London broil, a flavorful cut of beef, often gets a bad rap for being tough. But with the right cooking strategy, you can transform this relatively inexpensive cut into a juicy, tender, and delicious meal. This guide provides a practical, oven-based approach to cooking London broil that guarantees success.
Understanding London Broil: Key to Success
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's understand why London broil sometimes ends up tough and how we'll avoid that. London broil is typically cut from the top round or flank steak, muscles that work hard, resulting in naturally tougher fibers. The key to tenderness is marinating and thin slicing against the grain.
Choosing the Right Cut:
While technically any cut labeled "London broil" can work, selecting a top round cut will generally yield better results. Look for a piece of meat that's evenly thick and free from excessive fat.
Preparing Your London Broil for Oven Perfection
This stage is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
The Marinating Magic:
Marinating your London broil for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, is paramount. The marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with incredible flavor. Experiment with various marinades, focusing on acidic ingredients (like lemon juice or red wine vinegar) to break down the tough muscle fibers. Here’s a simple yet effective marinade recipe:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Trimming the Fat:
Trim away any excess fat from the London broil before marinating. This helps prevent the meat from becoming greasy and enhances the overall flavor.
Oven-Roasting Your London Broil: Step-by-Step Guide
Now for the main event! Here's how to oven-roast your London broil for maximum tenderness and flavor:
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or roasting pan.
The Roast:
Place the marinated London broil in the prepared baking dish. Roast for approximately 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Remember, London broil should not be overcooked.
Resting is Key:
Once cooked, remove the London broil from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Slicing Against the Grain: The Final Touch
This crucial step makes all the difference. Always slice your London broil thinly against the grain. This means slicing perpendicular to the muscle fibers, resulting in incredibly tender and easy-to-chew slices.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your London Broil
Serve your perfectly cooked London broil with a variety of sides to create a truly memorable meal. Some popular choices include:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- A simple salad
- Horseradish sauce
Conclusion: Mastering London Broil
With this comprehensive guide, you're well-equipped to conquer the art of cooking London broil in the oven. Remember, the key lies in proper preparation – marinating and slicing against the grain – and precise cooking to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your delicious and tender London broil!
