Flank Steak vs. London Broil

Attribute	Flank Steak	London Broil
Origin	Argentina	United States
Cut	From the abdominal muscles of the cow	Can refer to different cuts, often top round or sirloin
Tenderness	Less tender	Can be tender if cooked properly
Flavor	Rich and beefy	Beefy and flavorful
Texture	Grainy and fibrous	Firm and slightly chewy
Best Cooking Methods	Grilling, broiling, or stir-frying	Grilling, broiling, or pan-searing
Serving	Sliced against the grain	Sliced against the grain

Introduction

When it comes to grilling or cooking a delicious steak, there are numerous cuts to choose from. Two popular options that often come up in discussions are flank steak and London broil. While both cuts are flavorful and versatile, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences and similarities between flank steak and London broil, helping you make an informed decision for your next meal.

Flank Steak

Flank steak is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It is long and flat, with a prominent grain running across the meat. This cut is known for its rich, beefy flavor and is often used in dishes like fajitas, stir-fries, and tacos. Flank steak is best cooked quickly over high heat, such as grilling or broiling, to achieve a tender and juicy result.

One of the key attributes of flank steak is its versatility. Due to its relatively thin nature, it cooks relatively fast, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or when you're short on time. Additionally, flank steak readily absorbs marinades, allowing you to infuse it with various flavors and spices. Its texture is slightly chewy, but when sliced against the grain, it becomes tender and easy to eat.

However, it's important to note that flank steak can become tough if overcooked. It is best served medium-rare to medium, with a pink center. Overcooking can result in a dry and chewy steak, so it's crucial to keep a close eye on the cooking time.

London Broil

Contrary to popular belief, London broil is not a specific cut of beef but rather a cooking method. However, it is commonly associated with a specific cut known as top round steak. Top round steak is a lean and flavorful cut that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. It is typically thicker than flank steak and has less marbling.

London broil is prepared by marinating the top round steak and then broiling or grilling it. The marinade helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavors. Once cooked, the London broil is thinly sliced against the grain, resulting in tender and juicy pieces of beef. It is often served as a main course or used in sandwiches and salads.

Compared to flank steak, London broil has a slightly milder flavor. It is also a bit less tender due to its lower fat content. However, when cooked and sliced correctly, it can still be a delicious and satisfying option. London broil is best served medium-rare to medium, ensuring that it remains juicy and flavorful.

Comparison

Now that we have explored the individual attributes of flank steak and London broil, let's compare them side by side:

Flavor

• Flank Steak: Rich and beefy flavor.
• London Broil: Slightly milder flavor.

Tenderness

• Flank Steak: Tender when cooked correctly, slightly chewy texture.
• London Broil: Less tender due to lower fat content, but still enjoyable when cooked and sliced properly.

Cooking Method

• Flank Steak: Best cooked quickly over high heat, such as grilling or broiling.
• London Broil: Typically marinated and then broiled or grilled.

Cooking Time

• Flank Steak: Cooks relatively fast due to its thin nature.
• London Broil: Requires a slightly longer cooking time due to its thickness.

Uses

• Flank Steak: Ideal for fajitas, stir-fries, tacos, and other dishes where quick cooking is desired.
• London Broil: Often served as a main course or used in sandwiches and salads.

Conclusion

Both flank steak and London broil offer unique attributes that make them appealing choices for different occasions. Flank steak's rich flavor, quick cooking time, and versatility make it a go-to option for weeknight meals. On the other hand, London broil, prepared using top round steak, offers a milder flavor and can be a great choice for those who prefer leaner cuts.

Ultimately, the decision between flank steak and London broil depends on personal preference and the specific dish you plan to prepare. Whichever cut you choose, be sure to follow proper cooking techniques and slice against the grain to ensure a tender and enjoyable dining experience.