How to Cook a London Broil on a Pellet Smoker for Perfection?

By Avi Green October 01, 2023

Cooking a delicious London broil on a pellet smoker may seem challenging, but the process can be incredibly rewarding, especially for professionals in the kitchen. This method not only infuses the meat with a rich, smoky flavor, but it also results in tender, juicy cuts. In this guide, we will break down how to cook a London broil on a pellet smoker into easy-to-follow steps, ensuring that you master this technique like a pro.

Before diving deep into this meat-loving culinary adventure, let's briefly discuss what a London broil is. Traditionally, London broil refers to a cut of beef thats marinated and then grilled or broiled. The term often describes the cooking method as well. The beauty of cooking this cut on a pellet smoker is that you get the benefits of both grilling and slow cooking, which results in a beautifully cooked steak that is packed with flavor.

how to cook a London broil on a pellet smoker

The Basics of Pellet Smokers

Understanding how your pellet smoker works is integral to achieving the ideal temperature and flavor profile for your London broil. Pellet smokers use wood pellets as fuel, which are fed into a firebox and ignited. The smoker's thermostat controls the temperature, allowing for consistent heat and smoke during the cooking process. It's essential to choose quality wood pellets, as they contribute significantly to the flavor of your meat.

Ingredients for Your London Broil

To prepare a mouthwatering London broil, gather the following ingredients:

2-3 pounds of London broil
Marinade: cup soy sauce, cup olive oil, cup red wine vinegar, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish.

Preparing Your Marinade

Marinating your London broil enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk them together. Place the London broil in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring that the meat is fully coated. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 to 6 hours, but ideally overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

How to Prepare Your Pellet Smoker

Once your London broil has marinated, its time to get your pellet smoker ready. Follow these steps:

Fill your pellet hopper with high-quality wood pellets of your choice. For a London broil, suggest hickory or mesquite for their robust flavors.
Set the smoker to 225F and allow it to preheat. This low and slow approach will help to develop a delicious crust on your outside while rendering the meat tender on the inside.
Place a temperature probe in the thickest part of the meat for accurate internal temperature readings.

Cooking the London Broil

Now that your pellet smoker is ready, let's talk about the cooking process:

Remove the London broil from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade.
Season the meat with fresh black pepper and salt as per your preference.
Place the London broil directly on the grill grates, close the lid, and smoke it for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130F for medium-rare or 140F for medium.

Resting Your London Broil

It's crucial to allow your London broil to rest after cooking. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat.

Slicing and Serving

When its time to slice, ensure you cut the meat against the grain. This will keep each slice tender. Serve your delicious London broil with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Don't forget to drizzle some balsamic reduction or chimichurri sauce over the top for an extra flavor boost!

Cleanup and Storage

After enjoying your meal, remember to clean your pellet smoker according to the manufacturer's instructions. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Common Errors to Avoid While Cooking London Broil on a Pellet Smoker

Even seasoned cooking professionals can fall into common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

**Skipping the Marinade**: This cut of beef benefits greatly from marination, if skipped, you might end up with dry meat.
**Not Monitoring the Temperature**: Always keep track of the internal temperature with a probe. Overcooking can make your meat tough.
**Forgetting Resting Time**: Dont cut straight into the meat. Giving it time to rest ensures a moist and flavorful result.