How To Cook London Broil In Oven
Introduction
London broil, despite its name, is not actually a specific cut of meat. Rather, it refers to a method of preparing and cooking a relatively lean cut of beef, typically flank steak or top round steak. It gained popularity in the United States as an affordable and flavorful way to enjoy a substantial steak. While grilling is a common method, learning how to cook london broil in oven offers a convenient and consistent alternative, especially during inclement weather or when seeking a more controlled cooking environment.
Ingredients
1 1/2 to 2 pound London broil (flank steak or top round steak) 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Possible Substitutions: Other cuts of beef can be used, but may require adjusted cooking times. Soy sauce can be substituted for Worcestershire sauce. Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried, simply double the quantity.
Preparation Steps
Begin by patting the London broil dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar), minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the London broil in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, turning occasionally. The longer the marinating time, the more flavorful and tender the meat will become. Remove the London broil from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This promotes even cooking.
Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Place an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) on the stovetop over medium-high heat. 2. Remove the London broil from the marinade and discard the marinade. Pat the meat dry again. 3. Once the skillet is very hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil (if needed) and carefully place the London broil in the hot skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms. Searing is essential for locking in the juices and developing a rich flavor. 4. Transfer the skillet with the seared London broil to the preheated oven. 5. Roast in the oven for the following times based on desired doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy): Rare: 125-130F (52-54C) – approximately 5-7 minutes Medium-Rare: 130-135F (54-57C) – approximately 7-9 minutes Medium: 135-140F (57-60C) – approximately 9-11 minutes 6. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the London broil to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. 7. After resting, slice the London broil thinly against the grain. This is a crucial step for ensuring tenderness, as it shortens the muscle fibers.
Serving Suggestions
How to cook london broil in oven yields a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve sliced London broil with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic parmesan fries are also excellent choices. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving the sliced London broil over a bed of rice or quinoa, drizzled with pan juices or a balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added visual appeal and flavor.
Tips and Common Mistakes
A key tip for how to cook london broil in oven is not to overcook it. Aim for medium-rare or medium for the best tenderness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Overcooking will result in a tough and dry steak. Another common mistake is skipping the searing step. Searing is crucial for developing flavor and locking in moisture. Failing to slice the London broil against the grain is another common error that results in a chewier texture. Always slice thinly and perpendicular to the muscle fibers. Finally, remember to let the meat rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Preheating the oven fully ensures even cooking.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning how to cook london broil in oven opens the door to enjoying a delicious and affordable steak in the comfort of home. Its simplicity and customizable flavor profile make it a versatile dish suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. By mastering this technique, one can confidently prepare a flavorful and satisfying meal. Experience the joy of cooking and discover a new culinary favorite. Ready to embark on your culinary journey? Visit foodrecipestory.com for more inspiring cooking guides and delicious recipes.
