Can You London Broil Your Way to a Philly Cheesesteak? The Beef on the Bread Debate
Let's face it, sometimes that Philly cheesesteak craving hits you like a rogue rogueball (IYKYK reference for all you dodgeball enthusiasts). But hold on there, cheesesteak adventurer! You peek in the fridge and all you see is that lonely flank steak labeled "London Broil." Panic sets in. Can this underdog cut become the champion of your sandwich dreams?
The Truth, You Can Handle It (Probably)
Fear not, cheese-loving friend! London broil can absolutely be used for a cheesesteak. It won't be exactly the same as a Philly cheesesteak made with rib-eye, the undisputed king of cheesesteak meats. But hey, that doesn't mean it can't be delicious!
Why London Broil Might Be a Contender
- Budget-Friendly: London broil is typically a more affordable cut than rib-eye. Cheesesteak on a dime? You got it!
- Flavor Fighter: While not as tender as rib-eye, London broil packs a decent amount of flavor. With the right preparation, it can hold its own in a cheesesteak.
But Beware, Grasshopper, There Are Challenges
- The Tenderness Trap: London broil can be on the chewy side. To conquer this foe, thinly slicing the meat is key.
- The Marinade Mission: A good marinade can work wonders on London broil, tenderizing it and adding extra flavor. So get creative with your marinade game!
Conquering the London Broil Cheesesteak: A Battle Plan
- Slice it Thin: Think whisper-thin for maximum tenderness.
- Marinade Like a Master: Soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, citrus juice - these are your marinade weapons. Let the London broil soak up that flavor goodness for a few hours.
- Cook it Quick: High heat and short cook times are your friends here. You want the meat cooked through but still juicy.
- Cheese it Up: Provolone is the classic cheesesteak cheese, but feel free to experiment with other melty favorites.
- Pile on the Flavor: Onions, peppers, mushrooms - these classic cheesesteak toppings will take your creation to the next level.
Embrace the Experiment!
The beauty of cooking is the room for creativity. So don't be afraid to experiment with your London broil cheesesteak. Who knows, you might just invent the next cheesesteak sensation!
Bonus: Philly Cheesesteak Trivia Time!
Did you know the cheesesteak was invented in Philadelphia in the 1930s, most likely by a hot dog vendor looking for a late-night snack for taxi drivers?
How-To FAQ for the London Broil Cheesesteak Champion
- How to Thinly Slice London Broil: Freeze the meat for 30 minutes to firm it up, then slice against the grain with a sharp knife.
- How to Make a Simple Marinade: Combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs in a zip-lock bag with the London broil. Marinate for at least 2 hours.
- How to Cook the Steak: Heat a pan or grill over high heat. Cook the steak for 1-2 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- How to Melt Cheese Perfectly: Place cheese on the cooked steak and cover the pan for a minute or two, letting the residual heat melt the cheese.
- How to Choose the Right Bread: Hoagie rolls are the classic choice, but any crusty bread you like will work!
