For years, London Broil held a somewhat intimidating presence in my kitchen. I loved the idea of a lean, flavorful cut of beef, perfect for slicing and serving a crowd, but often found myself battling with toughness and a lack of robust flavor. It wasn’t until I truly embraced the power of a good marinade that London Broil transformed from a dinner dilemma into a family favorite. This isn’t just any marinade; this is my London Broil marinade – a carefully crafted blend of ingredients that tenderizes the meat to buttery perfection while infusing it with a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. I remember the first time I nailed it – the satisfying sizzle as it hit the grill, the intoxicating aroma filling the backyard, and the collective “mmmms” around the table as everyone took their first bite. The London Broil was incredibly tender, bursting with savory notes, and honestly, it tasted like something you’d get at a high-end steakhouse. Since then, this marinade has become my secret weapon, my foolproof method for turning this affordable cut of beef into a show-stopping meal. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue, broiling in the oven on a chilly evening, or pan-searing for a quick weeknight dinner, this London Broil marinade will elevate your dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Prepare to be amazed by the simple ingredients and transformative power of this recipe – your taste buds are in for a treat!
The Secret Weapon: Ingredients for an Unforgettable London Broil Marinade
The magic behind a truly exceptional London Broil starts long before it hits the grill or oven – it begins with the marinade. A well-crafted marinade is not just about adding flavor; it’s about tenderizing the meat, enhancing its natural taste, and creating a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. Let’s delve into the key ingredients that make this London Broil marinade a game-changer:
- Olive Oil: The foundation of our marinade, olive oil serves multiple crucial roles. First and foremost, it acts as a carrier for all the other flavorful ingredients, helping them penetrate deep into the meat fibers. Olive oil also contributes moisture, preventing the London Broil from drying out during cooking. Beyond its functional role, olive oil imparts a subtle richness and fruity note that enhances the overall flavor profile. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and quality, but regular olive oil will also work effectively.
- Soy Sauce (Low Sodium Preferred): Soy sauce is a powerhouse ingredient in marinades, bringing a trifecta of benefits: saltiness, umami, and tenderization. The salt content helps to season the meat from within, while the umami, that savory “fifth taste,” adds depth and complexity. Soy sauce also contains enzymes that help to break down muscle fibers, contributing to a more tender London Broil. Opting for low sodium soy sauce allows you to control the overall saltiness of the marinade and adjust it to your preference, especially important as other ingredients may also contribute salt.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This often-underestimated sauce is a secret weapon for adding layers of savory flavor to marinades. Worcestershire sauce is a complex concoction of vinegar, molasses, tamarind, anchovies, and various spices. It contributes a tangy, slightly sweet, and intensely umami flavor that complements beef beautifully. It also adds a depth of flavor that is difficult to achieve with single ingredients, creating a more nuanced and sophisticated marinade.
- Lemon Juice (Freshly Squeezed): Acid is a critical component of any good marinade, and fresh lemon juice is an excellent choice for London Broil. The acidity in lemon juice helps to tenderize the meat by breaking down tough muscle proteins. It also brightens the overall flavor profile, cutting through the richness of the beef and other savory ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled for its brighter, cleaner flavor.
- Garlic (Freshly Minced): Garlic is a culinary staple for a reason – its pungent, aromatic flavor is incredibly versatile and complements a wide range of dishes, including beef. Freshly minced garlic adds a robust, savory punch to the marinade, infusing the London Broil with its characteristic garlicky goodness. Mincing the garlic ensures that its flavor is released effectively and distributed evenly throughout the marinade.
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard is more than just a condiment; it’s a flavor enhancer and emulsifier in marinades. Its tangy, slightly spicy flavor adds another layer of complexity to the marinade, complementing the savory and acidic notes. Dijon mustard also acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind the oil and vinegar-based components of the marinade together, creating a more cohesive and flavorful mixture that coats the London Broil effectively.
- Brown Sugar (Light or Dark): A touch of sweetness is essential to balance the savory and acidic elements in this marinade. Brown sugar, with its molasses content, not only adds sweetness but also contributes a subtle caramel-like depth of flavor. It helps to create a beautiful caramelized crust on the London Broil during cooking, adding both visual appeal and textural contrast. Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably, with dark brown sugar offering a slightly richer molasses flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary (Chopped): Fresh herbs elevate any marinade, and rosemary is a particularly excellent choice for beef. Its piney, aromatic, and slightly resinous flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of London Broil. Fresh rosemary adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the savory flavors and creates a more balanced and complex marinade. Chopping the rosemary releases its essential oils, maximizing its flavor infusion into the meat.
- Black Pepper (Freshly Ground): Freshly ground black pepper is a fundamental seasoning that enhances the overall flavor profile of the marinade. Its pungent, slightly spicy bite complements the other ingredients and adds a subtle warmth. Freshly ground pepper is always preferred over pre-ground pepper for its more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
Here is a detailed list of ingredients for this exceptional London Broil Marinade:
- ½ cup Olive Oil
- ⅓ cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire Sauce
- ¼ cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar, packed (light or dark)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Crafting the Perfect Marinade: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this London Broil marinade is incredibly simple and requires minimal effort. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a flavor-packed concoction ready to transform your London Broil into a culinary masterpiece. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, low sodium soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisking ensures that these liquid ingredients are well combined, creating a homogenous base for the marinade.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Add the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar to the bowl. These ingredients bring the savory, tangy, and sweet notes that are crucial for the marinade’s flavor complexity.
- Incorporate Herbs and Spices: Stir in the finely chopped fresh rosemary and freshly ground black pepper. These aromatic elements add the final layer of flavor, bringing a herbaceous and slightly spicy dimension to the marinade.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until they are fully combined and the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. The marinade should be emulsified to some degree, meaning the oil and vinegar-based liquids are blended together rather than separated. A well-emulsified marinade coats the meat more evenly and effectively.
- Taste and Adjust (Optional): At this stage, it’s a good practice to taste the marinade. You can adjust the flavors to your preference. If you prefer a saltier marinade, add a pinch more soy sauce. For a sweeter marinade, add a bit more brown sugar. If you like more acidity, add a squeeze more lemon juice. Remember that the flavors will intensify as the marinade infuses the meat.
- Ready to Marinate: Your London Broil marinade is now ready to use! Proceed to the next section for instructions on marinating your London Broil.
Tips for Marinade Success:
- Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary for the most vibrant and flavorful marinade.
- Mince Garlic Finely: Finely minced garlic releases its flavor more effectively than roughly chopped or sliced garlic.
- Chop Rosemary Finely: Finely chopped rosemary ensures even distribution and flavor infusion throughout the marinade.
- Dissolve Brown Sugar: Whisk thoroughly to ensure the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. This prevents grainy texture in the marinade and helps it coat the meat smoothly.
- Use a Non-Reactive Bowl: Use a glass, ceramic, or stainless steel bowl to mix your marinade. Avoid aluminum bowls, as the acidity in the marinade can react with aluminum and impart a metallic taste.
Unlock the Flavor: Marinating and Cooking Your London Broil
Now that you have your incredible London Broil marinade ready, it’s time to put it to work! Marinating is the key to transforming London Broil from potentially tough to wonderfully tender and flavorful. Follow these steps for marinating and cooking your London Broil to perfection:
- Prepare the London Broil: Place your London Broil steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. If using a dish, ensure it is non-reactive (glass, ceramic, or stainless steel).
- Pour Marinade Over Meat: Pour the prepared London Broil marinade over the steak, ensuring that it is evenly coated on all sides. If using a plastic bag, seal the bag tightly, pressing out as much air as possible. If using a dish, turn the steak to coat both sides.
- Marinate in the Refrigerator: Refrigerate the London Broil and let it marinate for at least 4 hours, and ideally for 8-12 hours for optimal tenderness and flavor. For the best results, marinate overnight (up to 24 hours). Longer marinating times allow the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender London Broil. Do not marinate for longer than 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the meat fibers too much, potentially leading to a mushy texture.
- Turn Occasionally (If Marinating for Longer Periods): If marinating for longer than 4 hours, turn the London Broil in the marinade bag or dish every few hours to ensure even marinating on all sides.
- Remove from Refrigerator and Let Rest: About 30 minutes before you plan to cook the London Broil, remove it from the refrigerator. Letting the meat rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly. Discard the marinade after removing the steak; do not reuse it.
- Choose Your Cooking Method: London Broil is versatile and can be cooked using various methods. Here are some popular options:
- Grilling: Grilling imparts a delicious smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the London Broil for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness.
- Broiling (Oven): Broiling is a great option for indoor cooking and achieving a nice sear. Preheat your broiler to high. Place the London Broil on a broiler pan and broil for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Keep a close eye on it as broilers can cook quickly.
- Pan-Searing (Stovetop): Pan-searing is ideal for achieving a beautiful crust and even cooking. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or high-heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Sear the London Broil for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your London Broil is cooked to your desired doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding bone. Here are the target internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
- Medium-Well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-Done: 145°F+ (63°C+)
- Rest Before Slicing: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the London Broil from the grill, broiler, or skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Slice Against the Grain: London Broil is known for its distinct grain. To maximize tenderness, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This means slicing perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender and easier to chew.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your perfectly marinated and cooked London Broil is now ready to be served! Refer to the “Serving Suggestions” section for delicious ideas on how to enjoy your culinary creation.
Nutrition Facts: What’s in Your London Broil Marinade (and the Meat!)
Understanding the nutritional content of your London Broil marinade and the meat itself can be helpful for making informed dietary choices. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of marinated and cooked London Broil (assuming a 4-ounce serving of cooked London Broil, and marinade contribution is per serving portion):
- Servings: Marinade recipe is enough for approximately 4-6 servings of London Broil (depending on size of steak). Nutritional information is per estimated serving of cooked London Broil.
- Serving Size: Estimated 4 ounces (113 grams) cooked London Broil (approximate).
Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (cooked marinated London Broil):
- Calories: 250-350 calories (Varies depending on leanness of London Broil and cooking method)
- Fat: 10-20 grams (Varies depending on leanness of London Broil)
- Saturated Fat: 3-7 grams (Varies depending on leanness of London Broil)
- Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
- Sodium: 300-500 mg (Varies depending on soy sauce used and salt in marinade)
- Carbohydrates: 5-8 grams (Primarily from brown sugar in marinade)
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sugars: 4-7 grams (Primarily from brown sugar in marinade)
- Protein: 30-40 grams
Important Notes on Nutrition:
- Estimates: These are estimated values and can vary based on the specific cut of London Broil, ingredient brands, cooking method, and portion sizes.
- Lean Protein Source: London Broil is generally considered a lean cut of beef, providing a good source of protein with a moderate amount of fat, especially if excess fat is trimmed before cooking.
- Marinade Contribution: The marinade contributes a relatively small amount of calories, fat, carbohydrates, and sodium per serving, as much of it is discarded after marinating. However, the nutritional values provided do account for the marinade absorbed by the meat.
- Sodium Content: The sodium content can be moderate due to the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Using low sodium soy sauce helps to manage sodium levels.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Vitamins and Minerals: London Broil is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
Tips for a Healthier London Broil:
- Trim Excess Fat: Trim any visible excess fat from the London Broil before marinating to reduce fat content.
- Use Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Opt for low sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
- Limit Added Salt: Be mindful of added salt and adjust to taste, especially if using regular soy sauce.
- Serve with Vegetables: Pair your London Broil with plenty of vegetables, such as grilled asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a fresh salad, to create a balanced and nutritious meal.
- Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie and fat intake. A 4-ounce serving of cooked London Broil is a recommended portion size for a lean protein source.
Preparation Time: From Marinade to Mouthwatering London Broil
One of the appealing aspects of this London Broil marinade is that while it imparts incredible flavor, it doesn’t require hours of active preparation. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation time:
- Marinade Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, mincing garlic, chopping rosemary, measuring, and whisking the marinade together).
- Marinating Time: 4-24 hours (Inactive time in the refrigerator).
- Cooking Time: 8-15 minutes (Depending on cooking method and desired doneness).
- Resting Time: 10 minutes (Inactive time after cooking).
- Total Active Time: 20-30 minutes (Time spent actively preparing and cooking).
- Total Time (Including Marinating): 4 hours 30 minutes to 24 hours 30 minutes (Depending on marinating duration).
Time-Saving Tips:
- Prep Marinade Ahead: You can prepare the marinade up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is helpful if you are meal prepping or want to get ahead on dinner preparations.
- Quick Marinating (Minimum 4 Hours): While longer marinating times are ideal, even a 4-hour marinade will significantly improve the flavor and tenderness of your London Broil if you are short on time.
- Efficient Cooking Methods: Grilling or broiling are relatively quick cooking methods for London Broil, making it a fast option for dinner once marinated.
- Multi-task: While the London Broil is marinating, you can prepare side dishes, salads, or other components of your meal to maximize efficiency.
Despite the longer marinating time, the active preparation and cooking time for this London Broil recipe are quite manageable, making it a delicious yet practical choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Serving Suggestions: Compliments to Your Perfectly Marinated London Broil
Your perfectly marinated and cooked London Broil is a star in its own right, but the right serving suggestions can elevate it to a truly memorable meal. Here are some delicious ways to serve and complement your London Broil:
Classic Side Dishes:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers are excellent accompaniments. Their slightly caramelized sweetness and tender texture pair beautifully with the savory London Broil.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes are a comforting and classic side that complements beef perfectly.
- Creamy Polenta: Smooth and cheesy polenta provides a delightful textural contrast to the sliced London Broil and absorbs the delicious juices.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob, especially during summer months, is a simple and flavorful side dish that pairs well with grilled London Broil.
- Green Beans Almondine: Buttery green beans with toasted almonds add a touch of elegance and freshness.
Fresh Salads:
- Caesar Salad: A crisp and classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the London Broil.
- Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A peppery arugula salad with a bright lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan cheese is a light and flavorful option.
- Caprese Salad: A simple Caprese salad with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze is a fresh and vibrant side dish, especially during summer.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb dressing offers a healthy and flavorful side dish with Mediterranean flair.
Sauces and Toppings:
- Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant and herbaceous chimichurri sauce, made with parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, is a fantastic topping for London Broil, adding freshness and acidity.
- Garlic Herb Butter: A simple compound butter made with butter, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary melts beautifully over warm London Broil, adding richness and flavor.
- Red Wine Reduction Sauce: A classic red wine reduction sauce adds elegance and depth of flavor, complementing the beef beautifully.
- Horseradish Cream Sauce: A creamy horseradish sauce provides a tangy and slightly spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the London Broil.
Meal Combinations:
- London Broil Steak Salad: Slice the marinated and cooked London Broil and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad vegetables and dressing for a hearty and flavorful steak salad.
- London Broil Sandwiches or Wraps: Slice the London Broil thinly and use it to make delicious sandwiches or wraps with your favorite toppings, such as caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, provolone cheese, and a horseradish aioli.
- London Broil Fajitas or Tacos: Slice the London Broil into strips and use it for fajitas or tacos, served with tortillas, sautéed peppers and onions, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Serving Tips:
- Slice Thinly: Remember to slice the London Broil thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Serve Warm: London Broil is best served warm, immediately after resting and slicing.
- Garnish: Garnish your plated London Broil with fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs or parsley for visual appeal.
- Offer Variety: When serving for a crowd, offer a variety of side dishes and sauces to cater to different tastes and preferences.
Expert Tips for London Broil Marinade Mastery (5 Tips)
To consistently achieve London Broil marinade perfection and impress your family and friends, consider these five expert tips:
- Pound the London Broil (Optional but Recommended): While this marinade is excellent at tenderizing, pounding the London Broil to an even thickness before marinating can further enhance tenderness and promote more even cooking. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak to a uniform thickness of about ½ to ¾ inch. Be careful not to pound too forcefully, as you don’t want to shred the meat fibers.
- Score the Surface (Optional): Scoring the surface of the London Broil in a shallow crosshatch pattern before marinating can help the marinade penetrate even deeper into the meat and further tenderize it. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts (about ¼ inch deep) across the surface of the steak in a diamond pattern.
- Marinate in a Resealable Bag (For Even Coating): Marinating London Broil in a resealable plastic bag is often more effective than using a dish because it ensures that the marinade fully surrounds the meat on all sides. When using a bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing to maximize contact between the marinade and the steak.
- Don’t Over-Marinate (Especially with Acidic Marinades): While marinating is essential for London Broil, over-marinating, especially with highly acidic marinades like this one, can actually make the meat mushy or break down the proteins too much. Stick to the recommended marinating times (4-24 hours) and avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours.
- Bring to Room Temperature Before Cooking (For Even Cooking): Allowing the marinated London Broil to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking helps the meat cook more evenly. Cold meat straight from the refrigerator can cook unevenly, resulting in a well-done exterior and a raw or undercooked interior. Bringing it closer to room temperature helps ensure a more consistent level of doneness throughout the steak.
By incorporating these expert tips into your London Broil marinade routine, you’ll consistently achieve incredibly tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked London Broil that will be the highlight of any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your London Broil Marinade Queries Answered (FAQ)
Do you have lingering questions about London Broil marinade or how to best utilize this recipe? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you confidently master this delicious dish:
Q1: Can I use this marinade on other cuts of beef besides London Broil?
A: Yes, absolutely! While specifically designed for London Broil, this marinade is versatile and works wonderfully on other lean cuts of beef that benefit from tenderizing and flavor enhancement. Excellent alternatives include:
- Flank Steak: Flank steak is very similar to London Broil and marinates beautifully with this recipe.
- Skirt Steak: Skirt steak is another flavorful and lean cut that becomes incredibly tender and delicious after marinating.
- Tri-Tip Steak: Tri-tip, while slightly more tender than London Broil to begin with, still benefits from the flavor boost of this marinade.
- Sirloin Steak (Top Sirloin): A leaner sirloin steak can also be tenderized and flavored effectively with this marinade.
Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the thickness and cut of beef you choose.
Q2: Can I make the marinade ahead of time and store it?
A: Yes, you can definitely make the London Broil marinade ahead of time! In fact, it’s a great time-saving tip. The marinade can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is perfect for meal prepping or getting ahead on dinner preparations. Just give it a good whisk before using it to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
Q3: What if I don’t have fresh rosemary? Can I use dried rosemary?
A: While fresh rosemary is preferred for its brighter and more aromatic flavor, you can substitute dried rosemary if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary in place of 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary. Keep in mind that dried herbs are generally more concentrated in flavor than fresh herbs, so use a smaller amount. If using dried rosemary, you can also “bloom” it slightly by rubbing it between your fingers before adding it to the marinade to help release its aroma.
Q4: Can I broil or grill frozen London Broil after marinating?
A: It is generally not recommended to broil or grill London Broil directly from frozen, even after marinating. For best results, always thaw your London Broil completely before marinating and cooking. Cooking frozen meat can result in uneven cooking, with the outside becoming overcooked and the inside remaining raw or undercooked. Thawing ensures that the meat cooks evenly and allows the marinade to penetrate effectively.
Q5: What are some good side dishes to serve with London Broil besides vegetables?
A: While vegetables are excellent side dishes for London Broil, there are many other delicious options to create a complete and satisfying meal. Consider these alternatives:
- Grain-Based Sides: Quinoa, couscous, rice pilaf, or orzo pasta salad are all excellent grain-based sides that pair well with London Broil.
- Potato Dishes: Beyond mashed potatoes, consider roasted potatoes, scalloped potatoes, potato salad, or French fries.
- Legume-Based Sides: Baked beans, black beans and rice, or a hearty lentil salad can provide a satisfying and protein-rich side dish.
- Pasta Salads: A cold pasta salad with pesto, vegetables, or a creamy dressing can be a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment, especially during warmer months.
- Bread: Crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls are always welcome sides for soaking up the delicious juices from the London Broil.
Choose side dishes that complement the savory and robust flavors of the London Broil and create a balanced and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!
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London Broil Marinade Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup Olive Oil
- ⅓ cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire Sauce
- ¼ cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar, packed (light or dark)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, low sodium soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisking ensures that these liquid ingredients are well combined, creating a homogenous base for the marinade.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Add the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar to the bowl. These ingredients bring the savory, tangy, and sweet notes that are crucial for the marinade’s flavor complexity.
- Incorporate Herbs and Spices: Stir in the finely chopped fresh rosemary and freshly ground black pepper. These aromatic elements add the final layer of flavor, bringing a herbaceous and slightly spicy dimension to the marinade.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until they are fully combined and the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. The marinade should be emulsified to some degree, meaning the oil and vinegar-based liquids are blended together rather than separated. A well-emulsified marinade coats the meat more evenly and effectively.
- Taste and Adjust (Optional): At this stage, it’s a good practice to taste the marinade. You can adjust the flavors to your preference. If you prefer a saltier marinade, add a pinch more soy sauce. For a sweeter marinade, add a bit more brown sugar. If you like more acidity, add a squeeze more lemon juice. Remember that the flavors will intensify as the marinade infuses the meat.
- Ready to Marinate: Your London Broil marinade is now ready to use! Proceed to the next section for instructions on marinating your London Broil.
Tips for Marinade Success:
- Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary for the most vibrant and flavorful marinade.
- Mince Garlic Finely: Finely minced garlic releases its flavor more effectively than roughly chopped or sliced garlic.
- Chop Rosemary Finely: Finely chopped rosemary ensures even distribution and flavor infusion throughout the marinade.
- Dissolve Brown Sugar: Whisk thoroughly to ensure the brown sugar is mostly dissolved. This prevents grainy texture in the marinade and helps it coat the meat smoothly.
- Use a Non-Reactive Bowl: Use a glass, ceramic, or stainless steel bowl to mix your marinade. Avoid aluminum bowls, as the acidity in the marinade can react with aluminum and impart a metallic taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 250-350
- Sugar: 4-7 grams
- Sodium: 300-500 mg
- Fat: 10-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-8 grams
- Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Protein: 30-40 grams
- Cholesterol: 70-90 mg





