New York Times Lobster Thermidor

Cook and clean the lobsters. Twist off the claws, reserving the small claws for garnish. Remove meat from the bodies and cut into small pieces. Crack the large claws, remove meat and cube. Reserve the shells.

Preheat oven to a moderate 350 degrees F.

Heat 1/2 cup of the butter, add the mushrooms and cook three minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the lobster meat, crumbs, seasonings, sherry, cognac, cream and egg yolks. Mix well.

Fill the lobster shells with the mixture, sprinkle with cheese, dot with the remaining butter and sprinkle with paprika.

Place in a shallow pan and bake for fifteen minutes. Serve.