contain toxins.
Consuming in moderation is recommended.
“Eating too much tomalley can have negative effects on the human body, says Brady.
Cooking lobster wont minimize the toxins found in a lobster.
