Is London Broil a Good Cut of Steak?

By Alice Nichols

Are you a steak enthusiast looking for the next best cut of meat? If so, you might have come across London broil.

But is London broil a good cut of steak? Let’s dive into the details.

What is London Broil?

London broil is not actually a specific cut of meat but rather a cooking method. Typically, London broil refers to a flank steak that has been marinated and then grilled or broiled at high temperatures. The flank steak cut is known for its strong flavor but can be tough if not cooked correctly.

The Pros of London Broil

One advantage of London broil is its affordability. Flank steak tends to be less expensive than other popular cuts like ribeye or filet mignon. Additionally, because it is marinated before cooking, it can be infused with various flavors like garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

Flavorful

Another advantage is the strong flavor of flank steak. When cooked properly and seasoned well, it can be quite delicious. The marinade helps to tenderize the meat while also adding depth and complexity to its flavor.

Versatile

London broil can also be quite versatile in terms of how it can be served. It can be sliced thinly and used in sandwiches or salads or served as a main course with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

  • Marinating helps tenderize the meat
  • Affordable compared to other cuts
  • Strong flavor when seasoned well
  • Versatile in how it can be served

The Cons of London Broil

While there are certainly advantages to London broil, there are also some drawbacks to consider.

Tough Texture

Flank steak can be quite tough if not cooked properly. Overcooking the meat can result in a Chewy and unpleasant texture. To avoid this, it’s important to cook London broil quickly at high temperatures and to slice it against the grain.

Not as Tender as Other Cuts

Compared to other popular cuts like filet mignon or New York strip steak, flank steak is generally not as tender. While the marinade can help to tenderize it somewhat, it will never be quite as melt-in-your-mouth tender as these other cuts.

Can be Difficult to Cook

Because flank steak can be tough and is best cooked quickly at high temperatures, it can be challenging for inexperienced cooks to get right. It’s important to pay close attention to the cooking time and temperature and to let the meat rest before slicing.

  • Can be tough if not cooked properly
  • Not as tender as other cuts
  • Can be difficult for inexperienced cooks to get right

The Verdict on London Broil

So, is London broil a good cut of steak? The answer is..it depends.

If you are looking for an affordable cut of meat with a strong flavor that can be used in a variety of ways, then London broil might be a good choice for you. However, if you are seeking melt-in-your-mouth tenderness or an easy-to-cook option, then you might want to consider other cuts instead.

Ultimately, whether or not London broil is a good cut of steak comes down to personal preference and cooking skill. With the right preparation and technique, flank steak can certainly make for a delicious meal.