Scott DeSimon's Lobster Stew

INGREDIENTS

• Tabasco
• 2 1 1/4-pound lobsters (female if you have a choice; you want the roe)
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, divided
• Freshly ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon brandy or Cognac
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 large shallot, chopped
• Kosher salt
• 2 cups half-and-half