Is London Broil Good for Beef Jerky?

If you have ever wondered, “Is London Broil good for beef jerky?” the simple answer is yes. In fact, London Broil is one of my favorite cuts for making homemade beef jerky because it is lean, flavorful, and easy to slice into perfect strips. Whenever I want a satisfying protein packed snack that tastes better than store bought jerky, I reach for London Broil.

One reason London Broil works so well for beef jerky is its low fat content. Fat does not dehydrate properly and can shorten the shelf life of jerky, so using a lean cut is important. London Broil gives you that rich beefy flavor without excess fat, making it ideal for drying in the oven, smoker, or dehydrator.

I also love how affordable this cut can be compared to premium steaks. You can make a large batch of delicious homemade beef jerky without spending too much money. Plus, the texture becomes wonderfully chewy after marinating and drying, which is exactly what many jerky lovers want.

This recipe creates six hearty servings and uses a simple marinade that balances salty, smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Whether you are preparing snacks for road trips, meal prep, hiking, or just a healthy homemade treat, this London Broil beef jerky recipe is worth trying.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds London Broil beef
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Place the London Broil in the freezer for about 45 minutes. This firms up the meat slightly and makes it easier to slice thinly. Thin slices are important because they dry evenly and create the classic jerky texture.

2. Using a sharp knife, slice the London Broil into thin strips about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Slice against the grain if you want softer jerky or with the grain if you prefer a chewier texture.

3. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, liquid smoke, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

4. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and mix thoroughly so every piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place everything in a zip top bag.

5. Refrigerate the beef for at least 8 hours, but overnight is even better. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to soak deeply into the meat.

6. Remove the beef from the marinade and pat the strips dry with paper towels. Removing extra moisture helps the jerky dry properly.

7. If using a dehydrator, arrange the strips in a single layer on the trays. Dry at 160 degrees Fahrenheit for 4 to 6 hours or until the jerky bends without breaking completely.

8. If using an oven, place the strips on wire racks over baking sheets. Set the oven to its lowest temperature, usually around 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Leave the oven door slightly open to allow moisture to escape. Dry for 4 to 6 hours.

9. Check the jerky regularly during the final hour. Properly dried jerky should feel firm and dry but still slightly flexible.

10. Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Why London Broil Is Good for Beef Jerky

If someone asks me, “Is London Broil good for beef jerky?” I always explain that this cut checks nearly every box needed for excellent jerky. First, it is lean enough to dry properly without becoming greasy. Second, it has a strong beef flavor that stands up well to marinades and seasonings.

Another reason London Broil is good for beef jerky is its texture. When sliced correctly and dried slowly, it creates the perfect chewy bite that jerky fans enjoy. It also absorbs marinades beautifully, giving every piece deep savory flavor.

Cost is another major advantage. Many premium cuts can become expensive, especially when making large batches of jerky. London Broil offers great value while still delivering high quality results. This makes it a smart choice for beginners and experienced jerky makers alike.

I also appreciate how easy it is to find at most grocery stores. You do not need specialty cuts or expensive butcher orders. A simple London Broil from the meat section can turn into a delicious homemade snack with very little effort.

Tips or Variations

Slice Carefully

For easier slicing, partially freeze the beef before cutting. Thin, even slices help the jerky dry consistently and improve texture.

Adjust the Heat

If you enjoy spicy jerky, add extra red pepper flakes or a little cayenne pepper. For milder jerky, simply reduce the spice level.

Try Different Marinades

You can customize this recipe with teriyaki sauce, maple syrup, barbecue seasoning, or even chipotle peppers for smoky heat.

Use a Smoker

A smoker adds incredible flavor to London Broil beef jerky. Low temperatures and wood smoke create a rich, authentic taste that many people love.

Store Properly

Homemade jerky lasts longer when stored in airtight containers. Refrigeration or vacuum sealing can extend freshness significantly.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

Is London Broil good for beef jerky compared to other cuts?

Yes, London Broil is excellent for beef jerky because it is lean, flavorful, and affordable. Many people compare it to top round or eye of round, which are also popular jerky cuts.

Should I cut London Broil with or against the grain?

Cutting against the grain creates softer jerky, while cutting with the grain gives a chewier texture. Both methods work well depending on your preference.

How long does homemade beef jerky last?

When stored in an airtight container, homemade jerky usually lasts about one week at room temperature. Refrigeration can help it stay fresh for several weeks.

Can I make this recipe without a dehydrator?

Absolutely. An oven works very well for making beef jerky. Just use a low temperature and allow moisture to escape during drying.

What makes London Broil good for beef jerky?

The lean texture, rich beef flavor, and affordable price make London Broil one of the best options for homemade jerky.

Can I freeze homemade beef jerky?

Yes, freezing jerky is a great way to extend its shelf life. Store it in freezer safe bags or airtight containers.

Conclusion

So, is London Broil good for beef jerky? Without a doubt, yes. It is one of the best cuts for creating flavorful, chewy, protein rich jerky at home. Its lean texture, affordable price, and ability to absorb marinades make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced cooks.

I love making homemade beef jerky because it allows me to control the flavors, spice level, and ingredients while avoiding unnecessary preservatives found in many packaged snacks. Once you try this London Broil beef jerky recipe, you may never want store bought jerky again.

If you enjoy homemade snacks with bold flavor and satisfying texture, give this recipe a try. Experiment with different seasonings, share it with friends and family, and enjoy the rewarding process of making your own delicious beef jerky at home.