How Do You Tenderize London Broil Before Grilling?

Tenderizing London broil before grilling is essential to ensure a flavorful and tender end result. London broil is a lean cut of beef, typically derived from the top round or flank steak.

While it is a delicious choice for grilling, it can be tough if not properly tenderized. In this tutorial, we will explore some effective methods to tenderize London broil and make it juicier and more succulent.

1. Marinating

Marinating London broil before grilling is an excellent way to enhance its tenderness and flavor. A marinade not only adds moisture but also breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a more tender piece of beef.

To create a basic marinade, combine the following ingredients:

• Acidic component: This can be lemon juice, lime juice, vinegar, or even wine. The acid helps to break down the muscle fibers in the meat. Use about 1/4 cup of acidic component.
• Oil: Olive oil or any other vegetable oil will work well.

  Oil helps to keep the meat moist during cooking. Use about 1/4 cup of oil.

• Aromatics: Garlic, onions, herbs like rosemary or thyme, and spices can be added to enhance the flavor of your marinade. Be creative with your choices and add them according to your taste preferences.
• Salt and pepper: Seasonings are essential for enhancing the taste of your London broil.

To marinate the London broil:

1. Pierce the meat: Use a fork or a sharp knife to make small punctures all over the meat. This will allow the marinade to penetrate deeper.
2. Place the meat in a resealable bag or a shallow dish: Make sure the bag or dish is large enough to hold the meat and the marinade.
3. Pour the marinade over the meat: Ensure that all sides of the London broil are well coated.

   If using a bag, squeeze out any excess air before sealing it.

4. Refrigerate and marinate: Leave the meat in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. Turn the meat occasionally to ensure even marination.

2. Using a Meat Tenderizer

If you prefer not to use a marinade, another effective method of tenderizing London broil is by using a meat tenderizer tool. This tool has small blades or prongs that help break down tough muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender texture.

To use a meat tenderizer:

1. Pierce the meat: Use the tenderizer tool to pierce small holes into both sides of the London broil. Make sure to apply even pressure while piercing.
2. Tenderize both sides: Flip the meat and repeat the process on the other side, ensuring that all parts of the meat are tenderized evenly.
3. Season and grill: Season your London broil with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Grill it according to your preference, keeping in mind that it cooks relatively quickly due to its lean nature.

3. Letting it Rest

After grilling your London broil, it is crucial to let it rest before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more tender steak.

Once you have finished grilling:

1. Remove from heat: Take the London broil off the grill and place it on a cutting board or a plate.
2. Tent with foil: Loosely cover the meat with aluminum foil. This helps to retain heat and allows for even distribution of juices.
3. Let it rest: Allow the London broil to rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period ensures that the meat retains its juiciness when sliced.

Tenderizing London broil is an essential step in achieving a delicious and tender grilled steak. Whether you choose to marinate it or use a meat tenderizer tool, these methods will undoubtedly enhance the tenderness and flavor of your London broil. Remember to let it rest before serving, and enjoy a mouthwatering meal!