How to Cook Perfect London Broil: Recipes, Pairings, and History

I. Introduction

If you’re looking for a flavorful, budget-friendly cut of beef to cook at home, London broil is a great option. But what exactly is London broil? Contrary to what some people think, London broil is not a specific cut of beef, but rather a method of preparing a beef steak. Typically, London broil refers to a top round steak that is marinated, broiled or grilled to medium rare, and cut against the grain into thin slices. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to cook the perfect London broil, including step-by-step instructions, nutritional benefits, recipes, history, and wine pairings.

II. Step-by-Step Instructions

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of cooking London broil, let’s take a look at the ingredients list and preparation steps:

Ingredients:

• 1-2 pounds top round steak
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, and black pepper.
2. Place the steak in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal the bag tightly and massage the steak to coat it evenly with the marinade.
4. Refrigerate the steak for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible.
5. When you’re ready to cook the steak, preheat your oven, grill, or broiler to high heat.
6. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
7. Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Grill, broil, or roast the steak to medium rare, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
9. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin slices.

Now that you know the basic steps of cooking London broil, let’s take a closer look at some tips and techniques to help you achieve the perfect result.

Cooking Techniques:

• Marinate the steak overnight or for at least 2 hours to tenderize and flavor the meat.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the steak reaches 135-140°F for medium rare.
• Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain the juices.
• Cut the steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.

Tips to Achieve the Perfect London Broil:

• Choose a top round steak that is at least 1 inch thick to ensure juiciness and tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the steak, as it will become tough and chewy.
• Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor profile.
• Serve the London broil with a sauce or condiment, such as chimichurri or horseradish cream, to complement the flavor of the meat.

III. Nutritional Benefits of London Broil

Beef is a great source of protein, iron, and other essential nutrients, and London broil is no exception.

Nutritional profile of London broil:

• Calories: 245 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Iron: 2.5 mg
• Zinc: 4.4 mg
• B vitamins: B6, B12, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin

Health benefits of cooking London broil:

• Provides a high amount of protein for muscle growth and repair.
• Contains iron and zinc, which are important for immune function, energy production, and healthy red blood cells.
• Supplies B vitamins, which support brain function, metabolism, and cardiovascular health.
• Is a good option for low-carb and high-protein diets.

Comparison with other beef cuts:

• London broil contains less fat than other beef cuts, such as ribeye or T-bone steak, making it a leaner and healthier option.
• It is also less expensive than some premium cuts, yet still offers great flavor and texture.

IV. Recipes with London Broil

Now that you know how to make the classic version of London broil, let’s explore some delicious variations and recipe ideas to try:

Grilled London broil recipe

Grilling London broil gives it a smoky and charred flavor that complements the juicy and tender meat. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1-2 pounds top round steak
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and oregano.
2. Place the steak in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal the bag tightly and massage the steak to coat it evenly with the marinade.
4. Refrigerate the steak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
6. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
7. Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Grill the steak for 6-8 minutes per side for medium rare.
9. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin slices.

Slow-cooked London broil recipe

If you prefer a more tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture, slow-cooking London broil is a great option. Here’s a recipe to try:

Ingredients:

• 1-2 pounds top round steak
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Place the sliced onion in the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and garlic.
4. Pour the sauce over the steak and onion in the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the steak is fork-tender.
6. Remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin slices.

Marinated London broil recipe

Marinating London broil not only adds flavor and tenderness, but also makes it more versatile for different types of dishes. Here’s a recipe for marinated London broil:

Ingredients:

• 1-2 pounds top round steak
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Place the steak in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it.
3. Seal the bag tightly and massage the steak to coat it evenly with the marinade.
4. Refrigerate the steak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
6. Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Grill, broil, or roast the steak to medium rare, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
8. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin slices.

Other recipe suggestions:

• London broil tacos with salsa and guacamole
• London broil stir-fry with vegetables and noodles
• London broil salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette

V. History of London Broil

Although it’s called London broil, the dish actually has American roots. According to some sources, the name “London” was added to make it sound more sophisticated and appealing to British consumers in the 1930s. But the history of London broil goes back even further.

Origin of the dish:

The exact origin of London broil is unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the northeastern United States in the late 19th century. It was likely inspired by similar dishes from Europe, such as Swiss steak and German rouladen, which use thin slices of beef that are marinated and cooked slowly to tenderize them.

Historical background and evolution:

London broil was popularized in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s as a festive dish for family gatherings and backyard barbecues. It was often served with roasted potatoes, green beans, and a bottle of red wine. Over time, different marinades and seasonings were added to the basic recipe, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of American cuisine.

Cultural significance:

London broil has become a staple of American cuisine, representing a versatile and affordable option for home cooks and chefs alike. It is often associated with informal and relaxed dining, such as picnics, potlucks, and outdoor parties.

VI. How to Pair Wine with London Broil

Wine and beef make a classic combination, but pairing the right wine with London broil can enhance the flavor and texture of the meat. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Overview of wine pairing principles:

• Choose a wine that complements the intensity and complexity of the dish.
• Consider the richness, acidity, and tannins of the wine.
• Match the wine to the dominant flavors and seasonings of the dish.

Types of wines that complement London broil:

• Red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, or Zinfandel, that have enough body, tannins, and fruitiness to stand up to the meat.
• Full-bodied white wines, such as Chardonnay, that have a hint of oak and vanilla to balance the marinade and spices.

Style and origin of the wines:

• For a classic pairing, go for a California Cabernet Sauvignon, which has a bold and fruity profile with notes of blackcurrant, cherry, and vanilla.
• If you prefer a more subtle and nuanced wine, try a French Syrah, which is rich and spicy with hints of pepper, leather, and blackberry.
• For a white wine option, go for an oaked Chardonnay from Australia or California, which has a creamy and buttery texture with flavors of tropical fruit and caramel.

Tasting notes and recommendations:

• Try pairing the London broil with a 2016 Stags’ Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, which has a bold and complex profile with layers of dark chocolate, plum, and oak.
• If you prefer a more affordable option, go for a 2018 Bogle Vineyards Essential Red blend, which is a flavorful and juicy wine with aromas of blackberry, raspberry, and vanilla.
• If you want to explore a white wine pairing, try a 2017 Dierberg Chardonnay from Santa Maria Valley, which has a crisp and refreshing acidity with flavors of lemon, apple, and butterscotch.

VII. Conclusion

London broil is a delicious and easy-to-prepare option for beef lovers, offering versatility, affordability, and nutrition. By following the step-by-step instructions, you can cook the perfect London broil every time, experiment with different marinades and seasonings, and pair it with your favorite wine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, London broil is a crowd-pleaser that should be on your menu.