Welcome, barbecue enthusiasts! If you're eager to elevate your grilling skills by learning how to cook a London broil on a gas grill, then you're in for a treat. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to ensure your London's Broil is succulent, flavorful, and grilled to perfection. We'll explore the nuances of selecting the best cut of meat, the importance of marinating, and the artistry of grilling to achieve that perfect charred crust while maintaining juicy tenderness inside.

What is London Broil?

Before diving into how to cook a London broil on a gas grill, let's understand what London Broil actually is. Despite what the name suggests, it's not a specific cut of meat, nor is it inherently a British dish. In the United States, London Broil generally refers to a cooking method used for tougher cuts of beef, such as flank steak, top round, or skirt steak. The meat is marinated, grilled, and then sliced thinly against the grain. This technique tenderizes the beef and enhances its natural flavors. By the end of this article, you will not only know how to cook a London broil on a gas grill but also appreciate its culinary significance.

Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of London Broil (top round, flank steak, or skirt steak)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt to taste

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

The success of any great London Broil starts with selecting the right cut of beef. The most common cuts used for London Broil are flank steak, top round, and skirt steak. Each of these cuts has its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Flank steak, known for its rich flavor, is lean with a slightly coarse texture. Top round is a bit more tender and versatile, making it an ideal choice for this dish. Skirt steak, on the other hand, is highly flavorful and well-marbled, but it can be a bit tougher to chew.

When you're at the butcher or supermarket, look for a piece that is bright red, with minimal fat and sinew. The meat should have a uniform thickness, ideally about 1 to 1.5 inches, to ensure even cooking. If possible, consult with your butcher to get the freshest cut available. Remember, the quality of the meat directly impacts the final dish, so choose wisely.

Another important tip is to bring your steak to room temperature before grilling. This helps in achieving an even cook. Simply take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to start grilling.

Marinating: The Secret to Tender and Flavorful London Broil

Marinating is one of the key steps in learning how to cook a London broil on a gas grill. The marinade not only infuses the meat with rich flavors but also helps in tenderizing tougher cuts. A good marinade contains a balance of acid, oil, and seasoning. The acid (such as vinegar or citrus juice) breaks down the muscle fibers, making the steak more tender, while the oil helps in retaining moisture and adding richness. Seasonings and herbs add depth and complexity to the meat.

In this recipe, we will use a simple yet flavorful marinade:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• Salt to taste

To make the marinade, simply mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Place your steak in a large resealable plastic bag, pour the marinade over it, and seal the bag. Make sure the steak is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even marination.

Setting Up Your Gas Grill

Before you can learn how to cook a London broil on a gas grill, it's crucial to understand the setup of your gas grill. A two-zone fire is ideal for this cooking method. This means you have one side of the grill on high heat (direct grilling) and the other side on medium or low heat (indirect grilling).

First, clean the grates with a quality grill cleaner. Preheat your grill on high, with all burners on for at least 15 minutes. Once it's heated, use a grill brush to scrape off any remaining residue. Then, oil the grates using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent the meat from sticking. Reducing sticking is key to achieving those beautiful grill marks and preventing tears in the meat.

Grilling Your London Broil

Now comes the heart of this article, where we finally discuss how to cook a London broil on a gas grill. Start by removing the steak from the marinade and patting it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear because a wet steak will steam rather than sear.

Place the steak on the high-heat side of the grill, directly over the flame. Close the lid and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak. You should see beautiful grill marks forming. If you observe the steak is charring too quickly, move it to the cooler side of the grill, and finish cooking with indirect heat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 130F for medium-rare, 140F for medium, and 150F for medium-well. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the grill.

Once your steak has reached the desired doneness, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Slicing and Serving Your London Broil

The final step in mastering how to cook a London broil on a gas grill is slicing and serving the meat properly. Using a sharp knife, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers, which shortens them and makes the meat easier to chew.

Serve your London Broil with your favorite side dishes. Classic accompaniments include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. If you're looking for side dish inspiration, check out how to cook eggplant on griddle or the delicious liver and bacon casserole recipes. The savory flavors of the grilled steak pair beautifully with a wide range of sides, so feel free to get creative.

For added flair, consider drizzling some chimichurri sauce or a balsamic glaze over the steak. These toppings add a burst of fresh flavor that complements the richness of the meat perfectly.

Cleaning Up

After enjoying your delicious London Broil, it's time to clean up your cooking tools properly. Cleaning your grill immediately after use will make it easier to maintain and will extend its life. Use a high-quality gas grill cleaner to remove any grease and food residue. For the knife and cutting board, wash them with warm soapy water and dry them thoroughly. To keep your cutting board in top condition, apply cutting board oil regularly.

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Conclusion

Learning how to cook a London broil on a gas grill is a rewarding experience that will impress your friends and family. It's a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion, from casual barbecues to elegant dinners. With the right cut of meat, a flavorful marinade, and expert grilling techniques, you can achieve a London Broil that's tender, juicy, and full of flavor. So, fire up your gas grill and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying grilling experiences out there.