If you’re a fan of grilled or broiled beef, you’ve probably heard of London broil. It’s a popular cut of meat that’s known for its tenderness and rich flavor.
But what if you can’t find London broil at your local grocery store or butcher shop? What other cuts of meat are equivalent to London broil? Let’s explore some options.
What Is London Broil?
Before we dive into alternatives, let’s quickly define what London broil actually is. Contrary to popular belief, London broil isn’t a specific cut of beef. Instead, it’s a cooking method that involves marinating a large, tough cut of beef (like flank steak) and then broiling or grilling it at high heat until it’s medium-rare or medium.
Alternatives to London Broil
Now that we know what London broil is, let’s look at some alternative cuts of beef that can be used in its place.
Flank Steak
Flank steak is the most commonly used substitute for London broil. It comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow and has a similar texture and flavor profile to London broil when cooked properly.
To prepare flank steak, marinate it for several hours before grilling or broiling it over high heat. Because flank steak is thin and lean, it cooks quickly – only about 5-7 minutes per side – so be sure not to overcook it.
Top Round Steak
Another option is top round steak, which comes from the top portion of the cow’s hind leg. Like flank steak, top round steak is lean and has less marbling than other cuts like ribeye or sirloin. It also has a slightly more pronounced beefy flavor than flank steak.
To prepare top round steak as a substitute for London broil, marinate it overnight before grilling or broiling it over high heat. Because it’s thicker than flank steak, it may take a little longer to cook – around 10-12 minutes per side.
Sirloin Tip Steak
Sirloin tip steak comes from the round primal cut of the cow, just above the hind leg. It’s a lean and flavorful cut of meat that’s often used in stews and stir-fries, but can also be grilled or broiled as a substitute for London broil.
To prepare sirloin tip steak, marinate it for at least an hour before grilling or broiling it over high heat. Because it’s thinner than top round steak, it will cook more quickly – around 6-8 minutes per side.
Conclusion
London broil may be a popular cut of beef, but there are plenty of alternatives available if you can’t find it at your local grocery store or butcher shop. Flank steak, top round steak, and sirloin tip steak are all great substitutes that will deliver similar texture and flavor when cooked properly. Just be sure to marinate your chosen cut of meat before grilling or broiling it to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor.