Boiled Lobster Tip: Freeze the live lobsters first. This is more humane. Fill a steaming pot with 4 inches of water. Add 2 cloves minced garlic, one handful salt and 1/4 cup red or white wine, and bring to a vigorous boil. Toss the lobsters head first into the boiling water. Two 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 pound lobsters take 12 to 14 minutes. Remove from boiling water and serve.