How Long to Grill London Broil to Medium Rare?

London broil is a popular grilling choice known for its bold beefy flavor and affordability. Despite its name, London broil is not a specific cut of meat but rather a cooking method typically using top round or flank steak. Since these cuts can be tough, proper grilling and preparation techniques are essential to achieving a tender and flavorful result.

One of the best ways to enjoy London broil is medium-rare, which preserves the meat’s juiciness while ensuring a slight chew. This guide will cover everything you need to know about grilling London broil to medium rare, including cooking times, preparation steps, and expert tips for perfection.

Choosing the Right Cut

When selecting London broil for grilling, the cut of meat plays a crucial role. The most common choices are:

• Top Round: A lean and affordable cut with a mild beefy flavor. It benefits from marination to enhance tenderness.
• Flank Steak: Known for its rich flavor and prominent grain, making it a great candidate for grilling and slicing against the grain.
• Sirloin Tip: Less common but still an option for London broil.

For best results, choose a piece that is 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness ensures an even cook without drying out the meat too quickly.

Preparing the London Broil

Proper preparation is key to maximizing tenderness and flavor. Follow these steps before grilling:

1. Marinate for Flavor and Tenderness

Since London broil comes from a lean cut, marinating helps break down muscle fibers and infuse the meat with flavor. A good marinade should include the following elements:

• Acid (vinegar, lemon juice, or soy sauce) to help tenderize the meat.
• Oil (olive oil or avocado oil) to add moisture.
• Seasonings (garlic, onions, black pepper, and herbs) to enhance taste.

Marinating time: At least 4 hours, but ideally overnight (8-12 hours) for the best results. Avoid marinating beyond 24 hours as the acidity can break down the meat too much.

2. Bring to Room Temperature

Before grilling, take the London broil out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes. This prevents uneven cooking and helps the meat cook faster.

3. Pat Dry for a Better Sear

Excess marinade can prevent the meat from forming a good crust. Use paper towels to pat the steak dry before placing it on the grill.

Grilling Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to high heat (450–500°F). A properly preheated grill ensures a nice sear and caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

2. Cooking Time for Medium Rare

To achieve medium-rare doneness (130-135°F internal temperature):

• Gas or Charcoal Grill: Grill for 5-7 minutes per side (for a 1 to 1.5-inch thick steak).
• Total Grilling Time: About 10-14 minutes depending on thickness and grill heat.
• Check Temperature: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the steak.

3. Flipping & Basting

• Flip Only Once: To retain juices and achieve even cooking, flip the steak just once, halfway through grilling.
• Optional Basting: For extra moisture, baste the steak with melted butter, garlic, or leftover marinade during the last 2 minutes of grilling.

4. Let It Rest

After grilling, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist when sliced.

Slicing and Serving

1. Slice Against the Grain

For maximum tenderness, always slice London broil against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers and makes each bite easier to chew.

2. Serve with Complementary Sides

London broil pairs well with various sides. Some popular options include:

• Grilled Vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini)
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Creamed Spinach
• Fresh Garden Salad

3. Sauce Pairings

Enhance the flavor with a delicious sauce, such as:

• Chimichurri Sauce (parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil)
• Garlic Butter Sauce
• Peppercorn Cream Sauce

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a perfect medium-rare London broil, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Skipping the Marinade – Since London broil is a lean cut, marination is essential for tenderness.
2. Cooking on Low Heat – A high heat sear is necessary for a flavorful crust.
3. Overcooking – London broil can become tough if cooked past medium-rare.
4. Not Resting the Meat – Cutting too soon will cause the juices to escape, making the steak dry.
5. Cutting With the Grain – Always slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Conclusion

Grilling London broil to medium rare is simple with the right technique. By choosing the right cut, marinating it well, cooking at high heat, and slicing it properly, you can achieve a juicy and flavorful steak every time. Remember, the ideal grilling time is 5-7 minutes per side, with an internal temperature of 130-135°F for perfect medium-rare doneness.

With these tips, you’ll master the art of grilling London broil like a pro and impress your guests with a tender, flavorful meal. Happy grilling.