What To Know
- Hanger steak should be cooked over high heat to quickly sear the outside and create a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Place the steak in a roasting pan and roast for 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the hanger steak on all sides over medium-high heat.
Hanger steak, also known as “butcher’s steak” or “hanging tender,” has gained popularity in recent years for its unique flavor and affordable price. However, a common concern among home cooks is whether hanger steak is tough. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore this question in detail and provide insights into the factors that influence the tenderness of hanger steak.
What is Hanger Steak?
Hanger steak is a cut of beef taken from the diaphragm muscle, which is located near the cow’s liver. It is a relatively small cut, weighing around 1-1.5 pounds, and has a distinctive fan-shaped appearance. Hanger steak is known for its intense beefy flavor and rich texture.
Is Hanger Steak Tough?
The answer to this question is not a straightforward yes or no. The toughness of hanger steak can vary depending on several factors, including the following:
- Age of the animal: Hanger steak from younger animals tends to be more tender than that from older animals.
- Method of preparation: Hanger steak can be cooked using various methods, including grilling, roasting, and braising. The cooking method can significantly impact the tenderness of the steak.
- Cutting technique: Cutting hanger steak against the grain can help break down the muscle fibers and make it more tender.
- Marinade or brine: Marinating or brining hanger steak can help tenderize it by breaking down the proteins in the meat.
How to Cook Hanger Steak Tender
To ensure that your hanger steak turns out tender and flavorful, follow these tips:
- Choose a younger animal: If possible, opt for hanger steak from a younger animal, as it will be naturally more tender.
- Marinate or brine: Marinating or brining the steak for several hours or overnight can significantly improve its tenderness.
- Cook over high heat: Hanger steak should be cooked over high heat to quickly sear the outside and create a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Cut against the grain: After cooking, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain. This will help break down the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender.
Grilling Hanger Steak
Grilling is a popular method for cooking hanger steak. To achieve the best results, follow these steps:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to high heat, around 500-600°F (260-315°C).
- Season the steak: Season the hanger steak liberally with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning.
- Grill the steak: Place the steak on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Roasting Hanger Steak
Roasting is another excellent method for cooking hanger steak. To roast hanger steak, follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the steak: Season the hanger steak liberally with salt and pepper or your favorite steak seasoning.
- Roast the steak: Place the steak in a roasting pan and roast for 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Braising Hanger Steak
Braising is a moist-heat cooking method that is ideal for tough cuts of meat. To braise hanger steak, follow these steps:
- Brown the steak: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the hanger steak on all sides over medium-high heat.
- Add liquid: Add your desired liquid to the skillet or Dutch oven, such as beef broth, red wine, or beer.
- Simmer: Bring the liquid to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the steak is tender.
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the cooking liquid and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
The Bottom Line: Hanger Steak – Tender or Tough?
The tenderness of hanger steak is a complex issue that depends on several factors. By understanding these factors and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your hanger steak turns out tender and flavorful every time. Remember, with the right preparation techniques, hanger steak can be an incredibly satisfying cut of meat that is both affordable and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hanger steak a tough cut of meat?
Hanger steak can vary in toughness depending on the age of the animal, preparation method, cutting technique, and whether it has been marinated or brined.
How can I make hanger steak more tender?
You can make hanger steak more tender by marinating or brining it, cooking it over high heat, and cutting it against the grain.
What is the best way to cook hanger steak?
Hanger steak can be grilled, roasted, or braised. Each method has its own advantages, so choose the one that best suits your preferences.
How long should I cook hanger steak?
The cooking time for hanger steak will vary depending on the method you choose and the desired doneness. Consult the specific instructions for each cooking method for guidance.
What is the best temperature to cook hanger steak?
The ideal internal temperature for hanger steak is 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium, and 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium-well.
