The Best Way to Prepare Grilled London Broil with Irresistible Sauce
Table of Contents
Introduction
Imagine serving a perfectly seared, juicy London Broil with a rich, flavor-packed sauce that leaves your guests in awe. If you’ve ever been disappointed by a tough or bland cut of meat, this guide will transform your cooking skills. Mastering London Broil isn’t just about tossing a steak under the broiler—it’s about selecting the right cut, marinating effectively, and cooking with precision. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to achieve that restaurant-quality steak at home.
What is London Broil?
Understanding the Cut and Cooking Method
London Broil is more of a cooking technique than a specific cut of meat. Traditionally, it involves marinating, broiling, and slicing beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Common Cuts Used: Flank steak or top round steak.
- Cooking Method: High-temperature broiling or grilling.
- Why Marination Matters: Helps break down muscle fibers for a more tender bite.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
Selecting the Perfect Cut of Beef
Your choice of meat directly impacts texture and flavor. Opt for flank steak or top round with a vibrant red hue and good marbling for the best results.
Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Marinade
A well-balanced marinade is the secret to infusing flavor and enhancing tenderness.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits:
- Soy sauce – Boosts umami richness.
- Garlic & Onion – Adds depth and complexity.
- Olive oil – Ensures moisture retention.
- Red wine vinegar – Tenderizes the meat.
- Brown sugar – Balances acidity and aids caramelization.
- Black pepper & Salt – Elevates natural flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Marinating the London Broil
For the most succulent, flavor-packed steak, follow these steps:
- Prepare the marinade: Combine soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices in a bowl.
- Submerge the steak: Place it in a sealable bag and pour the marinade over.
- Refrigerate: Let it soak for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Bring to room temperature: Remove from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking.
Broiling the Steak to Perfection
- Preheat your broiler to high (500°F/260°C).
- Position the steak on a broiling pan about 4 inches from the heat.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Rest the steak for 10 minutes before slicing to preserve juiciness.
Creating a Flavor-Infused Sauce
The Perfect Sauce to Complement London Broil
A rich, savory sauce elevates your dish to gourmet status. Here’s an easy-to-make sauce packed with bold flavors:
Ingredients for the Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
| Beef broth | ½ cup |
| Tomato paste | ¼ cup |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Cooking the Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic until aromatic.
- Add tomato paste, stirring well to combine flavors.
- Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season with black pepper and serve over sliced steak.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
How to Slice and Serve
- Slice against the grain for ultimate tenderness.
- Drizzle the sauce generously over the meat.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Common Questions About London Broil
What is the ideal marination time for London Broil?
To achieve the best depth of flavor and tenderness, let the meat marinate for a minimum of four hours, though an overnight soak yields the most flavorful results.
Can I cook London Broil on the grill instead of the broiler?
Yes! Grill over high heat for 5-7 minutes per side for similar results.
How do I keep my London Broil from being tough?
- Avoid overcooking – aim for medium-rare.
- Rest before slicing – allows juices to redistribute.
- Slice thinly against the grain – for optimal tenderness.
Can I use a different sauce for London Broil?
Absolutely! Experiment with chimichurri, peppercorn sauce, or garlic herb butter.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the tools to perfect your London Broil, it’s time to bring this dish to life in your kitchen. By choosing the right cut, marinating properly, and cooking with precision, you can create a steakhouse-quality meal at home. Try this recipe today and impress your guests with your culinary expertise. Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below!
