What To Know
- Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- A dull knife will tear the meat, resulting in a less tender steak.
Hanger steak, a delectable cut from the diaphragm of the cow, is renowned for its intense flavor and tender texture. While it’s often grilled or pan-seared, cooking hanger steak in the oven yields equally impressive results. This detailed guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve a perfectly cooked hanger steak every time.
Choosing the Right Steak
When selecting a hanger steak, look for one with a deep red color and minimal marbling. The steak should be about 1-1.5 inches thick and have a uniform shape. Avoid steaks with excessive fat or connective tissue.
Prepping the Steak
Before roasting, it’s crucial to prepare the steak properly. Trim off any excess fat, leaving a thin layer around the edges for flavor. Season the steak generously with salt and black pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs, such as garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary.
Selecting the Right Temperature
The ideal oven temperature for cooking hanger steak is 400°F (200°C). This high heat will sear the outside of the steak, creating a flavorful crust, while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Roasting the Steak
Place the seasoned hanger steak on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This will allow air to circulate around the steak, ensuring even cooking. Roast the steak for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
- Medium-well: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well-done: 145°F and above (63°C and above)
Resting the Steak
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Slicing and Serving
Slice the hanger steak against the grain into thin slices. This will make it easier to chew and enhance the flavor. Serve the steak immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Perfect Hanger Steak
- Use a sharp knife: A dull knife will tear the meat, resulting in a less tender steak.
- Don’t overcook: Hanger steak is a relatively thin cut, so it’s important to avoid overcooking it. Cooking it beyond medium-rare will make it tough and chewy.
- Let it rest: Resting the steak is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute and ensuring a tender result.
- Experiment with marinades: Marinating the steak overnight in a flavorful marinade can enhance its taste and tenderness.
- Pair it with a bold wine: Hanger steak’s intense flavor pairs well with bold red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
The Ultimate Finishing Touch: Sauces and Toppings
- Red wine sauce: A classic accompaniment to hanger steak, red wine sauce is made with red wine, shallots, garlic, and herbs.
- Chimichurri sauce: A vibrant and herbaceous sauce made with fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, and olive oil.
- Béarnaise sauce: A rich and creamy sauce made with egg yolks, white wine vinegar, and tarragon.
- Caramelized onions: Sweet and savory caramelized onions add a delicious topping to hanger steak.
- Roasted mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful roasted mushrooms are a great side dish for hanger steak.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I cook hanger steak in a cast iron skillet?
A: Yes, you can cook hanger steak in a cast iron skillet over high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then reduce heat and cook to your desired doneness.
Q: Can I use a marinade on hanger steak?
A: Yes, marinating hanger steak overnight in a flavorful marinade can enhance its taste and tenderness. Use a marinade with acidic ingredients, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to help break down the connective tissue.
Q: What is the difference between hanger steak and skirt steak?
A: Hanger steak and skirt steak are both flavorful and tender cuts from the diaphragm of the cow. However, hanger steak is typically smaller and more tender than skirt steak.
Q: How long can I store cooked hanger steak?
A: Cooked hanger steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a low oven or microwave before serving.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with hanger steak?
A: Good sides to serve with hanger steak include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, or a simple green salad.
