The Ultimate Guide to Cooking London Broil in the Oven

London Broil is a popular beef cut that many people enjoy. It’s lean, affordable, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. However, cooking it in the oven can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the right techniques. Overcooking it may result in dry and tough meat, while undercooking it may lead to an unpleasant texture. This is why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you cook London Broil in the oven like a pro. In this post, we’ll cover everything from what London Broil is and how to prepare it, to different cooking techniques, and even some serving suggestions. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, read on to discover the best tips and tricks for cooking the perfect London Broil in your oven!

What is London Broil?

London Broil is a popular beef cut that can be cooked in various ways, including the oven and grill. Contrary to what its name suggests, London Broil does not come from London, but it’s believed to have originated in North America.

This flavorful and lean cut typically comes from the flank or round region of the cow. It’s usually marinated before cooking to enhance its taste and tenderness. A marinade is a mixture of herbs, spices, oil, and acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice, which helps to break down the meat fibers and infuse it with flavor.

When selecting the London Broil, it’s essential to choose a fresh and high-quality piece of meat. The meat should be dark red with visible marbling, indicating good texture and flavor.

Marinading the London Broil enhances its flavor and makes it more tender. A typical marinade for London Broil consists of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. The meat should be left to soak in the marinade for at least two hours, but some people prefer to marinate it overnight for optimal flavor.

Overall, London Broil is an excellent choice for those looking for a leaner cut of beef with loads of flavor. By taking care in the selection of the meat and marinating it beforehand, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

Preparing the Meat

Preparing London Broil correctly is crucial for a juicy and flavorful result. Follow these steps to ensure your meat is ready for cooking:

Meat preparation

Start by selecting a quality London Broil cut that is about 1-2 inches thick. Then, use a sharp knife to score both sides of the meat with shallow diagonal cuts. This will help the marinade penetrate the meat and make it more tender.

Marinade

Marinating London Broil is essential for adding flavor and tenderness to the meat. You can either use a store-bought marinade or make your own at home. A simple recipe includes soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Place the marinade and meat in a sealable plastic bag, and marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator, or overnight for best results.

Resting

After removing the meat from the marinade, let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the meat to come to room temperature and cook evenly. Also, make sure to pat dry the meat with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

By properly preparing London Broil, you’ll be on your way to an unforgettable meal. The next step is choosing the right cooking technique – which we’ll cover in the next section.

Cooking Techniques

When it comes to cooking London Broil, there are numerous techniques you can use to create a delicious and tender meal. Some popular methods include oven cooking, broiling, and grilling, each with its own unique benefits.

Oven Cooking

Oven cooking is a great option for those who want to cook their London Broil to perfection without the hassle of grilling or broiling. To cook London Broil in the oven, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Place the meat on a roasting pan and season it with your desired spices and herbs. Cook the meat in the oven for around 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F for medium-rare.

Broiling

Broiling is another popular method for cooking London Broil. It’s a quick and easy way to cook the meat while still achieving that perfect charred exterior. To broil your London Broil, set your oven to broil and place the meat on the top rack of the oven, about 6 inches from the heat source. Cook for around 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness of the meat.

Grilling

Grilling is perhaps the most popular method for cooking London Broil, and it’s easy to see why. Grilling adds a distinct smoky flavor to the meat and can be an excellent way to enjoy the summer weather. To grill your London Broil, start by preheating your grill to high heat. Season the meat with salt, pepper, garlic, and any other desired spices. Cook the meat for around 5-7 minutes per side, depending on how thick it is and how well done you like it. Make sure to let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Temperature

When cooking London Broil, it’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature to ensure that the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare meat, aim for an internal temperature of around 140°F. If you prefer your meat a little more well-done, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the meat and avoid overcooking it.

In summary, cooking London Broil can be done in multiple ways, but oven cooking, broiling, and grilling are some of the most popular techniques. Each method has its own unique benefits, so choose the one that best suits your tastes and preferences. Always keep an eye on the temperature to avoid overcooking the meat and remember to let it rest before serving to ensure maximum juiciness and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

London Broil is a flavorful cut of meat that pairs well with a variety of sides and wine. Whether you prefer classic steakhouse sides or more creative options, there are plenty of choices to complement this delicious dish.

Sides

When it comes to sides, classic steakhouse options like baked potatoes, creamed spinach, and garlic butter mushrooms are always a hit. For a healthier option, consider serving your London Broil with roasted vegetables like asparagus, brussels sprouts, or carrots. Or, for a more unique twist, try pairing it with a fresh summer salad topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.

Wine Pairings

Choosing the right wine to serve with London Broil can take your meal to the next level. Red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Syrah are all great choices thanks to their bold flavors and tannins that complement the richness of the beef. If you prefer white wine, opt for a full-bodied Chardonnay or a dry rosé.

Presentation

Presentation is key when it comes to serving London Broil. To make your dish look as delicious as it tastes, slice the meat against the grain into thin strips and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, and add a pop of color with roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled peppers.

By following these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your guests and create a memorable dining experience.
London Broil is a delicious and affordable cut of beef that can make for a wonderful meal when prepared correctly. While cooking it in the oven may seem intimidating at first, with the right techniques and some practice, you can achieve a perfectly cooked London Broil every time. By following our step-by-step guide on how to cook London Broil in the oven, you will learn how to prepare the meat, choose the best marinade, use appropriate cooking techniques, and serve it with flavorful sides and wine pairings. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this guide will help you impress your guests with a mouthwatering and juicy London Broil. So, get ready to fire up your oven, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy the deliciousness of this classic beef cut. Happy cooking!