Conquering the Crock Pot: A Guide to London Broil Bliss (Without Setting Off the Smoke Alarm)
Let's face it, grilling can be a drag. You gotta wrestle with the propane tank, hope the coals cooperate, and pray the wind doesn't turn your perfectly seasoned London broil into a charcoal briquette. But fear not, my fellow carnivores, there's a hero in your kitchen ready to save the day (and your dinner): the almighty crock pot!
Crock Pot London Broil: Basically Beef on Autopilot
This method is about as easy as forgetting your phone charger at work (we've all been there). Here's the gist:
- Befriend your London Broil: This lean cut of beef loves a good marinade. Give it a soak in your favorite concoction (soy sauce, garlic, herbs, etc.) for at least 30 minutes, or get fancy and marinate overnight.
- Sear with Caution (Optional): While not strictly necessary, searing the meat in a hot pan for a minute or two on each side can add a nice depth of flavor. Just be sure your crock pot is big enough to accommodate your pan acrobatics.
- Liquid Love: Pour in some beef broth, wine, or even a combo of both. This liquid gold will become your flavorful cooking bath and help prevent your London broil from turning into shoe leather.
- Veggie Bonanza (Optional): Toss in some potatoes, carrots, or any other root vegetables your heart desires. They'll soak up all the delicious juices while they cook.
- Slow and Steady Wins the Race: Set your crock pot to low and let it work its magic for 8-10 hours. If you're short on time, high for 4-6 hours will also do the trick.
- Carving Nirvana: Once that timer dings, let the meat rest for a good 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful masterpiece.
The Gravy Whisperer (Optional):
Those leftover juices in the crock pot are pure gold! Here's how to turn them into a decadent gravy:
- Separate the Fat: Let the juices cool slightly, then skim off any excess fat that rises to the surface.
- The Floury Friend: In a small bowl, whisk together some cornstarch and water to make a slurry.
- Thicken Up: Slowly whisk the slurry into the remaining juices over medium heat on the stovetop. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened to your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
Pile that tender, flavorful London broil high on a plate and smother it with gravy (if you went down that delicious path). Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a simple side salad.
FAQ:
- How to marinate London broil? There are endless possibilities! A simple marinade of soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs is a great starting point.
- How long to cook London broil in a crock pot? For the most tender results, cook on low for 8-10 hours. If you're short on time, high for 4-6 hours will work in a pinch.
- Do I have to sear the London broil? Nope! Searing is optional and adds flavor, but it's not essential for a delicious crock pot London broil.
- What vegetables can I add to the crock pot? The possibilities are endless! Potatoes, carrots, onions, mushrooms, and even pearl onions are all great choices.
- Can I shred the London broil? Absolutely! Shredded London broil makes for fantastic sandwiches, tacos, or even a deconstructed Philly cheesesteak.
