London Broil is a popular cut of beef that is known for its rich flavor and tenderness. It is often grilled or broiled, but have you ever considered smoking it? Smoking London Broil can take this already delicious cut of meat to a whole new level, infusing it with smoky flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
What is London Broil?
London Broil refers to a cooking method rather than a specific cut of beef. It typically involves marinating a thick cut of beef and then grilling or broiling it quickly at high heat to achieve medium-rare to medium doneness. The most common cuts used for London Broil are top round or flank steak.
If you’re wondering if London Broil is suitable for smoking, the answer is a resounding yes! While traditionally not smoked, this cooking method can add a whole new dimension of flavor to your London Broil.
Preparing the London Broil for Smoking
Before you start smoking your London Broil, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure the best results:
- Choose the right cut: Opt for a thick cut of London Broil, around 1-1.5 inches thick. This will help prevent overcooking and keep the meat juicy.
- Tenderize the meat: London Broil can sometimes be tough, so tenderizing it before smoking can greatly improve its texture.
You can use a meat tenderizer or marinate it in an acidic mixture like vinegar or lemon juice for a couple of hours.
- Seasoning: Prepare a dry rub or marinade with your favorite herbs and spices. Common choices include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and thyme. Apply the seasoning generously to infuse the flavors into the meat.
Smoking London Broil
Now that your London Broil is prepped and ready, it’s time to fire up the smoker and get cooking! Follow these steps for a perfectly smoked London Broil:
- Preheat your smoker: Set your smoker to a temperature of around 225-250°F (107-121°C). This low and slow cooking method will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat slowly.
- Add smoke: Choose your preferred wood chips or chunks to add smoke flavor to your London Broil. Popular choices include hickory, mesquite, or cherry wood. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker.
- Place the meat: Once the smoker is at temperature and smoke is rolling, place your seasoned London Broil directly on the grates.
If you prefer a more intense smoky flavor, you can sear it briefly on high heat before transferring it to the smoker.
- Cooking time: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your London Broil and desired doneness. As a general guideline, plan for approximately 1 hour of smoking time per inch of thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of around 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium-rare or 145-150°F (63-66°C) for medium.
Serving and Enjoying Your Smoked London Broil
Once your London Broil has reached its desired doneness, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy final product.
Slice the London Broil against the grain into thin strips to ensure maximum tenderness. Serve it as the star of your meal alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a creamy potato salad.
Smoked London Broil is a flavorful and impressive dish that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, smoking London Broil is a fantastic choice that will surely impress.
In conclusion
London Broil is indeed good for smoking. With proper preparation and cooking techniques, you can transform this already delicious cut of beef into a mouthwatering smoky masterpiece. So fire up that smoker and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal!