Olivia Carter
London broil is a popular and delicious dish that can be easily prepared in a slow cooker. This cooking method is perfect for those who prefer a hands-off approach to cooking, allowing the flavors to develop slowly over time. By using a slow cooker, you can create a tender, juicy, and flavorful London broil without much effort.
If you’re not familiar with London broil, it’s a beef dish made from a specific cut of meat called top round steak or flank steak. The name “London broil” actually refers to the cooking method rather than the cut of meat itself. Traditionally, London broil is marinated, grilled or broiled, and then sliced thinly against the grain. However, using a slow cooker offers a more convenient and foolproof way to achieve similar results.
When cooking London broil in a slow cooker, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat and marinate it beforehand to enhance its flavor and tenderness. The slow cooking process allows the meat to absorb the flavors of the marinade and become incredibly tender. Plus, you can add vegetables and spices to the slow cooker to create a flavorful sauce or broth.
So, if you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to cook London broil, grab your slow cooker and follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering and fuss-free dish.
Prepare the London Broil
Before cooking the London broil in a slow cooker, there are a few steps you need to follow to prepare the meat:
- Start by selecting a high-quality London broil cut of meat. Look for a piece that is well marbled and about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick.
- Remove the London broil from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings adhere better.
- Next, use a sharp knife to score the London broil on both sides. Make shallow cuts across the surface of the meat, about 1/4 inch apart. This will help the marinade penetrate the meat and add extra flavor.
- Prepare a marinade or seasoning blend for the London broil. You can use a combination of ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices. Mix the marinade in a small bowl or Ziploc bag.
- Place the London broil in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the meat. Make sure to coat it evenly on both sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and let the London broil marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
By properly preparing the London broil, you will ensure that the flavors are well-infused and that the meat is tender and juicy when cooked in the slow cooker.
Trim the Fat
Before cooking your London broil in the slow cooker, it’s important to trim any excess fat from the meat. Fat can add flavor, but too much can make the dish greasy and heavy. Start by placing the London broil on a cutting board and using a sharp knife to carefully trim away any visible fat. Make sure to remove any large chunks or thick layers, as these can prevent the meat from cooking evenly.
In addition to trimming visible fat, you may also want to score the remaining fat on the surface of the London broil. This involves making shallow cuts across the fat, which helps to prevent the meat from curling up during cooking and allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply. To score the fat, use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern across the surface of the meat.
By taking the time to trim and score the fat on your London broil before cooking it in the slow cooker, you’ll ensure that your dish is flavorful and delicious without being overly greasy. Plus, trimming the fat can help to make the final dish healthier and more enjoyable for everyone.
Season the Meat
Before cooking the London broil in a slow cooker, it is important to season the meat to enhance its flavor. Here are some steps to season the meat properly:
- Start by patting the London broil dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings adhere to the surface of the meat better.
- Next, season the London broil generously with salt and pepper. The salt will not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat.
- You can also add additional seasonings based on your preference. Some common options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Rub the seasonings into the meat, making sure to cover all sides evenly.
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the London broil overnight in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and your choice of herbs and spices.
By properly seasoning the meat, you will ensure that the London broil is packed with flavor when it is cooked in the slow cooker.
Sear the Meat
Before you place the London broil in the slow cooker, it’s important to sear the meat to add depth of flavor and enhance its texture. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat.
While the skillet is heating, pat the London broil dry with a paper towel and season it generously with salt and pepper. The dry surface of the meat will help achieve a nice sear.
Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of oil such as vegetable or canola oil. Carefully place the London broil into the hot skillet, making sure it lays flat. Sear the meat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until you achieve a brown crust.
While searing the meat, avoid moving it too much as it may prevent the development of a good crust. Instead, use tongs to flip the London broil halfway through the searing process.
Once the meat is seared on both sides, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to the slow cooker. The searing process will not only enhance the visual appeal of the London broil but also contribute to its overall flavor and tenderness.
Heat the Pan
Before cooking the London broil in a slow cooker, it is essential to heat the pan. This step helps to sear the meat and lock in the flavors, resulting in a delicious and tender dish.
To heat the pan, place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow it to warm up for a few minutes until it is hot but not smoking.
While the pan is heating, season the London broil with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs of your choice. Rub the seasoning into the meat to ensure it is evenly coated.
Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the seasoned London broil in the hot pan. Be cautious as the pan may sizzle and spatter.
Sear the London broil for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it develops a rich brown crust. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish and contributes to the overall texture.
After searing, transfer the London broil to the slow cooker, along with any other ingredients such as vegetables or broth that you plan to use. The slow cooker will then gently cook the meat over a long period, resulting in a tender and flavorful London broil.
Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on your slow cooker’s settings and the desired level of doneness for your London broil.
Sear the London Broil
Before cooking the London broil in the slow cooker, it’s essential to sear it on high heat. The searing process helps to lock in the juices and enhance the flavors of the meat.
- Start by heating a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Season the London broil with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades.
- Add a small amount of oil to the hot skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
- Carefully place the seasoned London broil in the skillet and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Using tongs, flip the meat and sear it on the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Once both sides are browned, remove the London broil from the skillet and transfer it to the slow cooker.
Searing the London broil before slow cooking will create a delicious caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s an essential step to achieve the best results when cooking London broil in a slow cooker.
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Before you start cooking your London broil in a slow cooker, it’s important to properly prepare the appliance. Follow these steps to ensure you have a clean and ready slow cooker:
- First, make sure your slow cooker is clean and free of any residue from previous cooking.
- If your slow cooker has a removable ceramic insert or liner, remove it and wash it with warm, soapy water. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it before placing it back into the slow cooker.
- If your slow cooker doesn’t have a removable liner, clean the inside of the cooker with warm, soapy water and rinse it well.
Once your slow cooker is clean, it’s time to prepare it for cooking the London broil:
- Place the slow cooker on a stable, heatproof surface, such as a countertop or cutting board.
- Make sure the slow cooker is plugged into a functioning electrical outlet.
- If your recipe calls for any additional ingredients, such as vegetables or liquid, prepare them and have them ready to add to the slow cooker.
Now that your slow cooker is clean and prepped, you’re ready to start cooking your London broil. Follow the recipe instructions for cooking times and temperatures, and enjoy a delicious and tender meal.
Choose the Right Size
When cooking London broil in a slow cooker, it is important to choose the right size of meat for optimum results. The size of the London broil will determine how long it needs to cook and whether it will fit properly in your slow cooker.
London broil typically comes in different sizes, ranging from 1 to 3 pounds. If you choose a smaller piece of meat, it may cook faster and require less time in the slow cooker. On the other hand, a larger piece of meat may take longer to cook and may not fit properly in your slow cooker.
It is recommended to check the capacity of your slow cooker and choose a London broil that will fit comfortably inside. The meat should not be too big or too small for the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and proper heat distribution.
Additionally, consider the number of servings you want to prepare. If you are cooking for a larger group, you may need a bigger London broil or multiple smaller ones. Conversely, if you are cooking for a smaller gathering or just for yourself, a smaller London broil will suffice.
By choosing the right size of London broil for your slow cooker, you can ensure that the meat cooks evenly, fits properly, and results in a delicious and tender dish.
Questions and answers
Can I cook London broil in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook London broil in a slow cooker. It is a great way to cook a tough cut of meat like London broil, as the slow cooking process helps to tenderize the meat and allow the flavors to develop.
How do I cook London broil in a slow cooker?
To cook London broil in a slow cooker, you will need to season the meat with your desired spices and seasonings. Then, place the London broil in the slow cooker and add any vegetables or broth you would like. Cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for about 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
What is the best way to season London broil for slow cooking?
The best way to season London broil for slow cooking is to use a combination of aromatic herbs and spices. Some popular options include garlic, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. You can also add a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite combination!
