London broil is a classic dish that has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. It’s a simple yet flavorful cut of beef that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling to pan-frying. However, if you’re looking to take your London broil game to the next level, consider trying stuffed London broil pinwheels. This dish is a creative twist on the classic recipe, featuring a tender and juicy cut of beef wrapped around a delicious filling. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook stuffed London broil pinwheels that are sure to impress your family and friends.
What is London Broil?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at what London broil is. London broil is a type of beef cut that is typically taken from the rear section of the animal, near the round. It’s a lean cut of meat, which means it’s lower in fat than other cuts of beef. This makes it a popular choice for health-conscious cooks who want to create a delicious and flavorful dish without sacrificing nutrition.
London broil is usually cut into thin slices, which are then cooked using a variety of methods. It’s a versatile cut of meat that can be grilled, pan-fried, or even cooked in the oven. When cooked correctly, London broil is tender and juicy, with a rich beef flavor that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What are Stuffed London Broil Pinwheels?
Stuffed London broil pinwheels are a creative twist on the classic London broil recipe. Instead of simply cooking the beef as a flat cut, you’ll be wrapping it around a delicious filling to create a pinwheel shape. This filling can be made with a variety of ingredients, from sautéed spinach and garlic to crumbled blue cheese and chopped bacon.
The filling is placed in the center of the beef, which is then rolled up into a tight pinwheel shape. The pinwheel is then cooked using a variety of methods, from grilling to pan-frying. When cooked correctly, the beef is tender and juicy, while the filling is hot and flavorful.
Benefits of Stuffed London Broil Pinwheels
There are several benefits to cooking stuffed London broil pinwheels. Here are a few:
- Increased flavor: By adding a delicious filling to the center of the beef, you’ll be increasing the overall flavor of the dish. This is especially true if you’re using a flavorful filling like sautéed spinach and garlic.
- Improved presentation: Stuffed London broil pinwheels are a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The pinwheel shape is unique and eye-catching, making it perfect for special occasions.
- Easy to cook: Despite the fact that stuffed London broil pinwheels look complicated, they’re actually quite easy to cook. Simply season the beef, add the filling, and cook using your preferred method.
Ingredients Needed
To cook stuffed London broil pinwheels, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 (1.5-2 pound) London broil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Optional Filling Ingredients
While the above ingredients will give you a delicious and flavorful filling, you may want to consider adding some other ingredients to suit your tastes. Here are a few options:
- Chopped onions or shallots
- Diced bell peppers
- Sliced mushrooms
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Instructions
Cooking stuffed London broil pinwheels is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
To prepare the filling, start by heating the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Next, stir in the crumbled blue cheese and chopped bacon. Cook until the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
To prepare the beef, start by seasoning the London broil with salt and pepper. If desired, brush with Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
Next, lay the beef flat on a cutting board. Spread the prepared filling down the center of the beef, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
Step 3: Roll the Pinwheel
To roll the pinwheel, start by folding the 1-inch border over the filling. This will help keep the filling inside the beef as it cooks.
Next, roll the beef into a tight pinwheel shape. Use kitchen twine to tie the pinwheel in place, if desired.
Step 4: Cook the Pinwheel
To cook the pinwheel, you can use a variety of methods. Here are a few options:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the pinwheel on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Pan-frying: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pinwheel and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Oven roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pinwheel on a baking sheet and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking stuffed London broil pinwheels:
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature, use a meat thermometer. The recommended internal temperature for medium-rare beef is 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Don’t overfill the beef: Make sure to leave a 1-inch border around the filling to prevent it from spilling out during cooking.
- Experiment with different fillings: While the filling recipe above is delicious, you may want to consider experimenting with different ingredients to suit your tastes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking stuffed London broil pinwheels:
- Overcooking the beef: London broil can become tough and dry if it’s overcooked. Make sure to cook the beef to your desired level of doneness, using a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Not leaving enough border around the filling: If you don’t leave enough border around the filling, it may spill out during cooking. Make sure to leave a 1-inch border to prevent this from happening.
Conclusion
Stuffed London broil pinwheels are a delicious and creative twist on the classic London broil recipe. By adding a flavorful filling to the center of the beef, you’ll be increasing the overall flavor of the dish. Plus, the pinwheel shape is visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions. With these simple instructions and tips, you’ll be well on your way to cooking stuffed London broil pinwheels that are sure to impress your family and friends.
What is a London Broil Pinwheel and how does it differ from a traditional London Broil?
A London Broil Pinwheel is a creative twist on the classic dish, where a thinly sliced cut of beef is rolled with various fillings, such as vegetables, cheese, and herbs, to create a pinwheel shape. This differs from a traditional London Broil, which is typically a flat cut of beef cooked in a single piece.
The pinwheel design allows for a more visually appealing presentation and a more complex flavor profile, as the fillings are distributed throughout the meat. Additionally, the rolling process helps to create a more tender and evenly cooked final product.
What type of beef is best suited for making London Broil Pinwheels?
The best type of beef for making London Broil Pinwheels is a thinly sliced cut, such as top round or top sirloin. These cuts are lean and tender, making them ideal for rolling and cooking. It’s essential to choose a cut that is uniform in thickness, so that the pinwheel cooks evenly.
When selecting a cut of beef, look for one that is labeled as “London Broil” or “top round.” You can also ask your butcher to slice the meat to the desired thickness, usually around 1/4 inch. This will ensure that your pinwheels are easy to roll and cook evenly.
What are some popular fillings for London Broil Pinwheels?
Some popular fillings for London Broil Pinwheels include sautéed spinach and garlic, roasted red peppers, and crumbled blue cheese. You can also use other ingredients like caramelized onions, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes to add flavor and texture.
The key is to choose fillings that complement the beef without overpowering it. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create unique flavor profiles. For example, you could pair the beef with a tangy goat cheese and fresh herbs for a refreshing twist.
How do I assemble and roll the London Broil Pinwheels?
To assemble the pinwheels, lay the sliced beef flat and spread a layer of filling on top, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Then, roll the beef tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact pinwheel.
To secure the pinwheel, you can use toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold it in place. Make sure to roll the pinwheel tightly, so that the filling is evenly distributed and the beef cooks uniformly. You can also refrigerate the pinwheels for up to 24 hours before cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
What is the best way to cook London Broil Pinwheels?
The best way to cook London Broil Pinwheels is to sear them in a hot skillet and then finish them in the oven. This method allows for a crispy crust to form on the outside, while the inside remains tender and juicy.
To cook the pinwheels, heat a skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the pinwheels for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned, then transfer them to a preheated oven to finish cooking. The internal temperature should reach 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for medium-well.
Can I make London Broil Pinwheels ahead of time and freeze them?
Yes, you can make London Broil Pinwheels ahead of time and freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, assemble the pinwheels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the pinwheels to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer.
When you’re ready to cook the pinwheels, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and cook as directed. You can also cook the pinwheels straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep or special occasions.
How do I slice and serve London Broil Pinwheels?
To slice the London Broil Pinwheels, use a sharp knife to cut them into 1-inch thick slices. You can serve the pinwheels as is, or with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.
When serving, you can also add a sauce or gravy to complement the flavors of the pinwheel. Some options include a horseradish cream sauce, a red wine reduction, or a simple au jus. The key is to let the pinwheels rest for a few minutes before slicing, so that the juices can redistribute and the meat stays tender.