How Do You Tenderize a London Broil Before Cooking?

By Alice Nichols

London Broil is a lean and tough cut of meat that comes from the flank or round region of the cow. It’s a popular choice for grilling, but it requires some tenderizing before cooking to make it more tender and juicy.

Here are some ways to tenderize London Broil:

Marinating

One of the easiest and most effective ways to tenderize London Broil is by marinating it. A marinade is a mixture of acid, oil, and seasonings that help break down the tough muscle fibers in the meat.

Here’s a simple marinade recipe for London Broil:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well combined. Place the London Broil in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the meat is fully coated with the marinade, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Pounding with a Meat Mallet

Another method to tenderize London Broil is by pounding it with a meat mallet. This technique breaks down the muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender.

To do this, place the London Broil on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound both sides of the meat until it’s evenly thin (about 1/4 inch thick). Be careful not to overdo it, as you don’t want to completely shred the meat.

Slicing Against the Grain

Slicing London Broil against the grain is another way to make it more tender. The grain refers to the direction of the muscle fibers in the meat. Slicing against the grain cuts the fibers into shorter pieces, making it easier to chew.

To do this, look for the lines on the surface of the meat and slice perpendicular to them. Cut thin slices (about 1/4 inch thick) and serve immediately.

Conclusion

Tenderizing London Broil before cooking is essential to make it more palatable. You can marinate it with an acidic mixture, pound it with a meat mallet, or slice it against the grain. Whichever method you choose, you’ll end up with a flavorful and tender piece of meat that’s sure to please your taste buds!