The Broiling of the London Broil: A Not-So-Stiff Upper Lip Guide
The London Broil. Sounds fancy, right? Like something served at a gathering of distinguished gentlemen in monocles and top hats. Truth is, it's a cut of beef that's about as fussy as a pair of old jeans. But let's face it, even jeans can be a disaster if you don't know how to wash them. Fear not, my friend! This guide will have you broiling a London Broil like a pro, with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Step 1: The Tender Transformation
Our hero, the London Broil, can be a little on the tough side. But fear not, for we have a secret weapon: the marinade! This magical concoction will not only infuse your meat with flavor, but also break down those tough fibers, leaving you with a London Broil that's as tender as a British nanny's hug (hopefully).
There are a million marinade recipes out there, but here's a simple one to get you started:
- Olive oil: Because fat is flavor, my friend.
- Soy sauce: Adds a salty kick and that umami goodness.
- Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon with a complex flavor profile.
- Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better. Period.
- Herbs and spices: Go wild! Rosemary, thyme, oregano, a sprinkle of chili flakes - the possibilities are endless.
Just toss all these ingredients together, throw your London Broil in for a swim (at least 2 hours, but overnight is best), and let the magic happen.
Step 2: Broil Like There's No Tomorrow
Now that your London Broil is luxuriating in its marinade spa treatment, it's time for the main event: the broiling!
- Preheat your broiler to high. We're talking maximum heat for maximum sear.
- Take your London Broil out of the marinade, and pat it dry. Nobody likes a soggy broil.
- Place it on a baking sheet lined with foil. This will catch any drips and make cleanup a breeze (because we're all about minimal effort here).
- Pop that bad boy under the broiler and keep an eye on it. Cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of your cut, but you're generally looking for 5-7 minutes per side for a medium-rare doneness.
- Here's the important part: Don't walk away! Broiling is a fast and furious affair, and you don't want to end up with a charred offering to the fire gods.
Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, you're aiming for 135°F (57°C).
Step 3: The Rest is History
Once your London Broil is cooked to perfection, take it off the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender experience.
Now, the moment you've all been waiting for: slicing! Remember, with any cut of steak, you want to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. Those little muscle fibers run in a specific direction, and slicing against them will make them shorter and easier to chew.
Serve your London Broil with your favorite sides, and prepare to be showered with compliments! You've just transformed a humble cut of beef into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece.
Broiling FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered (Literally)
How to marinate a London Broil?
Toss your London Broil in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
How long to broil a London Broil?
Cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of your cut, but generally aim for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare.
How to tell when a London Broil is done?
Use a meat thermometer! For medium-rare, you're looking for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
How to slice a London Broil?
Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
How to avoid a dry London Broil?
Don't overcook it! Use a meat thermometer and take it off the heat when it reaches the desired internal temperature. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to
