What Cut of Meat Is London Broil?

By Alice Nichols

London Broil is a popular dish that is loved by many meat lovers. However, there is often confusion about what cut of meat exactly is used for London Broil. In this article, we will take a closer look at what cut of meat is London Broil and how to prepare it.

What Is London Broil?

London Broil is a method of cooking beef that involves marinating and broiling or grilling the meat until it’s medium-rare or medium in doneness. The term “London Broil” actually refers to the preparation method rather than the cut of meat itself.

What Cut of Meat Is Used for London Broil?

The term “London Broil” originally referred to flank steak, but today many other cuts can be used as well. The most common cuts used for London Broil are top round steak and bottom round steak.

Top Round Steak

Top round steak comes from the rear leg of the cow and is a lean cut of beef. It’s often used for roasts or steaks and can be tough if not cooked properly. However, when marinated and cooked using the London Broil method, it becomes tender and flavorful.

Bottom Round Steak

Bottom round steak also comes from the rear leg but is located closer to the hoof than top round steak. It’s also a lean cut but has more connective tissue than top round steak, making it tougher. However, when sliced thinly against the grain and marinated properly, it becomes tender and tasty.

Preparing London Broil

Regardless of the cut of meat you choose to use for your London Broil, preparation remains similar. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare delicious London Broil:

  • 1 pound Top Round Steak or Bottom Round Steak
  • 1/2 cup Soy Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Honey
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper, ground
  • Instructions:

  • 1. Combine soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic, and black pepper in a bowl and whisk until well combined.
  • 2. Place the steak in a large Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • 3. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
  • 4. Remove the steak from the bag and discard the marinade. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • 5. Grill or broil the steak for about 5-6 minutes per side for medium-rare or until desired doneness is reached.
  • 6. Remove from heat and let rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  • The Bottom Line

    London Broil is a delicious dish that can be made with various cuts of meat, but top round steak and bottom round steak are among the most popular choices. Regardless of which cut you use, marinating your meat before cooking is crucial to achieve tender and flavorful results.