Grilling London broil is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and budget-friendly cut of beef. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, mastering this technique will elevate your grilling game.
You don’t need to be a grill master to get tender juicy results. With the right preparation and cooking tips, you can turn this lean cut into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for slicing and sharing. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a simple yet delicious grilled London broil.
Choosing the Right London Broil Cut
Selecting the right London broil cut ensures your grilled dish achieves the best flavor and tenderness. Focus on understanding the cut differences and picking high-quality meat.
Understanding London Broil vs. Other Cuts
London broil refers to a cooking method, often using flank steak, top round, or coulotte. Flank steak has pronounced grain and lean texture. Top round offers a thicker and slightly tougher profile but absorbs marinades well. Coulotte, a cap of the sirloin, provides more marbling for juicier results. Each cut needs proper marinating and slicing against the grain to maximize tenderness. Recognize that London broil differs from prime cuts like ribeye or filet mignon in texture and fat content.
Tips for Selecting Quality Meat
Choose cuts with a deep red color and fine grain indicating freshness. Look for firm texture and minimal visible fat or silver skin, which can interfere with grilling. Select pieces 1 to 1.5 inches thick for even cooking. If buying pre-packaged meat, check the sell-by date and avoid excessive liquid in the packaging. Local butcher shops often offer fresher options and can provide guidance on specific cuts suited for London broil grilling.
Preparing London Broil for Grilling
Preparing London broil properly ensures enhanced flavor and optimal tenderness. Follow these steps to maximize your grilling results.
Marinating for Flavor and Tenderness
Choose a marinade with acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or wine to break down tough muscle fibers. Combine these with oil, herbs, and spices such as garlic, rosemary, or black pepper for balanced flavor. Marinate London broil for 4 to 24 hours in the refrigerator, depending on your desired intensity; longer times increase tenderness but may alter texture. Use a non-reactive container or a resealable plastic bag to prevent metallic taste and ensure even coating.
Pre-Grilling Preparation Steps
Pat the meat dry with paper towels to promote proper searing and browning on the grill. Bring London broil to room temperature by resting it for 30 to 60 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking. Season the meat lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper just before placing it on the grill, complementing the marinade without overpowering. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F, to create a good crust while keeping the interior juicy. Oil the grill grates or brush the meat lightly with oil to reduce sticking during cooking.
How to Grill London Broil Perfectly
Grilling London broil demands precise temperature control and timing to lock in juices and develop a rich crust. Master these techniques to achieve a tender, flavorful steak every time.
Setting Up the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (204°C), to ensure a proper sear. Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them with a high smoke-point oil like canola or grapeseed to prevent sticking. Arrange the coals or burners for indirect heat on one side if using a charcoal or gas grill, allowing for both searing and slower cooking zones.
Ideal Grilling Time and Temperature
Grill the London broil for 4 to 6 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness, reaching an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) as measured by a meat thermometer. Avoid cooking beyond medium doneness to preserve tenderness. Rest the steak for 5 to 10 minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute.
Tips for Flipping and Cooking Evenly
Flip the steak only once to develop a caramelized crust. Use tongs to avoid piercing the meat, which causes juices to escape. Rotate the steak 45 degrees halfway through each side’s cooking time for cross-hatch grill marks and even cooking. Monitor heat closely to prevent flare-ups and uneven charring.
Resting and Slicing London Broil
Resting London broil after grilling preserves its juiciness and enhances tenderness. Proper slicing unlocks the best texture and flavor.
Importance of Resting Meat
Resting lets juices redistribute evenly throughout the steak. Rest London broil for 10 to 15 minutes on a warm plate loosely covered with foil. Avoid cutting immediately to prevent juice loss and dry meat.
Best Practices for Slicing Against the Grain
Slicing against the grain shortens muscle fibers, resulting in a tender bite. Identify the grain by spotting the direction of the long muscle lines. Cut perpendicular to these lines in thin strips, about ¼ inch thick, for optimal tenderness. Use a sharp carving knife for clean, precise cuts.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Pair grilled London broil with fresh, crisp salads like arugula or mixed greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich, beefy flavor. Serve roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful and nutritious side. Complement the steak with classic starches like garlic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or herb-seasoned quinoa to add texture and substance.
Offer sauces like chimichurri, horseradish cream, or a red wine reduction to enhance the meat’s flavor without overpowering it. Choose robust red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec that match the steak’s boldness. For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon or iced tea infused with fresh herbs to refresh the palate.
Incorporate bread choices like crusty baguettes or garlic knots for added satisfaction. Present the London broil sliced thinly to facilitate sharing and highlight its tenderness when combined with these complementary sides and beverages.
Conclusion
Grilling London broil is a great way to enjoy a flavorful and affordable cut of beef without much hassle. With the right preparation and attention to detail, you can easily serve up a tender and juicy steak that impresses every time.
By mastering the techniques of marinating, grilling, resting, and slicing, you’ll unlock the full potential of this versatile cut. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special gathering, your grilled London broil will be a standout dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.