London broil is a popular cut of beef typically grilled or broiled, making it a perfect dish for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home. Cooking London broil can seem intimidating with its flavorful and tender meat, but it’s a straightforward process that anyone can master. This article will guide you through cook London broil.
What is London broil?
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s first understand what London broil is. London broil is a method of preparing beef that involves marinating a flank or top round steak and then cooking it by broiling or grilling.
The name “London broil” refers to the cooking method rather than a specific cut of meat. Many cuts of meat can be used for London broil, but flank steak and top round steak are the most common choices due to their relatively affordable price and lean meat.
What Meat type is best for Cooking London Broil Recipe?
The best meat types for cooking a London broil recipe are flank steak and top round steak. Flank steak is a lean cut of meat that is flavorful but can be tough if not cooked correctly. Marinating the meat helps to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor. Top round steak is another lean meat cut often used for London broil.
It is tougher than flank steak but also more affordable. Both cuts of meat are best when marinated for several hours or overnight before cooking. Choosing a high-quality cut of meat is also important for achieving the best results.
Consult with your local butcher for their recommendations on the best cut of meat for your London broil recipe.
London Broil Ingredients
The ingredients for a basic London broil recipe typically include:
- 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of flank steak or top round steak
- Marinade (store-bought or homemade) consisting of oil, vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and other seasonings of your choice
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Additional ingredients can be added to the marinade or used as a rub on the meat before cooking, such as:
- Dijon mustard
- Brown sugar
- Lemon juice
- Honey
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
It’s important to note that while the basic recipe only requires a few ingredients, adding extra seasonings and flavors can elevate the dish and make it even more delicious.
Preparing the Meat
- Choose the right cut of meat, such as flank steak or top round steak that is about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick and has a nice marbling of fat.
- Prepare the meat for cooking by marinating it for several hours or overnight.
- You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own by combining oil, vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and other seasonings of your choice.
- Place the steak and marinade in a large resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
Cooking the Meat: How to Cook London Broil Perfectly
Preparing the Meat
When you’re ready to cook your London broil, remove it from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure it has reached room temperature before cooking. It ensures even cooking of the meat.
Preheating the Broiler or Grill
Preheat your broiler or grill to high heat. If you’re using a broiler, position the oven rack about 4 inches away from the heating element. If you’re using a grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
Seasoning the Meat
Season the steak on both sides with salt and pepper. Place it on the broiler pan or grill grates and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) on a meat thermometer. For medium, cook for 8 to 10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking the steak, as this can result in tough, dry meat.
Resting the Meat
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. By doing so, the meat becomes more tender and juicy because the juices are redistributed throughout.
Slicing and Serving the Meat
After resting, slice the meat against the grain into thin strips and serve. Enjoy your perfectly cooked and delicious London broil!
What Temperature to Cook London Broil?
London broil should be cooked to an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare doneness, or 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked to the desired temperature and avoid overcooking, which can result in tough, dry meat.
Tips to Cook London Broil
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect London broil:
- Make sure your meat is at room temperature before cooking. This allows the steak to cook evenly.
- Use a thermometer to check the meat’s internal temperature. This is the best way to ensure that your steak is cooked to the desired doneness.
- Let the meat rest after cooking. This is an important step that allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Slice the meat against the grain. This helps to break up the tough muscle fibers in the meat, resulting in a more tender and enjoyable eating experience.
- Experiment with different marinades and seasonings. London broil is a versatile dish that can be flavored in many different ways, so don’t be afraid to try new things.
With these tips and techniques, you can cook a delicious London broil that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or cooking a cozy dinner at home, London broil is a perfect choice for any occasion.
You May Also Interested:
- How to Cook Lobster Tails
- How to Cook Liver
- How to Cook Lamb Loin Chops
- How Long to Cook Chuck Roast in Oven
How to Serve London Broil?
London broil is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas: Serve the sliced meat with roasted vegetables or a salad for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Make a sandwich with the meat and your favorite toppings, such as cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Use the sliced meat as a topping for tacos or nachos. Serve the meat alongside grilled or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
What to Serve with London Broil?
There are many delicious side dishes that can be served with London broil. A few options are following:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts is an excellent complement to the savory flavors of London broil.
- Grilled Corn: Grilling corn on the cob adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the charred exterior of London broil.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can help balance out the strong flavors of London broil.
- Rice or Quinoa: A side of rice or quinoa can help absorb some of the juices from the London broil, adding flavor and texture to the meal.
- Salad: A fresh and light salad, such as a Caesar salad or mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing, can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty London broil.
Ultimately, the best side dishes to serve with London broil depend on your personal preferences and the occasion. Consider experimenting with different sides to find the perfect combination for your meal.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do you cook London broil so it’s not tough?
To cook London broil so it’s not tough, you should choose a cut of meat that is about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick and has a nice marbling of fat. Marinating the steak for several hours or overnight can help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
When cooking, be sure not to overcook the steak and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Slicing the meat against the grain can also help to make it tenderer.
Should London broil be cooked fast or slow?
London broil should be cooked quickly at high heat. This is typically achieved by broiling or grilling the meat for a few minutes on each side until it reaches the desired internal temperature. Slow cooking methods like braising or stewing are not recommended for London broil as they can result in tough and dry meat.
How long does it take for London broil to get tender?
The length of time it takes for London broil to become tender depends on several factors, including the thickness of the meat and the method of cooking. However, marinating the meat for several hours or overnight can help to tenderize it before cooking.
Additionally, letting the meat rest for 5 to 10 minutes after cooking can help to redistribute the juices and make it tenderer.
How do you know when London broil is done?
The best way to know when London broil is done is to use a cooking thermometer. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should reach 135°F (57°C). For a medium steak, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). It’s important to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to get an accurate reading.
Another way to check for doneness is to use the finger test, which involves pressing the meat with your finger to feel for the level of firmness. A rare steak will be soft and spongy, medium-rare will be slightly firm with some give, medium will be firmer but still yielding, and well-done will be very firm.
What’s the best way to tenderize a London broil?
The best way to tenderize a London broil is to marinate it for several hours or overnight before cooking. A marinade that contains acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juices can help to break down the tough fibers in the meat and make it tenderer.
Another method is to use a meat tenderizer tool to pierce the meat all over, which can also help to break down the fibers. However, be careful not to over-tenderize the meat, as this can result in a mushy texture.
Is it better to cook London broil in the oven or pan?
Both oven and pan are viable methods for cooking London broil, and the best method depends on personal preference and the available equipment.
Cooking London broil in the oven is often done under the broiler setting or at high temperature, and it can give a nice charred crust and evenly cook the meat.
On the other hand, cooking London broil in a pan can be done on high heat, which allows for a nice sear and crust to develop. This method also allows for more control over the cooking process, as it’s easier to adjust the heat as needed.
Overall, both methods can result in a delicious London broil, and it’s up to the cook to decide which method works best for them.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, London broil is a delicious and flavorful cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. To cook a great London broil, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat, marinate it for several hours or overnight, and cook it to the right temperature.
Whether you choose to cook it in the oven or on the stovetop, the key is to not overcook the meat to avoid it becoming tough and dry. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and tender London broil that will be a hit with your family and friends.