Easy, Tender London Broil Recipe

‍London broil is a popular dish that originated in North America, despite its name suggesting otherwise. Contrary to popular belief, London broil is not a specific cut of meat, but rather a cooking method that transforms tougher cuts of beef into a tender and flavorful dish. The name “London broil” is believed to have been coined in the early 20th century when it gained popularity in American restaurants.

Traditionally, London broil was made using top round or flank steak, but nowadays, various cuts of beef can be used to create this delicious dish. The key to achieving a tender London broil lies in the marinade and cooking technique, which we’ll explore in detail later in this article.

Choosing the right cut of meat for London broil

When it comes to selecting the perfect cut of meat for your London broil, it’s important to choose a tougher cut that benefits from marinating and tenderizing. Some popular choices include top round, flank steak, or even sirloin. These cuts of meat have a rich flavor but tend to be tougher due to their location on the animal. However, with the right marinade and cooking method, they can be transformed into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy.

Ensure that the meat is well-marbled with fat, as this will contribute to the tenderness and juiciness of the final dish. Look for cuts that are about 1 to 1.5 inches thick, as thinner cuts may become overcooked and less tender.

Marinating the London broil for maximum tenderness

Marinating is an essential step in preparing a tender London broil. The marinade not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps to break down the connective tissues, resulting in a more tender and succulent dish.

To create a flavorful and tenderizing marinade for your London broil, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with a base of soy sauce, which adds a savory umami flavor. Then, add brown sugar for sweetness, minced garlic for a hint of pungency, and Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor. You can also experiment with additional ingredients like Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, or fresh herbs to customize the marinade to your taste.

Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk them together until the sugar has dissolved. Place the London broil in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring that it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it.

Remember to flip the meat occasionally during the marinating process to ensure even distribution of the marinade. This will result in a well-flavored and tender London broil.

Preparing the grill for cooking London broil

Grilling is the preferred method for cooking London broil, as it imparts a smoky flavor and creates a delicious charred crust on the meat. Before you start grilling, it’s important to prepare the grill properly to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Start by cleaning the grill grates thoroughly to remove any residue from previous use. Use a grill brush to scrub away any debris, and then preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This will help to create those beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices of the London broil.

Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent the meat from sticking. You can use a pair of tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to do this. Simply grip the oiled paper towel with the tongs and rub it over the grates.

Grilling the London broil to perfection

Remove the London broil from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear on the grill. Season the meat with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings, just before grilling.

Place the London broil directly on the preheated grill grates at a 45-degree angle to create those classic grill marks. Close the grill and cook the meat for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness.

If you prefer your London broil more well-done, adjust the cooking time accordingly. However, be cautious not to overcook the meat, as it may become tough and lose its tenderness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. For medium-rare, the thermometer should read around 135°F (57°C), while medium doneness is around 145°F (63°C).

Resting and slicing the London broil

Once the London broil reaches the desired doneness, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.

After the resting period, it’s time to slice the London broil. To ensure optimal tenderness, it’s important to slice the meat against the grain. Look for the lines of muscle fibers running through the meat and cut perpendicular to them. This will help to break up the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a tender and easy-to-chew bite.

Slice the London broil into thin strips, about ¼ to ½ inch thick, for maximum tenderness. Be sure to use a sharp knife to make clean cuts through the meat. Arrange the sliced meat on a platter, and it’s ready to be served.

Easy, Tender London Broil Recipe

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Resting Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 338 kcal

‍London broil is a popular dish that originated in North America, despite its name suggesting otherwise. Contrary to popular belief, London broil is not a specific cut of meat, but rather a cooking method that transforms tougher cuts of beef into a tender and flavorful dish.

Kitchen equipment list

• 1 Conventional oven/ Outdoor Grill (Grill is best!)

Ingredients

  

123

• ▢ 1 London Broil steak
• ▢ 3 tbsp Olive Oil
• ▢ 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• ▢ 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• ▢ ½ tsp Garlic Powder
• ▢ ½ tsp Onion Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• ▢ ½ tsp Black Pepper
• ▢ ½ tsp Kosher Salt

Instructions 

• Mix all ingredients and rub it over the London broil and let sit for a few hours in the fridge (It's great if you could do this ahead of time); I usually do 2 to 3 hours!
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (If you are using a conventional oven please use High broil)
• Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent the meat from sticking.
• Remove the London broil from the marinade
• Place the London broil directly on the preheated grill grates at a 45-degree angle to create those classic grill marks.
• Close the grill and cook the meat for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness.
• Be cautious not to overcook the meat, as it may become tough and lose its tenderness.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat.
• For medium-rare, the thermometer should read around 135°F (57°C), while medium doneness is around 145°F (63°C).
• Once the London broil reaches the desired doneness, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes.
• This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.
• Enjoy!

❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips

Tips for cooking London broil indoors

While grilling is the preferred method for cooking London broil, it's not always feasible, especially during colder months or if you don't have access to an outdoor grill. However, you can still achieve a tender and flavorful London broil using alternative cooking methods indoors. Here are a few tips:

1. Broiling: Preheat your broiler and place the London broil on a broiler pan or a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Position the meat about 3 to 4 inches away from the heat source and broil for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the desired doneness is reached.
2. Pan-searing: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the pan is hot, sear the London broil for a few minutes on each side until a crust forms. Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until the desired doneness is achieved.
3. Oven-roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat an oven-safe skillet over high heat and sear the London broil for a few minutes on each side. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the desired doneness is reached.

Remember to adjust the cooking times based on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness. It's always a good idea to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.

Nutrition

Serving: 113 gCalories: 338 kcalCarbohydrates: 0.3 gProtein: 33 gFat: 22 g

Keyword London Broil

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Serving suggestions and side dishes for London broil

London broil is a versatile dish that pairs well with various side dishes and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to complement your tender London broil:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Serve your London broil with a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The smoky flavors from the grill will harmonize perfectly with the meat.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice to accompany a tender London broil. The rich and buttery texture of the potatoes complements the meat beautifully.
3. Fresh Salad: A light and refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the London broil. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a tomato and cucumber salad with a hint of fresh herbs.
4. Garlic Bread: Add some crusty garlic bread to your meal to soak up the delicious juices from the London broil. The combination of the crispy bread and flavorful meat is simply irresistible.

Feel free to experiment with different sides and create a meal that suits your taste preferences. The options are endless, and you can mix and match to create a truly memorable dining experience.

Variations and flavor options for London broil marinades

While the classic marinade mentioned earlier is a foolproof choice for a tender London broil, there are numerous other flavor options and variations to explore. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

1. Asian-inspired: Swap out the Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce and add ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of honey for a delicious Asian twist.
2. Italian-inspired: Create an Italian-inspired marinade by combining balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs like rosemary and thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
3. Citrus-infused: Add a burst of freshness to your London broil by incorporating citrus flavors. Combine orange juice, lime juice, lemon zest, and a touch of honey for a bright and zesty marinade.
4. Spicy kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding some spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to your marinade. You can also include minced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Feel free to play around with different ingredients and flavors to create a marinade that suits your taste preferences. The beauty of London broil is its versatility, allowing you to experiment and customize the dish to your liking.

Some Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of creating an easy and tender London broil. With the right cut of meat, a flavorful marinade, and proper cooking techniques, you can enjoy a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

Whether you choose to grill it outdoors or opt for indoor cooking methods, the result will be a juicy and tender London broil that is bursting with flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different marinades and side dishes to create a meal that suits your taste preferences.

So, next time you’re craving a delicious and satisfying dinner, reach for your apron and follow this easy London broil recipe. With a little bit of time and effort, you’ll be rewarded with a restaurant-worthy dish that you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.