Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that’s both impressive and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This smoked London broil recipe delivers a juicy, tender, and smoky masterpiece that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Forget complicated techniques – this is delicious food made simple.
Ingredients:
- 2-pound London broil, trimmed of excess fat
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Your favorite wood chips (e.g., hickory, mesquite, applewood) - about 1 cup
Equipment:
- Smoker (pellet, charcoal, or electric)
- Meat thermometer
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the London Broil
Start by trimming any excess fat from the London broil. This helps to ensure even cooking and prevents flare-ups in the smoker. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear.
Step 2: Make the Rub
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Season the Steak
Generously rub the spice mixture all over the London broil, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step significantly improves the overall taste.
Step 4: Prepare Your Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your chosen wood chips according to your smoker's instructions. Maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process.
Step 5: Smoke the London Broil
Place the seasoned London broil on the smoker grate. Smoke for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy – this is essential for perfect results.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once the London broil reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Slice the London broil thinly, against the grain. This is vital for tenderness. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, smoky London broil!
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the smoker: Ensure there's enough space between the steak and other food items for even smoking.
- Monitor the temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steak accurately.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your smoker's temperature.
- Experiment with wood chips: Different wood chips will impart different flavors. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Variations:
- Add herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the rub for an extra layer of flavor.
- Citrus zest: Add some lemon or orange zest to the rub for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Spicy kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier London broil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the London broil and the exact ingredients used. For a general estimate, one serving could contain roughly:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
This smoked London broil recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes transforming into healthy meals. It's a perfect illustration of how homemade cooking can deliver delicious dishes with minimal effort. Enjoy!