Can London Broil Be Marinated Too Long?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you a fan of London broil? If so, you may already know that marinating is an essential step to achieve maximum flavor and tenderness.

But have you ever wondered if marinating for too long can ruin your steak? Let’s explore this question in detail.

What is London Broil?

Before we delve into the main topic, let’s first understand what London broil is. Contrary to what many people believe, London broil is not a specific cut of meat but rather a cooking method. It involves marinating a tough cut of beef (usually flank steak) and then grilling or broiling it at high heat.

Why Marinate London Broil?

As mentioned earlier, marinating helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. The acidic ingredients in the marinade (such as vinegar or lemon juice) break down the tough muscle fibers while the other components (such as herbs and spices) add depth and complexity to the taste.

How Long Should You Marinate London Broil?

Now coming back to our main question – can London broil be marinated too long? The answer is yes and no. It depends on the type of marinade you are using.

If your marinade contains acidic ingredients, such as citrus juices or vinegar, then you should not marinate your steak for more than 24 hours. Over-marinating with acidic ingredients can actually have the opposite effect and make the meat tough instead of tender.

However, if your marinade does not contain any acidic ingredients, then you can marinate your steak for up to 48 hours without any issues. In fact, some chefs recommend longer marination times (up to 72 hours) for certain cuts of beef such as flank steak or skirt steak which are inherently tough.

Tips for Marinating London Broil

  • Always use a non-reactive container such as glass or plastic for marinating. Avoid using metal as it can react with the acidic ingredients and alter the taste.
  • Make sure to pat the steak dry before placing it in the marinade.

    Excess moisture can dilute the marinade and affect the flavor.

  • Don’t reuse the marinade once you’ve taken out the steak. It can contain harmful bacteria from the raw meat.
  • For best results, let the steak rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before grilling or broiling. This helps to ensure even cooking and juiciness.

In Conclusion

London broil is a delicious and economical way to enjoy beef. Marinating is a key step to unlock its full potential, but you need to be mindful of how long you marinate depending on your ingredients. Follow our tips for marinating London broil and you’ll be rewarded with a tender, flavorful steak every time.