London Broil: From Broiled to Smokin' - Who Knew?
Let's face it, "London Broil" sounds fancy. Like something served at a restaurant with white tablecloths and waiters in waistcoats. But then you see it at the grocery store – next to the ground beef and definitely not sporting a hefty price tag. Intriguing, right? But can you actually smoke this mystery meat?
The answer, my friend, is a resounding YES! And let me tell you, it's a revelation. We're talking about taking an affordable cut of beef and transforming it into a masterpiece of smoky, juicy deliciousness. Think of it as Cinderella's carriage made entirely of barbecue (minus the pumpkin, hopefully).
Here's the thing: London Broil, also known as top round, is a lean cut. Lean is great for your swimsuit bod, but not always the best for flavor and tenderness. That's where the magic of smoking comes in. Low and slow cooking with a hint of wood smoke infuses the meat with flavor and keeps it moist, resulting in a restaurant-worthy meal without the restaurant bill.
Why Smoke a London Broil? Because You Can!
Sure, you could grill it, pan-fry it, even toss it in a hot air balloon (don't recommend that last one). But smoking unlocks a whole new world of flavor. You get that deep, smoky goodness that just can't be replicated with other cooking methods. Plus, it's a fun way to experiment and feel like a backyard pitmaster.
From Broiler to Smoker: A Few Pointers
Now, before you grab your London Broil and head straight for the smoker, here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- Marinate that bad boy! London Broil benefits greatly from a good marinade. This helps tenderize the meat and adds tons of flavor. Think soy sauce, garlic, Worcestershire sauce – the possibilities are endless (and delicious).
- Smoke it low and slow. We're talking 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit for a few hours. Patience is key here. But hey, that just gives you more time to crack open a beverage and admire your grill mastery.
The Verdict: Smoke Signals Say "Go For It!"
Smoking a London Broil is a fantastic way to elevate this affordable cut to new heights. It's easy, fun, and the results are sure to impress your taste buds (and maybe even your neighbors with the amazing smoky aroma).
So, ditch the pan and fire up the smoker. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you.
Smokin' London Broil FAQ:
How to marinate a London Broil?
There are tons of great marinades out there. A simple combo of soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite herbs is a winner.
How long to smoke a London Broil?
Smoking time depends on the thickness of your cut, but generally, aim for 1.5-2 hours for a medium-rare finish. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
What type of wood chips to use?
Hickory, oak, or mesquite are all good choices for smoking London Broil. Experiment and see what you like best!
Can I smoke a frozen London Broil?
Technically, yes, but it's not recommended. The thawing process can affect the texture of the meat. Thaw your London Broil completely before smoking.
What to serve with smoked London Broil?
Smoked London Broil pairs well with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad. Don't forget a refreshing beverage to quench your thirst!
