The Hamptons: Food, Family, and History

London Broil with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

One of the first meals that I mastered was London broil with baked potatoes and simple steamed vegetables. I made it for Ralph and the children because it was an easy, quick meal to prepare. It was a dinner they often requested, and it became a basic meal that I could count on in my gradually growing repertoire. As my confidence grew, I started to prepare it for weekend guests.

For the London broil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup red wine
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 to 2½ pounds flank steak or top round

For the creamy horseradish sauce
¼ cup prepared horseradish
½ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Dash of Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh chives

To make the London broil: To make the marinade, mix together all the ingredients except the meat. Place the meat in a shallow dish and cover with the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours but no more than 24 hours.

Remove the meat from the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before cooking. Preheat a grill to high, oil the grate, and set it 5 to 6 inches above the coals. (Alternatively, preheat the broiler to high and set a rack 5 to 6 inches below the heat source.)

Remove the meat from the marinade (discard the marinade) and pat it dry with paper towels. Grill (or broil on a broiler pan) on each side for 6 minutes for rare or 7 to 9 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer to a carving board and let stand for 8 to 10 minutes. Slice the meat at a 45-degree angle across the grain and serve with the horseradish sauce.

To make the creamy horseradish sauce: Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Put in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve in a ramekin beside the meat.

Serves 6