London broil, with its lean and flavorful nature, is a fantastic choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. While often grilled, roasting it in the oven offers a hands-off cooking experience with equally delicious results. This guide will walk you through achieving perfectly tender and juicy oven-baked London broil, every time.
Understanding London Broil
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's address what London broil actually is. It's a cut of beef, typically from the top round or sirloin, known for its leanness. Because of this leanness, it's crucial to cook it correctly to prevent it from becoming tough and dry. The key is to marinate it well and use a method that ensures a tender outcome. Oven roasting, paired with the right techniques, achieves this beautifully.
Choosing the Right Cut
Selecting a good quality London broil is the first step towards success. Look for a cut that's evenly colored and firm to the touch. Avoid any cuts with excessive fat or discoloration. A cut that's about 1-1.5 inches thick works best for even cooking in the oven.
Preparing Your London Broil: The Marinade is Key
The marinade is where the magic happens. A good marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with incredible flavor. Here's a simple yet effective marinade recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl or resealable bag.
- Add the London broil and ensure it's fully coated in the marinade.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Oven-Roasting Your London Broil: The Step-by-Step Guide
Equipment:
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the London broil from the marinade. Reserve the marinade.
- Place the London broil in the roasting pan.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Here's a handy guide:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-140°F (54-60°C)
- Medium: 140-150°F (60-66°C)
- Medium-well: 150-160°F (66-71°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C) and above.
- Remove the London broil from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
Slicing and Serving: The Finishing Touch
Once rested, slice the London broil against the grain. This is crucial for tenderness. Thinly sliced, it's perfect for serving with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Roasted potatoes
- Asparagus
- Green beans
- Salad
Tips for the Perfect Oven-Baked London Broil
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the London broil enough space to brown evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures accurate cooking and prevents overcooking.
- Rest the meat: This is essential for juicy and tender results.
- Experiment with marinades: Feel free to adjust the marinade recipe to your liking. Consider adding different herbs, spices, or even a touch of balsamic vinegar.
By following these steps, you’ll master the art of cooking London broil in the oven and impress your family and friends with a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal. Enjoy!
