[Full Guide] How Long To Cook London Broil In Instant Pot?

Cooking London broil in an Instant Pot can yield a tender and flavorful dish in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function allows for the meat to be cooked quickly while still retaining its juiciness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the selection, preparation, cooking times, and troubleshooting common issues when cooking London broil in an Instant Pot.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook London Broil In Instant Pot

The quick answer to how long to cook London broil in an Instant Pot is approximately 20-25 minutes on high pressure for a 2-pound London broil. However, this time can vary depending on the thickness of the cut and the desired level of doneness.

Selection

When selecting a London broil for the Instant Pot, it’s important to choose a well-marbled piece of meat. Look for a cut that is around 1.5 to 2 inches thick with a good amount of marbling, as this will help keep the meat moist and tender during the pressure cooking process. Additionally, ensure that the cut will fit comfortably in the Instant Pot without having to be bent or folded.

Preparation

Before cooking the London broil in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to season the meat. A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works well, but you can also use your favorite dry rub or marinade. Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes after seasoning to let the flavors penetrate.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For London Broil

The cooking time for London broil in the Instant Pot can vary based on the size and thickness of the cut, as well as the desired level of doneness. Here are general guidelines to follow:

  • For a 1-inch thick London broil, cook for 15 minutes on high pressure.
  • For a 1.5 to 2-inch thick London broil, cook for 20-25 minutes on high pressure.
  • For rare to medium-rare, cook for the lower end of the time range, and for medium to well-done, cook for the higher end.

It’s important to note that the cooking times may need to be adjusted based on your specific Instant Pot model and the altitude at which you are cooking.

How To Cook London Broil In Instant Pot

  1. Preheat the Instant Pot: Turn on the sauté function and heat a small amount of oil in the Instant Pot.
  2. Sear the London Broil: Once the Instant Pot is hot, carefully place the seasoned London broil in the pot and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until browned.
  3. Add Liquid: After searing, add about 1 cup of beef broth, red wine, or water to the Instant Pot to create steam for the pressure cooking process. This will also help to infuse flavor into the meat.
  4. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook setting and adjust the time based on the thickness of the London broil and desired doneness.
  5. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
  6. Rest and Slice: Remove the London broil from the Instant Pot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain to serve.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Tough Meat

If the London broil turns out tough, it may have been undercooked. In this case, return it to the Instant Pot and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes on high pressure.

Overcooked Meat

If the meat is overcooked and dry, try reducing the cooking time in the Instant Pot for the next attempt. It’s essential to monitor the cooking time carefully to achieve the desired level of doneness.

Insufficient Flavor

If the London broil lacks flavor, consider increasing the seasoning before cooking or using a more flavorful liquid, such as a well-seasoned beef broth or a combination of broth and red wine.

Burnt Bits At The Bottom

If you encounter burnt bits at the bottom of the pot during the sautéing process, ensure that the meat is not overly wet when you place it in the Instant Pot. Pat it dry with a paper towel before searing.

Cooking London broil in an Instant Pot offers a convenient and efficient way to prepare this flavorful cut of meat. By carefully selecting the right cut, preparing it with the appropriate seasonings, and following the suggested cooking times, you can achieve a perfectly cooked London broil that is both tender and full of flavor. With the troubleshooting tips provided, you can address common issues that may arise and refine your technique for future cooking endeavors. Experiment with different seasonings and liquids to customize the flavor to your liking, and enjoy the ease and delicious results that cooking London broil in an Instant Pot can offer.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen London Broil

London broil is a popular cut of beef known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. Traditionally, this cut of beef is marinated and then cooked on a grill or in the oven. However, with the rise in popularity of the Instant Pot, many home cooks are discovering the convenience and efficiency of preparing London broil in this versatile appliance.

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The Instant Pot is a multi-functional pressure cooker that can be used to cook a wide variety of dishes, including London broil. It uses steam pressure to quickly cook food, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. With the right techniques and cooking times, you can achieve a perfectly cooked London broil that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Cooking frozen London broil in the Instant Pot can be a time-saver and eliminates the hassle of thawing the meat beforehand. However, it’s important to note that the cooking times will vary depending on the thickness and size of the meat. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

  1. 1-inch Thickness: For a 1-inch thick frozen London broil, cook it on high-pressure for approximately 30 minutes. This will result in medium-rare to medium doneness. If you prefer a more well-done steak, you can increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

  2. 1.5-inch Thickness: For a 1.5-inch thick frozen London broil, increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes on high-pressure. Again, adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.

It’s important to note that these cooking times are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as the specific Instant Pot model and the starting temperature of the meat. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the London broil reaches the desired doneness (145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium).

Achieving Perfect Texture

The key to achieving a tender and juicy London broil in the Instant Pot is to properly prepare the meat before cooking. Here are some tips to ensure perfect texture:

  1. Marinate: London broil can benefit from a flavorful marinade to help tenderize the meat and enhance its flavor. You can marinate the meat overnight or for at least 2 hours before cooking. A simple marinade can consist of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and your choice of herbs and spices.

    To marinate the London broil, place the meat in a sealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it is fully covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. When you are ready to cook, remove the meat from the marinade and pat it dry with a paper towel before placing it in the Instant Pot.

  2. Sear the Meat: Searing the London broil before pressure cooking can enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust on the outside. To do this, heat a few tablespoons of oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. When the oil is hot, carefully place the meat in the pot and sear it on all sides until browned. This step not only adds flavor but also helps lock in the meat’s juices.

  3. Use a Trivet: To prevent the London broil from sticking to the bottom of the Instant Pot and getting overcooked, it’s recommended to use a trivet. The trivet elevates the meat above the liquid in the pot, allowing for more even cooking and better texture.

    Place the trivet in the Instant Pot before adding the meat. This will ensure that the London broil cooks evenly and doesn’t become soggy.

Flavor Infusion

One of the advantages of cooking London broil in the Instant Pot is the ability to infuse it with bold flavors. Here are some ways to enhance the taste of your Instant Pot London broil:

  1. Add Aromatics: Aromatics such as onions, garlic, and herbs can be added to the Instant Pot along with the London broil to infuse flavor into the meat. Roughly chop an onion, smash a few garlic cloves, and add a handful of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the pot. These aromatics will permeate the meat during the cooking process, resulting in a more flavorful final dish.

  2. Deglaze the Pot: After searing the London broil, there will likely be browned bits stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot. This is where a lot of flavor resides. To ensure that none of it goes to waste, deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of liquid, such as broth or wine, and scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This will release the flavorful bits and incorporate them into the cooking liquid.

  3. Use Flavored Cooking Liquids: Instead of using plain water or broth as the cooking liquid, consider using flavored liquids to add depth of flavor to the London broil. You can use beef broth, red wine, or even a mixture of both as the cooking liquid. This will infuse the meat with additional savory notes and create a delicious gravy or sauce.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For London Broil

While pressure cooking is a popular method for cooking London broil in the Instant Pot, there are other cooking methods you can try for different results. Here are a few:

  1. Slow Cooking: If you have more time and prefer a slow-cooked London broil, you can use the slow cook function on your Instant Pot. Season the meat with your desired spices, place it in the pot along with any additional ingredients (such as onions, garlic, and herbs), and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. This method will result in a more tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

  2. Broiling: For those who enjoy a broiled London broil with a crispy crust, the Instant Pot can still be used to achieve this result. After pressure cooking the meat until tender, carefully transfer it to a baking sheet and place it under the broiler for a few minutes until nicely browned. This method will give you the best of both worlds – the tenderness from pressure cooking and the crispy exterior from broiling.

  3. Sous Vide: You can even use the Instant Pot as a sous vide cooker to achieve precise temperature control and perfect doneness. Simply season the London broil, seal it in a vacuum-sealed bag, and place it in the Instant Pot filled with water. Set the temperature to your desired level of doneness and let the meat cook for the recommended time. Once the cooking time is up, remove the bag from the Instant Pot and finish the meat by searing it on a hot pan or grill for a few minutes on each side.

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These alternative cooking methods allow for versatility in preparing London broil in the Instant Pot and cater to different preferences for texture and taste.

Instant Pot Tips For London Broil

To ensure a successful cooking experience and achieve the best results, here are a few useful tips for cooking London broil in the Instant Pot:

  1. Let the Meat Rest: After cooking the London broil in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful end result.

  2. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the London broil is cooked to your desired level of doneness, always use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and check the temperature. This will help you avoid overcooking or undercooking the meat.

  3. Adjust Cooking Times: The cooking times provided in this article are guidelines and may need to be adjusted based on personal preferences and the specific cut of London broil you are using. Experiment with different cooking times to find your perfect cooking point.

  4. Trim Excess Fat: London broil can sometimes have a layer of fat on the surface. Trimming excess fat can help prevent the steak from becoming overly greasy during the cooking process. However, leaving some fat can add flavor and juiciness to the meat, so it’s a personal preference.

  5. Use Natural Release: When the cooking time is up, it’s recommended to let the Instant Pot naturally release the pressure for a few minutes before using the quick-release method. This will help the meat retain its juices and prevent it from becoming tough.

  6. Check the Sealing Ring: Before cooking, always ensure that the sealing ring on the Instant Pot is properly seated and free of any debris. This will prevent steam from escaping and ensure a proper seal, resulting in efficient and effective cooking.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a delicious and tender London broil in the Instant Pot.

Creative Instant Pot London Broil Recipes And Variations

For those looking to take their Instant Pot London broil to the next level, here are some creative recipes and variations to try:

  1. Asian-Inspired: Marinate the London broil in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. After pressure cooking, slice the meat thinly and serve it over rice or noodles. You can also make a quick stir-fry with vegetables and the cooked London broil slices.

  2. Mediterranean Twist: Marinate the London broil in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, and rosemary. After pressure cooking, slice the meat and serve it on a bed of couscous or quinoa. Top it with a dollop of tzatziki sauce and serve with roasted vegetables.

  3. Mexican-Inspired: Season the London broil with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and lime juice. After pressure cooking, shred the meat and use it for tacos or burritos. Serve with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese.

  4. Red Wine Reduction: After pressure cooking the London broil, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Use the sauté function to reduce the cooking liquid until it thickens and forms a rich sauce. Slice the London broil and drizzle the red wine reduction sauce over it.

Feel free to experiment with different marinades, seasonings, and cooking methods to create your own unique Instant Pot London broil recipes.

Conclusion

Cooking London broil in the Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to prepare a delicious and tender beef dish. By following the cooking times for frozen London broil, using proper techniques to achieve the perfect texture, infusing flavors into the meat, and exploring different cooking methods and recipes, you can create a variety of mouthwatering dishes to satisfy your cravings.

Remember to take into account personal preferences for doneness, adjust cooking times accordingly, and always use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat is cooked to your liking. With a little experimentation and creativity, the Instant Pot can become your go-to appliance for preparing succulent London broil. Enjoy!

FAQS

What Is A London Broil?

A London broil is a method of preparing and cooking beef, typically using top round or flank steak, marinated and then quickly broiled or grilled at a high temperature. It is often served sliced thinly against the grain.

Can You Cook London Broil In An Instant Pot?

Yes, an Instant Pot can be used to cook London broil, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat.

How Do I Prepare The London Broil For Cooking In The Instant Pot?

To prepare the London broil, it is recommended to marinate the meat for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking. You can also season it with a dry rub or coat it with a marinade before cooking.

What Is The Cooking Time For London Broil In The Instant Pot?

The cooking time for London broil in the Instant Pot can vary depending on the size and thickness of the meat. Generally, it takes about 25-30 minutes on high pressure for a 2-3 pound London broil.

How Do I Know When The London Broil Is Done In The Instant Pot?

The best way to know if the London broil is done cooking is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 145°F, and for medium, it should be around 160°F. Let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.