What To Know
- Brining the London broil in a salt solution for several hours can also help tenderize the meat.
- This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Now that you have the fundamentals down, here are a few tips to take your London broil grilling to the next level.
London broil, a flavorful and versatile cut of beef, is a popular choice for grilling. It’s a relatively inexpensive cut, but with the right technique, it can become a truly delicious centerpiece for any meal. This guide will walk you through the essential steps of how to grill London broil, ensuring a juicy, tender, and flavorful result.
Choosing the Right Cut
The first step to grilling a great London broil is selecting the right cut. While often called a “steak,” it’s actually a tougher cut of beef, usually from the top round or bottom round. This means that it’s crucial to tenderize the meat before grilling.
- Look for a cut that’s at least 1 inch thick. This will help ensure that the meat cooks evenly.
- Avoid cuts that are too lean. A bit of marbling will add flavor and keep the meat moist.
- Consider using flank steak. While not technically London broil, flank steak is a similar cut that’s often used interchangeably. It’s a bit more flavorful and slightly tougher, but it can be equally delicious when grilled correctly.
Tenderizing Techniques: Getting Ready for the Grill
Before grilling, it’s essential to tenderize the London broil. This will help break down the tough muscle fibers and make the meat more tender and flavorful. Here are a few effective methods:
- Marinating: A flavorful marinade can help tenderize the meat while adding depth of flavor. Choose a marinade that combines acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice with flavorful herbs and spices. Let the meat marinate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight, for optimal results.
- Pounding: Using a meat mallet, gently pound the London broil to even out thickness and break down the muscle fibers. This will help the meat cook more evenly and become more tender.
- Salt Brining: Brining the London broil in a salt solution for several hours can also help tenderize the meat. This technique draws moisture into the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
Prepping the Grill: Setting the Stage for Success
Once your London broil is prepped and ready, it’s time to prepare your grill for the cooking process.
- Clean and Preheat: Start by cleaning your grill grates to remove any debris. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. You can use a grill thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Direct vs. Indirect Heat: For London broil, you’ll want to use direct heat. This means placing the meat directly over the heat source.
Grilling Time: The Art of Cooking London Broil
Now comes the fun part! Here’s how to grill London broil to perfection:
- Place the Meat: Carefully place the London broil onto the hot grill grates. Avoid crowding the grill, allowing space for even heat distribution.
- Sealing: Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms. This process, known as searing, seals in the juices and adds flavor.
- Lower the Heat: After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue grilling, turning every 5-7 minutes. This ensures even cooking without overcooking.
- Checking for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the London broil. Aim for a temperature of 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
- Resting Time: Once the London broil reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Slicing and Serving: Finishing Touches for a Delicious Meal
After resting, it’s time to slice and serve your perfectly grilled London broil.
- Slicing: Slice the London broil thinly, against the grain. This will make the meat easier to chew and more tender.
- Serving: Serve the sliced London broil with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your London Broil Game
Now that you have the fundamentals down, here are a few tips to take your London broil grilling to the next level:
- Experiment with Marinades: Don’t be afraid to try different marinades. A classic marinade might include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic, and pepper. You can also add a touch of sweetness with honey or brown sugar.
- Embrace Herbs and Spices: Add a burst of flavor by incorporating your favorite herbs and spices into your marinade or as a dry rub. Try rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Consider a Glaze: Before removing the London broil from the grill, brush it with a glaze for added flavor and a beautiful finish. A simple glaze can be made with honey, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger.
The Great Finish: A Delicious Conclusion
Grilling London broil is a rewarding experience, offering a delicious meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. By following these steps, you’ll be able to master the art of grilling this versatile cut of beef, creating a tender, flavorful, and memorable dish.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I grill London broil on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills work just as well as charcoal grills for grilling London broil. Just make sure to preheat the grill to the appropriate temperature.
Q: What happens if I overcook London broil?
A: Overcooked London broil will be tough and dry. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Q: Can I freeze London broil before grilling?
A: Yes, you can freeze London broil. Just thaw it completely in the refrigerator before grilling.
Q: What are some other ways to cook London broil besides grilling?
A: London broil can also be cooked in the oven, pan-fried, or slow-cooked in a crockpot.
