How to Roast London Broil in the Oven: Easy Steps for Restaurant-Quality Results at Home

London broil, a cut of beef known for its leanness and versatility, is a popular choice for grilling. However, roasting London broil in the oven offers a unique flavor profile and a tender, juicy result. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to roast London broil in the oven, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.

Understanding London Broil

London broil is typically a top round or bottom round cut of beef, known for its lean texture and robust flavor. It’s often sliced thin and marinated before grilling, but roasting offers a different approach, resulting in a more tender and flavorful outcome.

Choosing the Right Cut

Selecting the right cut of London broil is crucial for a successful roast. Look for a cut that is at least 1.5 inches thick and has a good marbling of fat. Avoid cuts that are too thin, as they can become dry during roasting.

Prepping the London Broil

Before roasting, it’s essential to prep the London broil properly. This involves:

• Trimming the Fat: Remove any excess fat from the London broil, leaving a thin layer of fat for flavor and moisture.
• Seasoning: Season the London Broil generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.
• Marinating (Optional): Marinating the London broil can further enhance its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs can work wonders.

The Roasting Process

Now, let’s dive into the roasting process:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sear the London Broil: Heat a large skillet over high heat and sear the London broil for 2-3 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust.
3. Transfer to the Oven: Place the seared London broil in a roasting pan.
4. Roast: Roast the London broil for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare is reached.
5. Rest: Once cooked, 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.

Serving and Enjoying Your Roasted London Broil

Once the London broil has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This helps to ensure a tender and flavorful bite. Serve the roasted London broil with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.

Tips for a Perfect Roast

• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring the London broil is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked London broil can become dry and tough. Be sure to check the internal temperature regularly and remove it from the oven once it reaches your desired level of doneness.
• Rest the Meat: Allowing the London broil to rest after roasting is crucial for preserving its juices and ensuring a tender, flavorful result.

A Culinary Journey: Beyond the Basics

While the basic roasting method is straightforward, you can explore variations to enhance your London broil experience.

Flavor Enhancements:

• Wine Reduction: Deglaze the roasting pan with red wine after removing the London broil. Simmer the wine reduction to create a rich sauce for drizzling over the meat.
• Herb Butter: Create a flavorful herb butter by combining softened butter with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. Spread the herb butter over the London broil before roasting.

Cooking Techniques:

• Reverse Sear: For a more tender and flavorful roast, try reverse searing. Roast the London broil at a lower temperature (275°F) for a longer period, then sear it over high heat before serving.
• Sous Vide: Sous vide cooking offers precise temperature control, resulting in a perfectly cooked London broil. Cook the London broil in a water bath at 130°F (54°C) for 1-2 hours before searing.

The Final Chapter: A Delicious Conclusion

Roasting London broil in the oven is a simple yet rewarding culinary adventure. By following these steps and exploring variations, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use a different type of beef for roasting?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef for roasting, such as ribeye, tenderloin, or chuck roast. However, the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the cut.

2. How can I make sure the London broil is cooked evenly?

To ensure even cooking, make sure the London broil is placed in the center of the roasting pan and that the oven temperature is consistent. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature regularly.

3. What are some good side dishes to serve with roasted London broil?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, asparagus, green beans, and a simple salad are all excellent side dishes for roasted London broil.

4. Can I freeze roasted London broil?

Yes, you can freeze roasted London broil for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

5. What are some alternative marinades for London broil?

There are many different marinades you can use for London broil. Some popular options include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and citrus juice. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite!