If you’ve ever tasted London broil, you might have noticed that it can be quite tough and Chewy. This can be disappointing, especially if you were expecting a tender and juicy cut of meat.
But why is London broil so tough? Let’s take a closer look.
What is London Broil?
First, it’s important to understand what London broil is. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not actually a specific cut of meat. Instead, it refers to a cooking method that involves marinating and then grilling or broiling a lean cut of beef.
The Cut
One reason why London broil can be tough is because of the type of beef that’s used. Typically, London broil is made from flank steak or top round steak. These cuts are flavorful but also quite lean, which means they don’t have a lot of fat marbling throughout the meat.
The Solution
To combat this, many chefs recommend slicing the meat against the grain before serving. This helps to break up some of the muscle fibers and make the meat easier to chew.
The Marinade
Another factor that can contribute to toughness in London broil is the marinade. Many recipes call for acidic ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice, which can actually toughen up the meat if left too long.
To avoid this problem, it’s important to choose a marinade recipe that balances acidity with other flavors like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or garlic. And don’t let your meat soak in the marinade for too long – 24 hours should be plenty.
Cooking Method
Finally, the way you cook your London broil can also affect its tenderness. Grilling or broiling over high heat can result in an outer layer that’s charred and tough while the inside is still undercooked.
To avoid this, many chefs recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure that your London broil is cooked to the right temperature. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. And be sure to let your meat rest for a few minutes before slicing – this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several reasons why London broil can be tough – from the choice of beef cut to the marinade and cooking method. But with a little bit of know-how and attention to detail, you can enjoy a delicious and tender London broil every time.