How To Cook London Broil In An Oven
Introduction
London broil, while the name might evoke images of a fancy British roast, actually refers to a cut of beef typically flank steak, but sometimes top round that’s marinated and then cooked at high heat. The term “London broil” is actually more common in North America, and the cooking method allows for a relatively inexpensive cut of meat to be transformed into a flavorful and tender meal. The oven provides a convenient and controlled environment for achieving that perfect sear and internal temperature.
Ingredients
London Broil (Flank Steak or Top Round): 2-3 pounds, approximately 1 inch thick. Marinade: 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended) 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Optional: Salt, to taste (add after cooking, as soy sauce is salty) Variations: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or substituting lemon juice for vinegar for a brighter flavor.
Preparation Steps
First, trim any excess fat or silver skin from the London broil. This helps ensure even cooking and avoids tough, chewy bits. Next, prepare the marinade by whisking together all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Place the London broil in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, turning occasionally to ensure even marinating. Longer marinating times result in a more flavorful and tender result. Bring the London broil to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking, which helps it cook more evenly.
Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Position an oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler and preheat the broiler to high. 2. Prepare the Pan: Line a broiler pan with foil for easy cleanup. Place the marinated London broil on the prepared broiler pan. 3. Broil: Broil the London broil for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130-135F). For medium (135-145F), broil for 7-9 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and the strength of the broiler. 4. Rest: Remove the London broil from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. 5. Slice: Slice the London broil thinly against the grain. This is crucial for tenderness, as it shortens the muscle fibers. Slicing with the grain will result in a tough, chewy steak.
Serving Suggestions
London broil is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main course with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Mashed potatoes or a simple salad also make excellent accompaniments. Consider topping the sliced London broil with a chimichurri sauce, a garlic herb butter, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s also fantastic in sandwiches, salads, or tacos. For a more elegant presentation, fan the sliced steak on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Don’t Overcook: Overcooking is the biggest mistake when cooking London broil. Use a meat thermometer and err on the side of undercooking, as the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly while resting. Marinate Long Enough: The marinade is key to both flavor and tenderness. Don’t skimp on the marinating time. Slice Against the Grain: This is non-negotiable for a tender result. Identify the direction of the muscle fibers and slice perpendicular to them. Avoid Salting Before Cooking: The soy sauce in the marinade is already salty. Adding more salt before cooking can result in an overly salty dish. Taste and adjust seasoning after cooking. Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from running out when you slice the steak. This results in a juicier, more flavorful steak.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning how to cook London broil in an oven is a fantastic way to elevate a relatively inexpensive cut of beef into a delicious and satisfying meal. Its bold flavor and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser, and the oven method offers a convenient and reliable way to achieve perfect results every time. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a more impressive dish for entertaining, London broil is a great option. So, give it a try at home and discover the joy of cooking this classic dish! Explore more cooking guides and delicious recipes at foodrecipestory.com.
