How To Grill A London Broil
Grilling a London broil is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and tender steak. The marinating process, the correct grill temperature, and allowing the meat to rest are the secrets to achieving the perfect London Broil. This tender, grilled steak is ideal for family barbecues and special occasions alike.
What is London Broil
London broil is not a specific cut of meat, but rather a cooking method. It involves grilling or broiling a marinated piece of beef and then cutting it across the grain into thin strips. The name “London Broil” does not refer to a particular type of meat, and the city of London is not associated with this dish. Flank steak is the traditional cut used for London broil, known for its moist, tender, and flavorful results.
Best Marinades for London Broil
Marinating the beef before grilling is crucial to tenderize this tougher cut of meat and infuse it with flavor. A balsamic vinegar-based marinade is commonly used to tenderize the meat. You can also use dry seasonings and spices, such as a steak seasoning, or create a simple marinade using ingredients like minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasonings, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
How to Grill London Broil
When grilling a London broil, it’s essential to use quality meat, such as flank or top round steak, and ensure that the steak is less than an inch thick. Marinate the steak for at least one hour to infuse flavors and improve texture. Before cooking, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 500°F, and place the steaks on the grill at a 45° angle to create sear marks. Rotate the steaks to achieve a cross-hatch pattern and cook until the internal temperature reaches the desired doneness. Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting them across the grain.
Steak Temperatures
For the best results, it’s recommended to grill the steak to an internal temperature of 135-140°F for rare, 140°F for medium rare, 150-155°F for medium, and 165°F for well done. It’s important to use a digital meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking temperatures and to prevent the meat from drying out.
How to Slice
Slicing the meat correctly is crucial to render it tender. It’s important to determine the direction of the grain in the meat and cut it across the grain into thin slices. This technique shortens the fibers in each slice, making the meat more tender and easier to chew.
What to Serve with London Broil
A simple meal with a few basic sides complements the delicious flavors of London broil. Consider serving the steak with baked sweet or white potatoes and a side salad, such as a tossed salad or a refreshing Cucumber Mint Watermelon Salad. When choosing a wine to pair with London Broil, opt for a bold red with low tannin levels, such as Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, or Spanish Rioja.
More Grilled Meat Recipes
If you enjoy grilled meats, you may also like these recipes:
- Grilled Filet Mignon with herb butter
- Grilled Lamb Chops flavored with fresh basil and rosemary
- Steak Fajitas from The Anthony Kitchen
- Grilled Pork Tenderloin with tomato corn salsa
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of meat for London Broil?
Yes, while flank steak is the traditional cut used for London broil, you can also use top round steak, skirt steak, or flap steak for delicious results.
2. How long should I marinate the London Broil?
It’s best to marinate the London Broil for at least one hour to allow the flavors to infuse into the meat. Marinating it overnight will further enhance the flavor and tenderness of the steak.
3. What is the recommended internal temperature for grilling London Broil?
For a tender and juicy result, it’s recommended to grill the London Broil to an internal temperature of 135-140°F for rare, 140°F for medium rare, 150-155°F for medium, and 165°F for well done.
4. How should I slice the London Broil for maximum tenderness?
To maximize tenderness, it’s important to slice the London Broil across the grain into thin slices. This technique shortens the meat fibers in each slice, making the meat more tender and easier to chew.
5. What are the best sides to serve with London Broil?
London Broil pairs well with simple sides such as baked sweet or white potatoes and a side salad, such as a tossed salad or a refreshing Cucumber Mint Watermelon Salad.
6. Can I broil the London Broil in the oven if I don’t have access to a grill?
Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can broil the London Broil in the oven. Simply place the marinated steak on a foil-lined baking sheet in the middle of the oven and broil on high until it reaches the desired doneness.