Any One Can Put The Heat To The Meat But Only A Few Can Barbeque

How to BBQ London Broil Steak: A Complete Guide to Perfect Grilling

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London Broil is a name that sparks curiosity among grill enthusiasts. Is it a cut? A method? A dish? In reality, it’s a combination of all three but primarily, it’s a method of preparation and cooking, typically involving marinated cuts like top round or flank steak. When grilled right, London Broil is flavorful, juicy, and an economical option for feeding a crowd. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to BBQ London Broil steak to perfection from choosing the right cut to slicing it like a pro.

If you’re looking for a lean, budget-friendly steak that delivers bold flavor when grilled, London Broil is your answer. Despite its name, it’s not British and not always a broil it’s often grilled, and that’s where the magic happens. The key lies in preparation, high-heat grilling, and precise slicing.

This guide will walk you through every step: from meat selection to marinating, grilling, and serving. Whether you’re a weekend grillmaster or a curious beginner, this BBQ method will elevate your steak game.

How to BBQ London Broil Steak
How to BBQ London Broil Steak

Choosing the Right Cut

London Broil doesn’t refer to a specific cut of meat it refers to a cooking technique. However, certain cuts are typically used:

  • Top Round: Lean, flavorful, and usually more affordable. It’s the most common London Broil cut.
  • Flank Steak: Slightly more tender with more pronounced grain. Grills quickly and slices beautifully.
  • Sirloin Tip or Shoulder Steak: Less common but suitable when marinated well.

Selection tips:

  • Aim for a 1 to 1.5-inch-thick steak to ensure even cooking and easy slicing.
  • Look for a bright red color with minimal connective tissue.
  • Ask your butcher if they recommend a specific cut labeled “London Broil” but always confirm what part of the cow it comes from.

Preparing the Steak

1. Trim and Tenderize

Trim off any large pieces of fat or silver skin to prevent flare-ups and chewy bites. Because London Broil is a lean cut, it benefits from tenderizing:

  • Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak, breaking down tough muscle fibers.
  • Alternatively, score the surface lightly in a crosshatch pattern to help the marinade penetrate and improve texture.

2. Marinating: The Secret Weapon

Marinating is essential for both flavor and tenderness. Here’s a go-to marinade recipe:

Basic London Broil Marinade:

  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or rosemary
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or lemon juice for added zing

Steps:

  • Mix all ingredients in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
  • Submerge the steak fully.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal.
  • Bring the steak to room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling.

Prepping the Grill

To BBQ a London Broil correctly, the grill must be hot and ready for high-temperature searing.

Gas Grill:

  • Preheat to 450–500°F with all burners on high.
  • Brush the grates clean and oil them lightly with a high-smoke-point oil (like canola or grapeseed).

Charcoal Grill:

  • Arrange coals in a two-zone setup (one side hotter than the other).
  • Let coals ash over until glowing orange.
  • Oil the grates after cleaning.

Whether using gas or charcoal, ensure the grill is blazing hot this helps create that desirable crust and locks in juices.

Grilling the London Broil

Now comes the fun part cooking.

1. Remove and Dry the Steak

  • Take the steak out of the marinade.
  • Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture this promotes better browning and prevents steaming.

2. Sear Over Direct Heat

  • Place the steak over direct high heat.
  • Grill for 4–5 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish, flipping only once.

Use a meat thermometer for best results:

  • Rare: 120–125°F
  • Medium-rare: 130–135°F
  • Medium: 135–145°F
  • Avoid going past medium; the steak can turn tough.

3. Optional: Move to Indirect Heat

If your steak is thicker than 1.5 inches, consider moving it to indirect heat after searing and closing the lid for 3–5 more minutes to finish.

Resting and Slicing

1. Let It Rest

Once grilled, let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil. This step allows juices to redistribute.

2. Slice Against the Grain

The direction of slicing is crucial. London Broil has long muscle fibers, and cutting against the grain ensures tenderness in every bite.

  • Find the grain direction.
  • Use a sharp carving knife to slice thin, diagonal pieces.

This step alone can make or break your final result.

Serving Suggestions

London Broil is incredibly versatile. Here are some tasty ideas for serving:

  • Classic Steak Dinner: Serve with roasted potatoes and grilled asparagus.
  • Chimichurri Style: Drizzle with a vibrant chimichurri sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.
  • Steak Salad: Add slices to a bed of mixed greens with blue cheese, tomatoes, and vinaigrette.
  • Fajitas or Sandwiches: Thin slices are perfect for wraps, subs, or pita pockets.

Don’t forget a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dash of finishing oil just before serving.

Tips and Troubleshooting

Tough Steak?

  • Likely causes: overcooking, slicing with the grain, or insufficient marination.
  • Solution: Use a meat thermometer and always cut against the grain.

Not Enough Flavor?

  • Increase marinade time next round.
  • Add bold ingredients like hot sauce, Dijon mustard, or smoked paprika.

Dry Texture?

  • Make sure not to grill past medium.
  • Let the steak rest before slicing.
  • Don’t skip the pat-dry step before grilling it helps seal moisture inside.

Want More Char?

  • Use cast-iron grill grates or a grill press to intensify sear marks.

Conclusion

BBQing London Broil steak is both a science and an art. When treated with care starting with a good marinade, proper grill heat, and correct slicing it delivers flavor, tenderness, and visual appeal that rivals more expensive steaks.

This cut proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune for an incredible grilled steak. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, mastering London Broil is a great addition to your grilling skills.