Taming the London Broil: How to Grill This Lean, Mean Steak-Machine on Your Gas Grill
The London Broil. A cut of beef that's as mysterious as it is delicious. It can be a grill master's dream or a backyard barbecue's worst nightmare (cue the dry, hockey-puck situation). But fear not, my fellow grill enthusiasts! With a little know-how and a dash of humor (because seriously, who takes grilling that seriously?), we can turn this lean steak into a juicy masterpiece.
Step 1: The Tenderizer Tango (or, Weaponizing Flavor)
London Broil isn't exactly known for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. That's where the marinade comes in, folks. Think of it as a flavor bath for your meat. Here are your options:
- The Classic - Soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and your favorite herbs. This marinade is a safe bet, and it's easy to whip up with pantry staples.
- The Citrus Twist - Flank steak's citrusy cousin? Marinate your London Broil in orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, and some chili flakes for a zesty kick.
- The Asian Adventure - Feeling fancy? Try a marinade with soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and a touch of honey. You'll be saying "ching chong" (note: please don't actually say that) to a delicious dinner in no time.
Pro-Tip: Marinate your London Broil for at least an hour, or ideally, overnight. The longer it hangs out in that flavor bath, the better.
Step 2: Grill Prep: Firing Up the Flavor Furnace
Now that your London Broil is marinating like a champ, let's get this grill party started!
- Pre-heat your grill to medium-high heat. We're aiming for that nice sear on the outside.
- Brush the grates with a little oil to prevent sticking. Nobody likes a stuck steak (except maybe vegetarians... but let's not go there).
Step 3: The Sizzle Showdown: Taming the Flame
- Take your London Broil out of the marinade and pat it dry with a paper towel. Excess moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
- Place the steak on the hot grill. Now comes the fun part (cue dramatic music)!
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side. This will lock in those delicious juices.
- Move the steak to a cooler area of the grill to finish cooking. We don't want to turn our London Broil into jerky.
Here's the important part: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak.
- For medium-rare (the ideal temperature), aim for 130°F.
- For medium, you're looking at 140°F.
Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender experience.
Step 4: Slicing and Serving: The Grand Finale
- Slice your London Broil against the grain for maximum tenderness. Thin slices are your friend here.
- Serve your masterpiece with your favorite grilled veggies, rice, or a side salad.
- Bask in the glory of your grilling prowess (and maybe share some credit with this handy guide).
Remember: Grilling is an art, not a science. Don't be afraid to experiment with different marinades and cooking times to find what works best for you. Now get out there and grill something amazing!
Bonus Round: How-To FAQs
How to marinate London Broil quickly?
In a pinch, a 30-minute marinade can still infuse some flavor. Just make sure your marinade is acidic (like with citrus juice) to help tenderize the meat.
How to tell if my London Broil is done?
Use a meat thermometer! Internal temperature is the most reliable way to gauge doneness.
How to keep my London Broil from drying out?
Don't overcook it! Stick to the recommended cooking times and use a marinade to add moisture.
How to reheat leftover London Broil?
Slice leftover London Broil thinly and heat it gently in a skillet with a little oil or butter.
How to impress my friends with my grilling skills?
Master the art of the London Broil, and they'll be calling
