The humble London broil, often overlooked for its potential, transforms into a culinary masterpiece when slow-cooked in a Dutch oven. This method yields incredibly tender, flavorful results, far surpassing the tough, chewy texture often associated with quickly seared London broil. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, answering common questions and providing tips for achieving perfection.
What is London Broil?
Before diving into the recipe, let's clarify what London broil actually is. It's a cut of beef, typically from the top round or bottom round, known for its leanness. Because of this leanness, it's crucial to cook it properly to avoid a tough, dry result. The Dutch oven method, with its slow, even cooking, is ideal for achieving tenderness.
Why Cook London Broil in a Dutch Oven?
A Dutch oven provides an ideal environment for cooking London broil. Its heavy construction retains heat exceptionally well, ensuring even cooking throughout the entire cut of meat. This even heat distribution prevents overcooking on the outside while leaving the inside raw. The tight-fitting lid traps moisture, resulting in incredibly juicy and tender meat.
How Long to Cook London Broil in a Dutch Oven?
The cooking time depends on the thickness of your London broil and your desired level of doneness. Generally, a 1.5-inch thick London broil will take approximately 2-2.5 hours at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C). For a thicker cut, you may need to increase the cooking time. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
What Temperature Should London Broil Be Cooked To?
The ideal internal temperature for a medium-rare London broil is 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium is 140-145°F (60-63°C), and well-done is 160°F (71°C) or higher. Remember, the meat will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the oven, so it's best to take it out a few degrees below your target temperature.
London Broil in Dutch Oven Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pound London broil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions:
- Sear the London Broil: Season the London broil generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the London broil on all sides until nicely browned. This step helps to seal in the juices.
- Sauté Aromatics: Remove the London broil from the Dutch oven and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the Dutch oven and sauté until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the Dutch oven. This adds immense flavor to the sauce.
- Slow Cook: Return the London broil to the Dutch oven. Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the Dutch oven tightly and transfer it to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C).
- Cook to Desired Doneness: Cook for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the London broil from the Dutch oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Slice the London broil thinly against the grain.
- Serve: Serve the London broil with the pan juices and your favorite sides.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
While London broil is ideal for this recipe due to its leanness, you can experiment with other cuts like top sirloin or even chuck roast. However, cooking times may need to be adjusted accordingly. Chuck roast, for example, will likely require a longer cooking time due to its higher fat content and connective tissue.
What are the Best Sides for London Broil?
The rich flavor of slow-cooked London broil pairs well with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, and a simple green salad are all excellent choices.
This detailed guide and recipe will help you master the art of cooking London broil in a Dutch oven. Enjoy the tender, flavorful results!
