London Broil Recipe: A Juicy and Flavorful Steak
London broil is a popular cut of beef known for its leanness and ability to produce a flavorful, tender steak when cooked correctly. While it's often mistakenly associated with a specific cooking method, it's actually a cut of beef that benefits from marinating and quick searing, followed by a rest to achieve optimal tenderness. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious London broil that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2-pound London broil steak: Look for a relatively even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Provides moisture and helps with browning.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the savory flavors.
- Salt to taste: Season generously.
Preparing the London Broil:
Marinating for Maximum Flavor:
- Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the London broil steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it's coated evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
Cooking the Perfect London Broil:
- Preheat Your Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat.
- Sear the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a beautiful crust.
- Roast to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (use a meat thermometer). For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Rest is Key: Remove the steak from the oven 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.
Slicing and Serving:
- Against the Grain: Once rested, slice the London broil against the grain (perpendicular to the muscle fibers) into thin slices. This will make the steak incredibly tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious London broil immediately. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips for Success:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked London broil can be tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you achieve your desired level of doneness.
- Proper Slicing: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness.
- Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to experiment with different marinades to find your favorite flavor combinations.
This recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful London broil every time. Enjoy!
