London broil is a flavorful, budget-friendly cut of beef that shines when grilled right. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, mastering how to cook London broil on the grill will elevate your BBQ game and impress your guests with juicy, tender steak every time.
What Is London Broil?
Before diving into cooking, it’s key to understand that “London broil” is not a specific cut of meat but a method of preparation. Typically, it involves marinating a lean cut such as top round, flank steak, or skirt steak, then grilling or broiling it and slicing it thinly against the grain for tenderness. Because these cuts are lean and can be tough, marinating and proper cooking are essential to tenderize the meat and lock in flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking London Broil on the Grill
1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor and Tenderness
Marinating is the secret weapon for London broil. A good marinade usually combines olive oil, an acid like red wine vinegar or lemon juice, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, herbs like rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper. The acid helps break down tough fibers, making the meat tender and juicy.
– Combine marinade ingredients in a zip-top bag or shallow dish.
– Add the London broil and massage the marinade into the meat.
– Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally 12-24 hours, but no longer than 2 days to avoid mushiness.
2. Bring the Meat to Room Temperature
Before grilling, let the steak sit out for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This ensures even cooking and better searing.
3. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to high heat, aiming for about 450°F (230°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Sear the London Broil
Place the marinated steak directly on the hot grill grates. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes to lock in the juices and develop a flavorful crust.
5. Lower the Heat and Continue Grilling
After searing, reduce the heat to medium-high or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill. Grill for an additional 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
6. Use a Meat Thermometer
To achieve perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer:
– Rare: 130°F (54°C)
– Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)
– Medium: 145°F (63°C)
– Medium-well: 150°F (66°C)
– Well done: 160°F (71°C)
Remove the steak a few degrees before your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.
7. Rest the Meat
Let the London broil rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. Resting allows juices to redistribute, making the steak more tender and easier to slice.
8. Slice Against the Grain
This is crucial for tenderness. Look for the lines of muscle fibers running through the meat and slice perpendicular to them in thin strips. This shortens the fibers and makes each bite easier to chew.
Tips for the Best Grilled London Broil
– Don’t skip the marinade: It’s essential for tenderizing and flavor.
– Keep an eye on the grill temperature: High heat for searing, then medium-high for cooking through.
– Use butter for extra richness: Adding butter on top while grilling can enhance flavor and juiciness.
– Avoid overcooking: Lean cuts dry out quickly, so aim for medium-rare to medium.
– Experiment with herbs and spices: Garlic powder, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, and smoked paprika work beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
London broil pairs well with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or classic sides like baked potatoes or corn on the cob. For a special touch, drizzle with chimichurri or a balsamic glaze.
Grilling London broil is simple when you follow these steps: marinate well, sear hot, cook to the right temperature, rest, and slice thinly. Enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak that’s perfect for any occasion.