When it comes to grilling, two popular cuts of beef often come up in conversation: London Broil and Flank Steak. Both cuts are relatively affordable compared to other beef cuts, and they’re known for their rich flavor and tender texture. However, some key differences between the two are worth considering before deciding which cut to use. This article will explore the differences between London Broil vs Flank Steak, including their flavor profiles, cooking methods, and more. You’ll better understand these cuts and which might be best for your next grill session.
What is London Broil?
London Broil, also known as Swiss Steak or Skirt Steak, is a classic cut of beef that has been popular in England since the 19th century. It is a lean, flavorful cut of beef that is usually marinated, grilled, and served as a main course.
The term London Broil refers to a cooking method, not a specific cut of beef. It is usually prepared by marinating a tough, boneless cut of beef in a flavorful blend of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. After marinating, the beef is grilled or broiled until cooked to the desired doneness.
London Broil can be prepared with any boneless cut of beef, but the most popular cuts are top round, chuck roast, flank steak, and skirt steak. Full round and chuck roast are both quite lean and, when appropriately cooked, can be pretty tender. Flank steak is a much leaner cut of beef and is best for grilling or broiling. Skirt steak is an even leaner cut of beef and is best for marinating, grilling, or broiling.
When purchasing London Broil, looking for a cut of beef that is as lean as possible is essential. For the most flavor, opt for grass-fed beef. This type of beef is typically higher in fat than grain-fed beef but also contains higher levels of essential nutrients, such as the antioxidant vitamin E.
What is Flank Steak?
You’ve probably heard of flank steak if you’re a steak lover. It’s a cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow near the flank or the lower abdominal area. It’s usually lean and full of flavor, and it’s the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious steak without breaking the bank.
Flank steak is a versatile cut of meat. It’s relatively thin so it can be cooked quickly and easily. It’s also flavorful and a great choice for marinades and spice rubs. It’s a great cut to use when making fajitas or tacos, as it’s a great source of lean protein that can be cooked to perfection in minutes. It’s also great for slicing and throwing on the grill or broiler.
Flank steak is also a healthy option. It’s low in fat and protein, so it’s an excellent choice for those looking to add lean protein to their diet. It’s also low in calories, so it’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying steak without worrying about your calorie count. Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of iron.
When shopping for flank steak, look for a piece that’s relatively uniform in thickness. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly. Also, look for one that’s well-marbled and has some fat. This will help it stay juicy and tender and will also add flavor.
London Broil and Flank Steak: Are They the Same?
Are you confused about London Broil and Flank Steak? Many think they’re the same, but that’s not necessarily true. They’re both flavorful cuts of beef, but there are some subtle differences between them.
London Broil is actually a cooking method, not a specific cut of beef. It’s usually made with a tougher, leaner cut such as flank steak, top round, or top blade. The beef is marinated, grilled, or broiled, then thinly sliced against the grain. London Broil can also be made with other cuts of beef, such as skirt steak or hanger steak.
Flank steak, on the other hand, is a specific cut of beef. It’s the beef equivalent of pork tenderloin, located beneath the sirloin area. It’s a lean cut, full of flavor, and relatively inexpensive. Flank steak is best when cooked quickly over high heat, so grilling and broiling are great options.
The biggest difference between London Broil and Flank Steak is the cut of beef. London Broil can be made with any tough cut, whereas Flank Steak is always the same. The other difference is the cooking method. London Broil is best when marinated, then grilled or broiled, whereas Flank Steak is best cooked quickly over high heat.
So, why the confusion between London Broil and Flank Steak? It may be because London Broil can be made with Flank Steak. In this case, the two terms can be used interchangeably. Just remember that London Broil is a cooking method, while Flank Steak is a specific cut of beef.
Differences Between Flank Steak vs London Broil
While some people believe they are the same, there are a few differences between them. Flank steak is cut from the lower section of the cow or the abdominal muscles, while London broil refers to a cooking method rather than a cut of beef. Although the traditional cut of meat for London broil is flank steak, other cuts like top rounds or blade roast are sometimes used.
However, what sets them apart is how they are prepared and served. Flank steak is usually grilled, seared, and sliced thin against the grain, while London broil is heavily seasoned, marinated, and then broiled or grilled. Let’s take a closer look at these two cuts of steak to help you decide which is right for your meal.
Nutritional Value
When it comes to nutrition, flank steak and London broil are quite similar. Both cuts are lean and low in fat, with about the same calories and protein per serving. The main difference is that flank steak has more saturated fat than London broil. Additionally, flank steak contains more vitamin B12, iron, and zinc than London broil.
Texture
In terms of texture, flank steak is tougher and can be stringy. This is because it’s a more heavily-worked muscle. London broil, on the other hand, is more tender and can be cut into thin slices.
Source
When it comes to the source of the steak, flank steak is cut from the abdominal muscles of the cow, while London broil is cut from the top round of the cow.
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Other Steaks That Are Often Labeled As London Broil
London Broil is a classic cut of beef that has been popular for decades. The name is a bit of a misnomer, as it can refer to various cuts with unique flavors and textures. But what other steaks can be labeled as London Broil? Let’s explore five other cuts of beef that are often labeled as London Broil.
Top Round
The top round is a lean cut of beef from the animal’s rear leg. It is usually cut into thin slices and grilled or broiled. This cut is known for its flavor and tenderness, and it’s a great option for a London Broil.
The Bottom Round
The bottom round is a tougher cut of beef from the rear leg. It’s usually cut into thick steaks and cooked slowly in the oven or stovetop. The long cooking time helps to break down the connective tissue, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
Sirloin Steak Tip
A sirloin steak tip is a lean cut of steak from the sirloin section of the animal. It’s usually cut into thin slices and grilled or broiled. This cut is known for its flavor and tenderness and makes a great choice for a London Broil.
Chuck Shoulder
Chuck’s shoulder is a tough cut of beef from the shoulder area of the animal. It’s usually cut into thick steaks and cooked slowly in the oven or stovetop. The long cooking time helps to break down the connective tissue, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
Chuck Steak
Chuck steak is a tougher beef cut from the animal’s chuck section. It’s usually cut into thick steaks and cooked slowly in the oven or stovetop. The long cooking time helps to break down the connective tissue, resulting in a tender and flavorful steak.
London Broil vs Flank Steak – FAQs
Can You Substitute London Broil for Flank Steak?
London broil and flank steak are lean cuts of beef that can be used interchangeably in recipes. Though traditionally, the flank steak is used for London broil, some cooks and butchers may also use other cuts such as top rounds or sirloin tip roast. However, it is essential to note that while similar, these cuts have different textures and flavors.
The flavor and texture may slightly differ when substituting London broil for flank steak, but the result will still taste delicious. Weber Grill Review suggests sirloin steak as an excellent alternative to flank steak, but it is essential to keep in mind that there are different cooking methods for each cut. Ultimately, it is up to personal preference and availability when choosing which cut to use in a recipe.
Why is Flank Steak Called London Broil?
The term London broil referred to a cooking method for broiling a flank steak, popularized in North America during the 1950s. Nowadays, butchers may use the name London broil for a variety of lean, thick cuts of beef that can be cooked using the same method. However, the flank steak is the original cut used to make London broil. This cut is sourced from a specific area of the cow and is left to marinate overnight before being broiled.
Interestingly, in some parts of central Canada, a ground meat patty wrapped in flank or round steak is also known as London broil. So, there you have it – the quirky origins of why flank steak is sometimes called London broil.
What Are Some Popular Marinades For London Broil And Flank Steak?
London Broil and flank steak are beloved cuts of beef that require the right marinade to bring out their delicious flavors. There are several popular marinades to choose from when preparing London Broil or flank steak. One commonly used marinade consists of soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Another popular marinade includes red wine, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. These marinades infuse the meat with sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, resulting in a mouth-watering taste. Whether grilling, broiling, or baking, these delicious marinades will make for a satisfying and tasty meal.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to London broil vs flank steak, it’s all about personal preference. London broil is the way to go if you’re looking for an affordable, flavorful steak to grill. Flank steak is the better option if you’re looking for a more tender, juicy steak to splurge on.
No matter which steak you choose, you can’t go wrong when grilling up a delicious meal for your family and friends.
References:
- https://www.quora.com/Why-is-flank-steak-sometimes-labeled-as-London-broil
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/London_broil
- https://www.theseasonedmom.com/london-broil-marinade/
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!