What Is the Fastest Way to Tenderize a London Broil?

By Anna Duncan

Are you looking for a quick and easy way to tenderize your London broil? Well, you’re in luck because there are a few simple steps you can take to achieve the perfect texture. Whether you’re short on time or just want to skip the traditional marinating process, these tips will help you get dinner on the table faster.

1. Pound It Out

One of the most effective ways to tenderize any cut of meat is by pounding it out. This technique works by breaking down the muscle fibers and connective tissue, which can make even tough cuts like London broil more tender.

To pound out your London broil, start by placing it between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper. Then, using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the meat until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Be careful not to pound too hard or too fast, as this can tear the meat.

2. Score It

Another way to tenderize your London broil is by scoring it. This involves making shallow cuts across the surface of the meat with a sharp knife. The cuts should be about 1/4 inch deep and spaced about 1 inch apart.

Scoring your London broil helps break down the muscle fibers and connective tissue, allowing for more even cooking and a more tender end result.

3. Salt It

Salt can also be used as a tenderizer for London broil. Simply sprinkle both sides of the meat generously with kosher salt and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking.

The salt draws out moisture from the meat, which then gets reabsorbed along with some of the salt into the muscle fibers. This process helps break down tough proteins and results in a more tender piece of meat.

4. Cut Against the Grain

Finally, it’s important to cut your London broil against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers.

Cutting against the grain helps break up the muscle fibers and makes for a more tender and flavorful bite. To identify which way the grain is running, look for the lines or striations on the surface of the meat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several ways to tenderize a London broil without having to spend hours marinating it. Pounding it out, scoring it, salting it, and cutting against the grain are all effective techniques that can help you achieve that perfect texture. So next time you’re in a hurry but still want a delicious and tender piece of meat, give one or more of these methods a try!