Herb-Rubbed London Broil: A Taste of Home
The aroma alone is enough to transport me back to childhood summers. I can almost feel the late afternoon sun warming my face as my dad, a true grill master, prepared London Broil. The sizzle of the meat, the fragrant herbs filling the air, and the promise of a satisfying family meal—it’s a memory etched in my heart. Even now, decades later, this dish brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia to my table. And while my dad preferred the grill, this recipe works beautifully under the broiler, making it perfect for any time of year.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20-22 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Ingredients
- 1 (2 1/2 lb) london broil beef, about 1 1/2 inches thick
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (kosher preferred)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ground pepper
Equipment Needed
- Small mixing bowl
- Broiling pan or baking sheet with rack
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the london broil under cold water and patting it completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a proper sear and prevents steaming.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary, 1 tablespoon of dried marjoram, and 1 tablespoon of dried thyme.
- Using your fingertips, crush the dried herbs together until they are finely crumbled. This releases their essential oils, maximizing their flavor impact on the beef.
- Stir in the 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1 1/2 teaspoons of fresh ground pepper to the herb mixture.
- Generously rub both sides of the london broil with the herb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Pat the herbs onto the meat to help them adhere.
- Position the oven rack so that the top of the steak will be about 1/2 inch from the heating element. Preheat the broiler to high.
- Place the herb-rubbed london broil on a broiling pan or a baking sheet fitted with a rack.
- Broil for 5 minutes for rare meat, or 6 minutes for medium-rare. Keep a close eye on the steak to prevent burning. The internal temperature for rare is 125-130°F, and for medium-rare it’s 130-140°F.
- Carefully turn the steak and broil for another 5 minutes for rare, or 6 minutes for medium-rare, depending on your desired doneness.
- Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the london broil thinly across the grain. This is essential for tenderness, as it shortens the muscle fibers.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Herb Infusion: For an even deeper flavor, you can prepare the herb rub several hours in advance and let the london broil marinate in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring the steak to room temperature for about 30 minutes before broiling to ensure even cooking.
- Checking Doneness: A meat thermometer is your best friend for achieving the perfect level of doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone.
- Broiler Power: Broilers can vary in intensity. Watch the steak carefully and adjust the broiling time accordingly. If it’s browning too quickly, lower the oven rack slightly.
- Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting period! This is crucial for a juicy and tender result. The internal temperature will continue to rise slightly during resting.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve the herb-rubbed london broil immediately after slicing. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like asparagus, potatoes, or bell peppers. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette is also a fantastic accompaniment.
Leftover sliced london broil can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or enjoy it cold in sandwiches or salads. Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the meat.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 448.4 kcal | N/A |
| Calories from Fat | N/A | 41% |
| Total Fat | 20.6 g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 8.6 g | 42% |
| Cholesterol | 184.3 mg | 61% |
| Sodium | 1026.7 mg | 42% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 2 g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% |
| Sugars | 0 g | 0% |
| Protein | 60.4 g | 120% |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Variations & Substitutions
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb rub for a touch of heat.
- Garlic Infusion: Mince a clove or two of garlic and add it to the herb mixture for extra flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute them for the dried herbs. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.
- Marinade Boost: Before applying the herb rub, marinate the London Broil in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: While London Broil is ideal, you could substitute flank steak or skirt steak. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Q: How do I prevent the steak from drying out?
A: Don’t overcook it! Use a meat thermometer and remove the steak from the oven when it reaches your desired internal temperature. Letting it rest is also crucial.
Q: Can I cook this on the grill instead of broiling?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the steak for the same amount of time as broiling, flipping halfway through.
Q: What if I don’t have all the dried herbs listed?
A: Feel free to adjust the herb combination to your liking. Italian seasoning can be a good substitute, or just use what you have on hand.
Q: Why is it important to slice the steak against the grain?
A: Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak much more tender and easier to chew.
Final Thoughts
This Herb-Rubbed London Broil is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and cherished memories. I encourage you to try it, experiment with your favorite herbs, and make it your own. Share it with loved ones, and let the aroma fill your home with warmth and deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment with your variations or any questions you might have. Bon appétit!