How to Cook London Broil: A Guide to a Delicious and Tender Steak
London broil, despite its name, isn't actually broiled. This flavorful cut, typically from the top round or sirloin, needs a specific approach to achieve tenderness. This guide will walk you through cooking London broil to perfection, resulting in a juicy and delicious meal. We'll cover everything from preparation to serving suggestions, ensuring you become a London broil master.
Understanding London Broil: Cut & Preparation
London broil is a lean cut of beef, meaning it can become tough if overcooked. The key is to marinate it properly and then quickly sear it to achieve a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender.
Choosing the Right Cut:
- Top Round: This is the most common cut used for London broil. It's lean and flavorful, but requires careful cooking to avoid dryness.
- Sirloin: Sirloin also works well, offering a slightly more tender option than top round.
Preparing the London Broil:
- Trim Excess Fat: Remove any visible excess fat from the beef. Leaving a thin layer is okay for flavor, but excessive fat will render and make the meat greasy.
- Even Thickness: If your London broil isn't of uniform thickness, use a sharp knife to even it out. This ensures even cooking.
- Marinating (Crucial!): Marinating is the key to tenderness. A good marinade will break down the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and flavorful. Experiment with different marinades, focusing on acidic ingredients like lemon juice, red wine vinegar, or Worcestershire sauce, which help tenderize the meat. A minimum of 2-4 hours is recommended, but overnight is even better.
Cooking Methods for Perfect London Broil
Several methods work well for cooking London broil. Here are two popular options:
Method 1: Pan-Searing
- Pat Dry: Before searing, thoroughly pat the marinated London broil dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice crust.
- High Heat: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. Add a high-smoke-point oil like canola or avocado oil.
- Sear: Sear the London broil for 2-3 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust.
- Reduce Heat: Reduce heat to medium and cook for another 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Remember, lean cuts like London broil are best served slightly undercooked to avoid dryness.
- Rest: Once cooked, let the London broil rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Method 2: Broiling (Despite the Name!)
While often called "London broil," broiling isn't the most effective method for this cut of meat due to the potential for uneven cooking. However, if you choose this method:
- Preheat your broiler.
- Place the marinated London broil on a broiler pan.
- Broil for 3-5 minutes per side, keeping a close eye to avoid overcooking.
Slicing and Serving Your London Broil
Once rested, slice the London broil against the grain. This is crucial for maximum tenderness. Slice thinly, about 1/4 inch thick.
Serving Suggestions:
London broil pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider these options:
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or potatoes.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavor of the beef.
Tips for London Broil Success:
- Don't overcook! Use a meat thermometer to ensure your London broil is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let it rest! Allowing the meat to rest is crucial for tenderness.
- Experiment with marinades! Get creative and try different flavor combinations.
Following these steps will guarantee you a delicious and tender London broil. Enjoy!
