Consommé is one of those cheffy dishes that is hard to get right, but is so simple and beautiful: this version features a broth with intense lobster flavour served with lobster tail and claw.
To make the consommé, fry the lobster shells in olive oil for five minutes, deglaze the pan with a small splash of the brandy and drain the shells in a colander.
In a separate pan, fry the carrots, fennel, garlic, star anise, coriander seeds and shallots in a dash of olive oil for five minutes.
Add the tomato purée and cook for three minutes. Add the shells, chicken stock, brandy and tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 40 minutes.
Remove from the heat, cool slightly and strain through a muslin cloth into a clean bowl. Leave to cool completely.
To clarify the consommé, mix all the ingredients for the clarification in a blender and whisk it into the chilled lobster stock.
Place onto the heat and bring to a simmer.
Once a crust forms on the top, make a small hole with a ladle and simmer for 20 minutes.
Remove from the heat and carefully strain through double muslin, taste and season if necessary. Leave to chill in the fridge until ready to use.
Cut the cooked lobster tails into segments and place in a chilled bowl. Carefully arrange the garnish ingredients on top and then pour the chilled consommé over. Finish with a drizzle of lemon oil.
