When it comes to London broil, the side dishes can elevate the entire experience. Think about creamy mashed potatoes, which offer a delightful contrast to the beef’s tenderness.
You might also enjoy roasted seasonal vegetables, which add a vibrant splash of color and nutrition. A crisp garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the richness of the meat. And let’s not forget garlic bread. Who can resist that? Each bite of tender steak paired with sides can make the meal a delicious celebration.
You’ll Also Like These Recipes
If you’ve ever stumbled upon a steak that stands out in flavor and tenderness, that’s likely London broil. This recipe is straightforward, allowing for cooking at home to become an impressive culinary experience. What sets London broil apart is its ability to soak up marinades, bringing out flavors that dance on your palate. Let’s dive into this delightful dish, unearthing the potential it holds in every bite.
What is London Broil?
London broil isn’t a cut of beef itself; it refers to a cooking method traditionally involving marinated flank steak that is grilled or broiled. After cooking, the beef is sliced against the grain to enhance its tenderness. This method yields tender bites every time. For this recipe, we often use top round or sirloin, both of which are perfect not just for marinating, but also for maintaining flavor during cooking.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine rich, savory beef, infused with a blend of tangy and earthy flavors from the marinade. The Worcestershire sauce adds a deep umami punch. Meanwhile, the balsamic vinegar brings a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing out the savory notes. As garlic and herbs infuse their essence into the meat, each bite becomes a flavor-packed experience. It’s a balance of tender, juicy meat with zesty undertones that can’t be replicated.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and the tenderness of the beef. It caters to both seasoned chefs and beginners in the kitchen. The marinade can be prepared in a matter of minutes, and since it works to tenderize the meat while infusing flavor, the results are guaranteed to impress. Plus, who doesn’t like a dish that pairs well with countless sides and is easy to make for gatherings?
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather our essentials:
- 2 pounds London broil roast (top round or sirloin works well)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herb blend
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for a subtle tang)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (for balance)
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade
Begin by combining all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. This includes the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and spices. Whisk together until smooth. This tangy marinade is the secret to flavor-packed beef.
Step 2: Marinate Your London Broil
Place the London broil in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the beef, ensuring it’s completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours, but for best results, let it sit overnight.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Broiler
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or set your broiler to high in the oven. Ensure you have a clean grill grate or broiler pan ready to use.
Step 4: Cook the Meat
Remove the London broil from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. If you like, reserve some marinade for basting during cooking. Place the meat on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness.
Step 5: Rest Before Slicing
When your London broil reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare, remove it from the heat. Rest it for at least 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step is crucial; skip it, and risk a dry steak.
Step 6: Slice Against the Grain
To ensure maximum tenderness, slice the meat against the grain. No one enjoys a chewy piece of beef! The slices should be about ½ inch thick. This method significantly boosts softness, making the beef an absolute delight to enjoy.
Tips & Tricks
- For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a splash of red wine or apple cider vinegar to the marinade for an added layer of taste.
- Let it Marinate Longer: If time allows, let the London broil marinate longer. The deeper the flavor absorption, the better it is.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. Aim for about 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: You can also pan-sear the meat on a stovetop if a grill isn’t available. Just ensure your pan is hot enough.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to switch up the herbs and spices to find the perfect flavor for your palate.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (approx. 4 oz) of cooked London broil (without marinade):
How Can You Store This London Broil Recipe?
After cooking, your London broil can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just ensure it has cooled down first. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the cooked meat. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
If you find some ingredients missing or limited in your pantry, here are a few substitutes:
- Soy Sauce: If you don’t have soy sauce, coconut aminos is a great, slightly sweeter alternative. It maintains the savory depth without the soy.
- Worcestershire Sauce: You can use homemade Worcestershire sauce; combine vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and a dash of hot sauce to recreate the flavor profile.
- Balsamic Vinegar: If balsamic vinegar isn’t available, a good alternative is red wine vinegar. It adds acidity that complements the dish perfectly.
London Broil Recipe
Equipment
- Whisk, broiler
Ingredients
- 2 pounds London broil roast
- ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes optional
- 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic cloves
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herb blend
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for a subtle tang
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade
- Begin by combining all marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. This includes the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and spices. Whisk together until smooth. This tangy marinade is the secret to flavor-packed beef.
Step 2: Marinate Your London Broil
- Place the London broil in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the beef, ensuring it’s completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours, but for best results, let it sit overnight.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill or Broiler
- When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or set your broiler to high in the oven. Ensure you have a clean grill grate or broiler pan ready to use.
Step 4: Cook the Meat
- Remove the London broil from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. If you like, reserve some marinade for basting during cooking. Place the meat on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness.
Step 5: Rest Before Slicing
- When your London broil reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare, remove it from the heat. Rest it for at least 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step is crucial; skip it, and risk a dry steak.
Step 6: Slice Against the Grain
- To ensure maximum tenderness, slice the meat against the grain. No one enjoys a chewy piece of beef! The slices should be about ½ inch thick. This method significantly boosts softness, making the beef an absolute delight to enjoy.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a splash of red wine or apple cider vinegar to the marinade for an added layer of taste.
- Let it Marinate Longer: If time allows, let the London broil marinate longer. The deeper the flavor absorption, the better it is.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. Aim for about 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: You can also pan-sear the meat on a stovetop if a grill isn’t available. Just ensure your pan is hot enough.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to switch up the herbs and spices to find the perfect flavor for your palate.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while London broil typically uses flank, top round, or sirloin, you can use other cuts too. Just remember to slice them against the grain. Cuts like tenderloin or ribeye offer different flavors but can be delicious.
How do I know when my meat is cooked perfectly?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. If you like medium, go for 140°F.
What can I serve with London broil?
London broil pairs well with many sides. Think grilled corn, garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a simple salad. The options are endless!
Can I grill this dish indoors?
If you lack an outdoor grill, using a grill pan can yield excellent results. Just ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated, as grilling tends to produce smoke.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To convert this recipe to gluten-free, swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. Check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free to maintain the dish’s integrity.
Conclusion
Cooking a London broil is more than just making a meal; it’s about creating an experience. From the steps of marinating to that first beautiful slice, every part of this dish can impress. The flavors burst forth, and you might just find it becoming a go-to in your recipe arsenal. So fire up your grill, gather your favorite sides, and enjoy the juicy, savory delight of a perfectly cooked London broil.
The key to a lovely dinner isn’t always about the complexity of the preparation; sometimes, it’s about the simplicity of great flavors and the joy of sharing a delicious meal. Enjoy your culinary adventures!
