Step 1

Combine the fennel seed, peppercorns, coriander seed, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves and tie in a cheesecloth bag. Put the bag in a large pot with the water, the lemon halves, the garlic, the wine, and the salt. Cover and bring to a simmer, then simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 2

Add the potatoes, onions and artichokes and simmer gently, covered, until they are tender. As they are done, remove them to a serving platter. The potatoes may take 20 minutes or more; the onions and artichokes will take 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 3

After you have removed all the vegetables, add the lobsters. Cook just until they turn pink, about 15 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon to the serving platter. Then add the shrimp and clams and cook until the shrimp turn pink and begin to curl and the clams open fully, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Cut the onions in half. Cut the artichokes in half and scoop out and discard the chokes.

Step 5

Serve the shrimp, potatoes, onions, and artichokes with shallow bowls of melted butter, sea salt and the Fennel Spice Rub for dipping, and with jars of hot sauce.