London Broil With Chili Marinade: A Grilling Adventure

The scent of grilling meat always transports me back to summer evenings spent with family. My grandfather, a man of few words but immense grilling skill, would often prepare London broil. The anticipation of that first, perfectly charred bite, infused with smoky goodness, is a memory I cherish. This recipe, with its vibrant chili marinade, takes me back to those days, but with a deliciously spicy twist that I think he would have loved.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes (plus 2-3 hours marinating)
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 1 (2 1/2-3 lb) london broil beef, about 2 inches thick

Marinade

• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 1/4 cup bottled chili sauce
• 1/2 lemon, juice of
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

Equipment Needed

• Large ziploc bag
• Grill
• Tongs

Instructions

1. Begin by placing the london broil beef in a large ziploc bag. This will serve as your marinating vessel, ensuring the flavors penetrate the meat thoroughly.

2. In a separate bowl, prepare the marinade. Combine 1/2 cup of dry red wine, 1/4 cup of bottled chili sauce, the juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined. The marinade should have a vibrant color and a slightly spicy aroma.

3. Pour the marinade over the steak inside the ziploc bag. Ensure the steak is fully submerged in the marinade. Seal the bag tightly, removing as much air as possible.

4. Refrigerate the steak in the marinade for 2-3 hours, turning the bag occasionally. This allows the marinade to infuse the meat, tenderizing it and imparting a rich, complex flavor. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the final product will be.

5. Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before you plan to grill it. This allows the meat to come closer to room temperature, resulting in more even cooking on the grill.

6. Prepare your grill by brushing the rack with a little olive oil. This will prevent the steak from sticking to the grill grates. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

7. Remove the steak from the marinade, reserving a small amount of the marinade in a separate bowl. This reserved marinade will be used to brush the steak during grilling, adding an extra layer of flavor and keeping it moist.

8. Place the steak on the preheated grill. Grill, turning as needed, and brushing with the reserved marinade. Cook until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, it typically takes about 20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking. Medium-rare is around 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, cook to 135-145°F (57-63°C).

9. Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it stand for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

10. After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain of the meat. This will make it easier to chew and further enhance its tenderness.

11. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Marinade Time: While 2-3 hours is sufficient, marinating the steak overnight will result in an even more flavorful and tender result. Just be mindful that extended marinating can sometimes affect the texture slightly.
• Grill Temperature: Maintaining a consistent grill temperature is crucial for even cooking. If your grill has hot spots, rotate the steak occasionally to prevent burning.
• Doneness Check: Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone.
• Searing: For an extra-crispy crust, sear the steak over high heat for a minute or two on each side before moving it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the grilled London broil hot off the grill, sliced thinly against the grain. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. The spicy kick of the chili marinade makes it a fantastic match for creamy side dishes like mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw.

Leftover cooked London broil should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the steak and gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a microwave. Avoid overheating, as this can dry out the meat. The leftover steak can also be used in sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	317.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	122 g	39%
Total Fat	13.6 g	20%
Saturated Fat	5.6 g	28%
Cholesterol	122.8 mg	40%
Sodium	548.7 mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	2.1 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	0.7 g	2%
Protein	40.6 g	81%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the spice level of the marinade. For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chili powder altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Marinade Base: Experiment with different types of red wine in the marinade. A bolder Cabernet Sauvignon will impart a deeper flavor, while a lighter Pinot Noir will be more subtle. You could also use beef broth as a substitute for the red wine.
• Soy Sauce Alternative: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
• Sweetness: Add a touch of sweetness to the marinade with a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: While London broil is ideal for this recipe, you could also use flank steak or skirt steak. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these cuts are typically thinner.

Q: What if I don’t have bottled chili sauce?
A: In a pinch, you can substitute with a mixture of ketchup and chili flakes, adjusting the amount of chili flakes to your desired spice level.

Q: Can I cook this in the oven?
A: Yes, you can broil the steak in the oven. Preheat your broiler and place the steak on a broiler pan. Broil for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Q: How do I know when the grill is hot enough?
A: A simple test is to hold your hand about 5 inches above the grill grate. If you can only hold it there for 3-4 seconds, the grill is at medium-high heat.

Q: Can I freeze the marinated steak?
A: Yes, you can freeze the steak in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Final Thoughts

I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this London broil recipe with chili marinade. It’s a fantastic way to elevate a classic dish with a burst of flavor. Don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe to suit your own tastes and preferences. I’m confident that you’ll enjoy the satisfying combination of tender beef, smoky char, and spicy marinade. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and share it with family and friends – they’ll be impressed! I’d love to hear your feedback, so please share your experiences and any variations you try. Happy grilling!