Step 1

Boil lobsters, covered, in 3 gallons of water and 3/4 cup salt in a 5-gallon stockpot for 10 minutes or until shells are bright orange-red and tails are curled. Remove from pan; cool. Remove meat from shells. Coarsely chop the meat; refrigerate.

Step 2

Combine lobster shells, 8 cups water, and bay leaves in stockpot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour. Strain lobster stock through a colander into a large bowl; discard shells. Reserve 4 cups.

Step 3

Cook bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until crisp. Add onions; sauté 2 minutes. Stir in paprika and cumin. Add reserved 4 cups stock and potato; bring to a boil. Cook for 15 minutes or until potato is tender. Remove from heat. Stir in lobster meat, half-and-half, sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour, if desired.

Step 4

Return pan to low heat. Add corn; cook 5 minutes. Garnish with chives, if desired.