Do You Grill London Broil With Lid Open or Closed?

By Alice Nichols

Grilling is a popular cooking technique that enhances the flavors of meat in a unique way. London broil, a lean cut of beef, is a favorite among grill enthusiasts.

However, there is some confusion about whether to grill London broil with the lid open or closed. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of both approaches.

Grilling with Lid Open

When grilling London broil with the lid open, the meat is exposed to direct heat from the grill. This method is ideal for searing the meat and achieving a nice crust on its surface. It also allows you to keep an eye on the meat and flip it as needed.

However, grilling with the lid open can lead to uneven cooking as hot spots may develop on your grill. Additionally, leaving the lid open can cause flare-ups from dripping fat, which can result in burnt or charred meat.

Grilling with Lid Closed

Grilling London broil with the lid closed creates an oven-like environment within your grill. This allows for even cooking and helps to retain moisture in the meat. It also prevents flare-ups from dripping fat as it vaporizes inside your grill.

However, grilling with the lid closed may not achieve that desired sear or crust on your meat’s surface. This method is better suited for thicker cuts of meat that require longer cooking times.

So which method should you choose?

It ultimately depends on your personal preference and what you’re looking to achieve with your grilled London broil. If you’re aiming for a nice crust on your meat’s surface and don’t mind keeping an eye out for flare-ups, grilling with the lid open is ideal.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for even cooking throughout your London broil while retaining its moisture content, then grilling with the lid closed may be more suitable.

Tips for Grilling London Broil

  • Marinate your London broil for at least 2 hours before grilling to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
  • Preheat your grill to high heat before grilling the meat.
  • For a medium-rare London broil, grill the meat for 6-8 minutes per side.
  • Let the meat rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to settle.

In conclusion, whether you choose to grill your London broil with the lid open or closed depends on what you’re aiming to achieve. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s up to you to decide which one works best for your grilling needs.