How To Cook A London Broil On The Grill
London broil is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be prepared using various cuts of meat. The name “London broil” actually refers to a cooking method rather than a specific cut of meat. The most common cut labeled as “London broil” in grocery stores is the top round steak, which comes from the rear leg of the cow. However, other cuts such as flank, flap, or skirt steak can also be used to prepare a delicious London broil.
Marinating the meat is essential to ensure a tender and flavorful London broil. A simple and balanced marinade can be made using ingredients such as olive oil, red wine vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like rosemary. The marinade helps to infuse the meat with flavor and tenderize it, making it a crucial step in the cooking process.
London Broil on the Grill
Grilling is the perfect method for cooking a London broil, as it allows for high heat cooking and imparts a delicious char-grilled flavor to the meat. Preheat the grill to around 450 degrees F for direct heat cooking. The thin piece of beef should be seared for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, rotating regularly to prevent burning. Using an instant-read thermometer, track the internal temperature of the meat and remove it from the grill at about 130-135 degrees F for a medium-rare doneness. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing it thinly and serving, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Best Marinades for London Broil
Marinating the meat is crucial for achieving a tender and flavorful London broil. A simple marinade can be made using ingredients such as balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. Marinating the meat for at least one hour, or ideally overnight, will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors.
How to Grill London Broil
When grilling a London broil, it’s important to use quality meat such as flank or top round steak, ideally organic or grass-fed. The thickness of the steak also affects the cooking process, as it should be less than 1-inch thick to ensure even cooking. Bringing the meat to room temperature before grilling helps to achieve a more consistent cook throughout the steak while still creating nice sear marks.
Steak Temperatures
Grilling the steak to the correct temperature is essential for achieving the desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare London broil, the internal temperature should reach around 135 degrees F. It’s important to use a digital meat thermometer for accurate results and to allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing, allowing the moisture to be absorbed back into the meat proteins.
How to Slice
Slicing the meat correctly is crucial for rendering it tender and easy to chew. It’s important to identify the direction of the grain in the meat and slice it across the grain at a 45-degree angle. This technique shortens the fibers in each slice, making the meat more tender and improving its texture when eating.
What to Serve with London Broil
A simple meal with a few basic sides is the best way to complement a delicious London broil. Serving the steak with baked sweet or white potatoes and a side salad such as a tossed salad or a cool Cucumber Mint Watermelon Salad makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of meat for London broil?
Yes, while the most common cut for London broil is the top round steak, other cuts such as flank, flap, or skirt steak can also be used with delicious results.
2. How long should I marinate the meat for?
Ideally, the meat should be marinated for at least one hour to allow the flavors to infuse. Marinating the meat overnight will help to tenderize it further and enhance its flavor.
3. What is the best temperature for grilling a London broil?
Preheat the grill to around 450 degrees F for direct heat cooking. The steak should be seared for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, rotating regularly to prevent burning.
4. How should I slice the meat for serving?
It’s important to identify the direction of the grain in the meat and slice it across the grain at a 45-degree angle. This technique shortens the fibers in each slice, making the meat more tender and improving its texture when eating.
5. What are the recommended internal temperatures for grilling a London broil?
For a medium-rare London broil, the internal temperature should reach around 135 degrees F. It’s important to use a digital meat thermometer for accurate results and to allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
London broil is a delicious and versatile dish that can be easily prepared on the grill. By following the right marinating and grilling techniques, you can enjoy a tender and flavorful steak that is perfect for any occasion.