London Broil is a popular cut of beef that has become a household name for many meat lovers. It is known for its lean and tough meat which requires specific cooking techniques to make it tender and delicious.
One question that often comes up in regards to London Broil is whether or not it should be marinated before cooking. Let’s take a closer look at this topic and answer the question, do you have to marinate London Broil?
What is London Broil?
Before we dive into the question of marinating, let’s first understand what London Broil actually is. Contrary to popular belief, London Broil is not a specific cut of beef but rather a cooking method.
It typically refers to a flank steak or top round steak that has been marinated, broiled or grilled, and then sliced against the grain. The result is a flavorful dish with thin slices that can be served as-is or used as an ingredient in other dishes.
Why Marinate?
Marinating is the process of soaking meat in a mixture of liquid and spices before cooking it. The primary purpose of marinating is to add flavor to the meat and also help tenderize tough cuts like London Broil. The acid in the marinade helps break down the muscle fibers which can make the meat more tender when cooked.
Do You Have To Marinate?
Now, back to our original question – do you have to marinate London Broil? The answer is no, you don’t have to but it certainly helps. Since London Broil can be tough due to its lean nature, marinating can help improve its texture by breaking down some of the muscle fibers and adding flavor.
If you choose not to marinate your London Broil, there are still ways to make it tender and flavorful. For instance, you can use dry rubs or spice blends or simply season it with salt and pepper before cooking. Cooking techniques such as broiling or grilling can also help add flavor to the meat.
How To Marinate London Broil
If you do decide to marinate your London Broil, here’s how to do it properly:
1. Choose a marinade that complements the flavors of the meat. A good marinade typically consists of an acid (such as vinegar or citrus juice), oil, herbs, and spices.
2. Place the London Broil in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish.
3. Pour the marinade over the meat and make sure it is evenly coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours but no more than 24 hours.
5. When ready to cook, remove the London Broil from the marinade and discard any excess liquid.
6. Pat dry with paper towels to remove any moisture and season with salt and pepper if desired.
7. Cook using your preferred method (broiling, grilling, etc.) until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Tip: Don’t over-marinate your London Broil as this can result in a mushy texture.
Conclusion
In summary, marinating is not a requirement for cooking London Broil but it certainly helps add flavor and improve its texture. If you choose not to marinate your meat, there are still ways to make it tender and flavorful by using dry rubs or seasoning blends before cooking. However, if you want to take your London Broil to the next level, consider giving it a good soak in a tasty marinade before cooking!