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The Ultimate Teriyaki Marinade for London Broil

My earliest memory of London Broil isn’t from a fancy steakhouse, but from my childhood best friend’s backyard barbecue. The smoky aroma of the grill, the laughter echoing in the summer air, and that unforgettable sweet-savory flavor clinging to every bite of the perfectly tender steak. Her dad, a grill master in his own right, always used this amazing teriyaki marinade. It transformed an otherwise simple cut of meat into something truly special – a dish that became synonymous with good times and even better company. Years later, I still use this marinade for its simplicity and incredible flavor.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 8 hours marinating)
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes per side
Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Yield: About 6 servings of London Broil
Dietary Type: Potentially Gluten-Free (see notes), Dairy-Free

Ingredients

1 cup soy sauce
1 cup teriyaki sauce
1 cup Coke (regular)
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, chopped

Ingredient Notes:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the overall saltiness. For a gluten-free version, substitute with tamari.
Teriyaki Sauce: Choose your favorite brand. Some teriyaki sauces are sweeter than others; adjust the amount of Coke accordingly.
Coke: The Coke helps tenderize the meat and adds a subtle sweetness. Regular Coke is recommended; diet versions may not have the same effect.
Jalapeño Pepper: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice preference. Remove the seeds and membrane for a milder flavor.
Ginger: Fresh ginger is preferred for its vibrant flavor. However, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger can be used as a substitute.

Equipment Needed

Large zippered freezer bag or container
Sharp fork
Grill or grill pan
Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl or directly in a large zippered freezer bag, combine the soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, Coke, chopped jalapeño pepper, chopped garlic, and chopped fresh ginger. Whisk or mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
Prepare the London Broil: Place the London Broil on a cutting board. Using a sharp fork, pierce the steak several times on both sides. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat, maximizing flavor and tenderness.
Marinate the London Broil: Place the pierced London Broil into the prepared marinade in the freezer bag or container. If using a bag, press out any excess air and seal tightly. Ensure the marinade evenly coats the steak.
Refrigerate: Refrigerate the marinating London Broil for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This extended marinating time allows the flavors to fully infuse the meat. Flip the bag or container occasionally to ensure even marination.
Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on your stovetop.
Grill the London Broil: Remove the London Broil from the marinade and discard the marinade (do not reuse it). Place the steak on the preheated grill.
Cook the London Broil: Grill the London Broil for 10 to 15 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare (130-135°F), aim for around 12 minutes per side. For medium (135-145°F), cook for approximately 14 minutes per side.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak to check the internal temperature. This is the most accurate way to ensure your London Broil is cooked to your liking.
Rest the London Broil: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the London Broil from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the London Broil thinly against the grain. This is crucial for tenderness, as it shortens the muscle fibers. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Marinating Time is Key: Don’t skimp on the marinating time! Overnight marinating is ideal for maximum flavor penetration and tenderization.
Poking Makes a Difference: Piercing the steak with a fork before marinating significantly improves the marinade’s ability to penetrate the meat.
Don’t Overcook: London Broil is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will result in a tough and dry steak. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
Slicing Against the Grain: This is non-negotiable! Slicing against the grain breaks the long muscle fibers, making the steak much easier to chew.
Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing the steak on it. This will create a nice sear and prevent the steak from sticking.
Marinade Reduction: For an extra burst of flavor, simmer the leftover marinade in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to a thick sauce. Drizzle it over the sliced London Broil before serving. Warning: make sure to boil the marinade for at least 1 minute to kill any bacteria.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the sliced London Broil immediately while it’s still warm and juicy. It pairs well with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, onions), mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

To store leftovers, wrap the sliced London Broil tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, gently warm the sliced London Broil in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the meat. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help retain moisture.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	10g	15%
Saturated Fat	3g	15%
Cholesterol	75mg	25%
Sodium	1500mg	63%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	12g	–
Protein	25g	50%

Variations & Substitutions

Spicier Version: Add more chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Sweeter Version: Increase the amount of Coke or add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade for a sweeter flavor profile.
Citrus Infusion: Add the zest and juice of one orange or lemon to the marinade for a bright and citrusy twist.
Garlic Lover’s Delight: Double the amount of garlic in the marinade for a more intense garlic flavor.
Asian-Inspired: Add a tablespoon of sesame oil and a teaspoon of rice vinegar to the marinade for an even more authentic Asian flavor.
Herbaceous Twist: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade for a more complex flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different cut of meat with this marinade?
A: Yes, this marinade works well with other cuts of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze the marinated London Broil?
A: Absolutely! Marinating in the freezer is a great option. The meat will continue to marinate as it thaws.

Q: How long can I marinate the London Broil?
A: While 8 hours is the minimum, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. Beyond that, the meat may become too soft.

Q: Can I bake the London Broil instead of grilling?
A: Yes, you can bake it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.

Q: Is this marinade gluten-free?
A: Not necessarily. Standard soy sauce and teriyaki sauce contain gluten. Use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) and a gluten-free teriyaki sauce to make it gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This teriyaki marinade is a game-changer for London Broil, transforming a relatively inexpensive cut of meat into a flavorful and tender masterpiece. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or any occasion where you want to impress your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the variations and make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback – and don’t forget a side of grilled asparagus! Cheers to great food and even better company.

Teriyaki Marinade for London Broil Recipe