How to Cook London Broil in Slow Cooker: A Flavorful and Foolproof Method
How to Cook London Broil in Slow Cooker?
To cook London broil in a slow cooker, start by searing the beef on the stovetop to lock in the flavor.
Then, place the beef in the slow cooker along with carrots, potatoes, butter, cream of mushroom soup, onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, canola oil, ground thyme, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and pepper.
Cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours.
About 2-3 hours before it’s done, add the potatoes and carrots.
If desired, you can thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry.
This slow cooker London broil recipe results in a moist and tender meat that pairs well with mashed potatoes, gravy, carrots, and homemade bread.
Key Points:
- Sear the beef on stovetop before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Add a variety of ingredients to the slow cooker, including carrots, potatoes, onion, garlic, and various seasonings.
- Cook on high for 5-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours.
- Add potatoes and carrots 2-3 hours before the dish is done.
- Optionally thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry.
- Serve the moist and tender meat with mashed potatoes, gravy, carrots, and homemade bread.
Did You Know?
1. Contrary to its name, London broil does not actually originate from London. The term “London broil” is believed to have been coined by American butchers in the early 20th century to describe a particular cooking method rather than the cut itself.
2. Originally, London broil referred to a thick, tough cut of meat (typically flank steak or top round) that was marinated, broiled quickly on high heat, and then thinly sliced against the grain. The slow cooker method is a more recent adaptation of cooking London broil.
3. When preparing London broil in a slow cooker, it’s still important to sear the meat beforehand to enhance its flavor and texture. By quickly browning the meat on all sides in a hot skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker, you can achieve a delicious caramelized crust.
4. London broil is often marinated to enhance its tenderness and flavor. Popular marinade ingredients for London broil include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, ginger, and various herbs and spices. Marinating the meat for at least a few hours, or even overnight, can greatly enhance its taste.
5. Slow-cooked London broil is perfect for making sandwiches. Once cooked and sliced, you can use the tender, flavorful meat to create delicious sandwiches with your choice of bread, toppings, and condiments. For an extra touch, try serving the sandwiches with a side of au jus or horseradish sauce for dipping.
1. Slow Cooker London Broil Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and fuss-free way to cook London broil, then using a slow cooker is the perfect solution. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating a moist and tender London broil, infused with savory herbs and cooked in a rich and flavorful gravy. With just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will impress your family and friends.
2. Ingredients for Slow Cooker London Broil
To make a slow cooker London broil, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 to 3 pounds of London broil cut of meat
- 1 cup of baby carrots
- 1 cup of mini red potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1/2 cup of red wine
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon of canola oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Prepare a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch and water) to thicken the gravy if desired.
To prepare the slow cooker London broil:
- Heat the canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the London broil with kosher salt, pepper, ground thyme, and red pepper flakes.
- Sear the London broil in the hot skillet for a few minutes on each side to create a crust.
- Transfer the London broil to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, baby carrots, and halved red potatoes to the slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the can of cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, and melted unsalted butter.
- Pour the mixture over the London broil and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Add the bay leaves for additional flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the meat is tender.
- Optional: If desired, thicken the gravy by stirring in a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Enjoy your delicious slow cooker London broil with tender meat and flavorful vegetables!
Note: It is important to follow food safety guidelines and ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature before consuming.
3. Cooking Instructions for Slow Cooker London Broil
To begin, heat the canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the London broil with kosher salt, pepper, ground thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sear the meat on each side for about 2-3 minutes until nicely browned. This step helps to seal in the flavors and juices of the meat.
Next, transfer the seared London broil to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant. Add the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Pour the mixture over the London broil in the slow cooker, ensuring that the meat is fully submerged in the gravy. Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 5-6 hours, or on low for 8-10 hours. The long cooking time will allow the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful.
About 2-3 hours before the London broil is fully cooked, add the baby carrots and mini red potatoes to the slow cooker. This will give them enough time to soften and absorb the delicious flavors of the gravy.
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can create a cornstarch slurry by combining cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir the slurry into the gravy in the slow cooker, and allow it to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
4. Instant Pot Method for Cooking London Broil
If you’re short on time and prefer to use an Instant Pot, you can still achieve delectable results with this method. Begin by searing the London broil on all sides using the sauté function of the Instant Pot. Then, add all the remaining ingredients to the pot, including the carrots, potatoes, and gravy mixture.
Cover the Instant Pot with the lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes. Finally, let the meat rest for an additional 10 minutes before carving to ensure optimal tenderness.
- Sear the London broil on all sides using the sauté function of the Instant Pot
- Add carrots, potatoes, and gravy mixture to the pot
- Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes
- Allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes
- Let the meat rest for an additional 10 minutes before carving to ensure optimal tenderness.
5. Variations to the Slow Cooker London Broil Recipe
While this recipe is already delicious, there are a few variations you can try to add even more flavor to your slow cooker London broil. For a bolder taste, consider adding onion soup mix, sour cream, or a touch of brown sugar to the gravy mixture. These additions will elevate the overall taste profile and make your dish unforgettable.
If you are watching your sodium intake, you can opt for low-sodium broth to reduce the salt content of the gravy without compromising on flavor. Adjusting the seasoning to your taste preferences is always encouraged in any recipe.
6. Serving Suggestions and FAQ about London Broil
Once your slow cooker London broil is cooked to perfection, you have a multitude of serving options. It pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, carrots, and homemade bread. You can also place it on top of steamed rice, alongside a medley of vegetables like green beans, or even on a bed of pasta for a comforting meal. The leftovers can be transformed into a flavorful stew or casserole, and the beef can be shredded for sandwiches or beef empanadas. The possibilities are endless!
To address some frequently asked questions about London broil, it’s important to note that London broil is not actually from London. It was first mentioned in a recipe book in Philadelphia back in 1931. Additionally, when marinating London broil, it is advisable to marinate it for at least 6 hours or up to 24 hours, especially if you’re not cooking it in a slow cooker. Lastly, the optimal cooking time for a tender London broil is 6-10 hours in a slow cooker, or 10 minutes under high pressure in an Instant Pot.
In conclusion, cooking London broil in a slow cooker is a foolproof method that guarantees a moist and tender result. By following these straightforward instructions and experimenting with various flavor variations, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress everyone at your table. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful London broil like never before!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cooking method is preferred for London broil?
London broil is best cooked using the broiling method. Broiling is favored due to its simplicity and speed, resulting in consistently delectable outcomes. Within merely eight to 10 minutes of being placed under the broiler, even tougher cuts of meat can be transformed into a steak that rivals those found in high-end restaurants.
What is the best way to tenderize a London broil?
One effective method to tenderize a London broil is by marinating it in a mixture of pineapple juice and soy sauce. The natural enzymes present in pineapple juice break down the tough muscle fibers, rendering the meat tender and juicy. Combining it with soy sauce imparts a savory flavor to the broil, creating a delicious and tender result. This marinating process should be done for about 2-4 hours to ensure optimal tenderness and flavor.
Another approach to tenderize London broil is by using a meat mallet or tenderizer. This technique involves physically pounding the meat, which helps break down the connective tissues and muscle fibers. By creating small indentations on the surface of the broil, it allows for better absorption of flavors and marinades. However, caution must be exercised to avoid over-tenderizing the meat, which can result in a mushy texture.
How to make meat tender in slow cooker?
To achieve tender meat in a slow cooker, there are a few techniques you can employ. Firstly, ensure you add enough broth or water to the slow cooker, as this helps prevent dryness and maintain moisture. Secondly, consider marinating the meat before cooking with acidic ingredients such as lemon or vinegar. The acidity will help break down tougher tissues, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final dish. Lastly, when slicing cooked beef, cutting against the grain can make a noticeable difference in tenderness. By doing so, you are cutting through the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender texture.
Why is it called London broil?
The origin of the name “London broil” remains a mystery, but one intriguing theory suggests that it was given this name to add a sense of sophistication and association with British culture. Being first cooked in Philadelphia, the choice of “London” may have been a nod to European economic prestige and a way to elevate the dish’s status. Although the true reason for the name remains lost to time, it is clear that London broil has successfully maintained an air of elegance and intrigue throughout its history.