Grilled London Broil: The Ultimate Guide to Tender Perfection

Grilled London Broil: the very words conjure images of summer barbecues, family gatherings, and the satisfying sizzle of meat hitting hot grates. But this isn’t just any grilled steak; it’s a culinary experience, a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Have you ever bitten into a perfectly cooked London Broil, its surface boasting a beautiful char while the inside remains tender and juicy? If not, prepare to be amazed!

While the exact origins of the name “London Broil” are debated, it’s generally believed to have originated in America, not London, sometime in the early 20th century. The term likely referred to a specific cut of beef, typically flank steak, that was broiled or grilled and then sliced thinly against the grain. This method of preparation, emphasizing tenderness and flavor, quickly gained popularity.

People adore Grilled London Broil for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, especially when marinated beforehand. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a depth of savory goodness. Second, it’s relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu get-togethers. Finally, when cooked correctly and sliced thinly, it offers a delightful combination of textures – a slightly crisp exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth interior. So, let’s dive into the secrets of achieving the perfect Grilled London Broil every single time!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2-3 lb London Broil steak (about 1-1.5 inches thick)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Marinade:

Okay, let’s get started! The key to a truly amazing grilled London Broil is a fantastic marinade. This is where all the flavor comes from, so don’t skimp on the ingredients or the marinating time. Trust me, it’s worth it!

1. Combine the wet ingredients: In a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Make sure everything is nicely combined. The balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that really complements the beef.
2. Add the aromatics and spices: Now, add the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried rosemary, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk everything together until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the marinade. The Dijon mustard helps to emulsify the marinade and adds a subtle tang.
3. Taste and adjust: Give the marinade a quick taste. You can adjust the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking. Remember that the marinade will penetrate the meat, so a little goes a long way.

Marinating the London Broil:

This is the most crucial step! The longer you marinate the London Broil, the more flavorful and tender it will be. I recommend at least 4 hours, but ideally, overnight is best. Don’t rush this process!

1. Place the London Broil in the marinade: Place the London Broil steak in the bowl or resealable bag with the marinade. Make sure the steak is completely submerged in the marinade. If using a bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it.
2. Massage the marinade into the steak: Gently massage the marinade into the steak, ensuring that every surface is coated. This helps the marinade penetrate the meat more effectively.
3. Refrigerate and marinate: Place the marinated steak in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. If marinating for longer than 4 hours, flip the steak occasionally to ensure even marinating. I usually flip it every few hours.
4. Remove from refrigerator: About 30 minutes before grilling, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature. This will help it cook more evenly.

Preparing the Grill:

A hot grill is essential for searing the London Broil and creating a beautiful crust. Whether you’re using a gas grill or a charcoal grill, make sure it’s properly preheated.

1. Clean the grill grates: Before preheating the grill, make sure the grates are clean. Use a grill brush to remove any leftover debris from previous grilling sessions. A clean grill grate will prevent the steak from sticking.
2. Preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to high heat (around 450-500°F or 232-260°C). For a gas grill, simply turn all the burners to high. For a charcoal grill, arrange the coals in a single layer for even heat distribution.
3. Oil the grill grates: Lightly oil the grill grates with cooking oil or a high-heat oil spray. This will further prevent the steak from sticking.

Grilling the London Broil:

Now for the fun part! Grilling the London Broil is quick and easy, but it’s important to pay attention to the internal temperature to avoid overcooking it. We want a nice, juicy, medium-rare to medium steak.

1. Remove the steak from the marinade: Remove the London Broil from the marinade and discard the marinade. Do not reuse the marinade.
2. Pat the steak dry: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This will help it sear properly and develop a nice crust. Excess moisture can prevent browning.
3. Sear the steak: Place the steak on the preheated grill and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms. Don’t move the steak around too much during searing; let it develop a good sear before flipping.
4. Reduce heat and continue grilling: After searing, reduce the heat to medium (around 350-400°F or 177-204°C) and continue grilling for another 4-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bone.
   • For medium-rare (130-135°F or 54-57°C), grill for about 4-6 minutes after searing.
   • For medium (135-145°F or 57-63°C), grill for about 6-8 minutes after searing.
   • For medium-well (145-155°F or 63-68°C), grill for about 8-10 minutes after searing.

   Important: Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the grill, so it’s best to take it off a few degrees before your desired temperature.

Resting and Slicing the London Broil:

Resting the steak is just as important as grilling it! This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. And slicing it correctly is key to maximizing tenderness.

1. Remove the steak from the grill: Once the steak reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and place it on a cutting board.
2. Rest the steak: Tent the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes, or up to 15 minutes. Do not skip this step!
3. Slice against the grain: After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the steak thinly against the grain. The grain refers to the direction of the muscle fibers in the meat. Slicing against the grain shortens these fibers, making the steak more tender and easier to chew. Look closely at the steak to identify the direction of the grain and slice perpendicular to it.
4. Serve and garnish: Arrange the sliced London Broil on a platter and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcook it! London Broil is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will make it tough and dry.
• Use a meat thermometer! This is the best way to ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
• Let it rest! Resting the steak is crucial for tenderness and flavor.
• Slice against the grain! This is the key to making London Broil easy to chew.
• Get creative with sides! London Broil pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This Grilled London Broil recipe isn’t just another piece of meat; it’s a ticket to a flavorful, tender, and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. I truly believe that once you try this method, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation. The combination of the marinade, the searing heat, and the precise cooking time results in a London Broil that’s far from the tough, chewy reputation it sometimes carries. It’s juicy, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s the versatility. This isn’t a one-trick pony. Think about it: you can slice it thinly and serve it over a vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a light and refreshing lunch. Or, pile it high on crusty rolls with caramelized onions and melted provolone for a hearty and satisfying sandwich. And of course, it’s fantastic served alongside classic sides like roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a simple green salad. The possibilities are truly endless!

But wait, there’s more! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Craving a more smoky flavor? Use mesquite wood chips when grilling. Looking for a sweeter profile? A touch of honey or maple syrup in the marinade can do the trick. You could even try marinating it overnight for an even deeper flavor infusion. Don’t be afraid to get creative and adjust the recipe to suit your personal preferences. I’ve even tried adding a splash of bourbon to the marinade for a truly decadent flavor – highly recommended!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

• Salad Sensation: Slice the grilled London Broil thinly and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Sandwich Supreme: Pile the sliced London Broil on crusty rolls with caramelized onions, melted provolone cheese, and a horseradish aioli.
• Classic Combo: Serve the grilled London Broil with roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, and a side of creamy horseradish sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
• Smoky Delight: Use mesquite wood chips when grilling for a smoky flavor.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a sweeter profile.
• Bourbon Infusion: Add a splash of bourbon to the marinade for a rich and complex flavor.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness of a perfectly Grilled London Broil for yourself. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to elevate your grilling game. So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun in the process!

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What sides did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to improve and create even more delicious recipes for you to enjoy. Happy grilling!