Grilled Hanger Steak

As the sun sets, the smell of sizzling meat fills the air. It’s time to fire up the grill and cook a delicious steak. But not all steaks are the same. The grilled hanger steak is a hidden gem that’s soon to be your favorite.

Hanger steak, also known as the “butcher’s steak,” is tender and full of flavor. It’s often ignored by home cooks. But once you try a grilled hanger steak, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner. Its unique texture and bold taste make it perfect for a memorable steak night.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of hanger steak. We’ll explore its origins and the best ways to grill it. Whether you’re a steak expert or new to grilling, you’ll find a new favorite here.

What is Hanger Steak?

Hanger steak is also called the “butcher’s steak” or “onglet.” It comes from the diaphragm muscle near the rib and loin area. This muscle makes the steak tender and full of flavor.

Like flank and skirt steak, hanger steak is best cooked at high heat. It also tastes great when marinated.

A Tender and Flavorful Cut

Hanger steak is very tender and full of flavor. The muscle is well-exercised, which adds to its unique taste. It’s a favorite among steak lovers for its beefy flavor and tenderness.

The Butcher’s Steak

Hanger steak is called the “butcher’s steak” because butchers used to keep it for themselves. It was often overlooked by customers. But butchers knew its value and enjoyed it themselves.

Now, hanger steak is loved by home cooks and chefs. They enjoy its amazing flavor and tender texture.

Why Choose Hanger Steak?

Looking for a budget-friendly beef cut that tastes like steak-house quality? Hanger steak is your answer. It’s cheaper than filet mignon but just as tender and tasty when cooked right.

Affordable and Underrated

Hanger steak was once kept by butchers for themselves. It’s a hidden treasure with a rich, meaty flavor. Yet, it’s often overlooked for pricier cuts.

Versatile for Grilling and Tacos

Hanger steak is great for grilling and searing. Its thin shape cooks fast and evenly. It’s perfect for tacos, fajitas, or stir-fries. Grilling enhances its flavor and adds a nice crust.

Want a budget-friendly, versatile, and tasty beef option? Try hanger steak. It’s tender, flavorful, and a great filet mignon alternative without the high cost.

Preparing the Perfect Marinade

Making the perfect marinade is key to juicy, flavorful grilled hanger steak. It’s a mix of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. These ingredients tenderize the meat and add savory flavors.

The lemon juice in the marinade breaks down tough fibers in the steak. This makes it tender and easy to chew. The olive oil keeps the meat moist, preventing it from drying out while grilling.

To make the marinade, just whisk together:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

After mixing the ingredients, put the hanger steak in a shallow dish or plastic bag. Pour the marinade over it. Cover or seal it and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight. Turn the steak a few times to coat evenly.

When it’s time to grill, take the steak out of the marinade. Let it sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes. This makes it cook evenly and stay juicy and flavorful.

Grilled Hanger Steak Rub

Grilling the perfect hanger steak is easier with a flavorful rub. This mix of seasonings creates a tasty crust. It keeps the steak juicy and brings out its beefy flavor.

Ingredients for the Rub

• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Creating a Flavorful Crust

To get a caramelized crust on your steak, rub it with the mix. Press the rub into the meat. When it hits the grill, the seasoning will sear it, keeping it juicy.

The result is a seared and flavorful crust. It matches the tender, beefy interior perfectly.

Grilling Hanger Steak to Perfection

Grilling hanger steak to perfection needs a few steps. First, preheat your grill to 450°F to 500°F. This high heat creates a beautiful sear on the steak, keeping all juices inside.

Preheating the Grill

Before grilling, clean and oil the grates. This prevents the meat from sticking. For charcoal grills, use a chimney starter for even heat.

Achieving the Perfect Doneness

As the grill heats up, focus on the perfect doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130°F to 140°F for the best taste and tenderness.

Remember, the steak will cook a bit more after you take it off the grill. So, remove it a few degrees before your desired doneness. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This makes the steak juicy and flavorful.

With a hot grill, a reliable thermometer, and patience, you’ll grill hanger steak perfectly every time.

Slicing and Serving Grilled Hanger Steak

After grilling the hanger steak to perfection, it’s time to slice and serve. Slicing right is key for tender and juicy bites. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes to let juices spread evenly.

When you’re ready to slice, place the steak so the grain is horizontal. Use a sharp knife to cut against the grain in thin strips. This makes the steak tender and tasty.

Good presentation makes grilled hanger steak even better. Place the juicy and tender slices on a platter. Add fresh herbs, steak sauce, or sea salt for a nice touch.

Serving grilled hanger steak shows off your cooking skills. It’s perfect for dinner parties or family meals. This sliced and plated dish will impress and please everyone.

Homemade Steak Sauce

Make your grilled hanger steak even better with homemade steak sauce. It’s made with brown butter, onions, and garlic. Then, add Red Gold ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce. This mix creates a tangy, umami sauce that goes great with the steak.

Ingredients for the Steak Sauce

• 2 tablespoons brown butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Red Gold ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water

Preparing the Flavorful Sauce

Melt the brown butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and clear, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells good.

In a blender, mix the cooked onions and garlic with the other ingredients. This includes Red Gold ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and water. Blend until it’s smooth and well mixed.

Put the sauce back in the saucepan and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. Stir it a few times to help it thicken. Taste it and add more vinegar or soy sauce if you want it tangier or more umami.

Enjoy your homemade steak sauce with your grilled hanger steak. It’s a meal that’s full of savory, tangy, and umami flavors. Every bite is delicious.

grilled hanger steak Temperature Guide

Getting the perfect temperature for your grilled hanger steak is key for a great meal. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the inside. This ensures your steak is cooked just right.

Hanger steak tastes best when it’s medium-rare (135°F to 140°F) or medium (145°F to 150°F). Here’s a simple guide to help you get it just right:

• Rare: 125°F to 130°F
• Medium-rare: 135°F to 140°F
• Medium: 145°F to 150°F
• Medium-well: 150°F to 155°F
• Well-done: 160°F to 165°F

Take the steak off the grill when it hits your internal temperature goal. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This makes the steak juicy and full of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover grilled hanger steak, you’ll want to keep it fresh. Follow a few easy steps to enjoy it for days. This way, you can keep the steak’s flavor and texture just right.

Refrigerating Leftover Steak

Leftover steak can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container. Also, put it on the bottom shelf to avoid contamination.

Reheating Steak

• For the best results, reheat the steak in a baking dish covered with foil at 250°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 110°F. This gentle heating method will help prevent the steak from drying out.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the steak in a covered pan on the stovetop over low heat, turning occasionally, until warmed through.
• Avoid using the microwave, as it can quickly dry out the steak and compromise its texture.

Freezing Leftover Steak

If you have more steak than you can eat in 3-4 days, freeze it. Wrap it tightly in freezer paper or an airtight container. It will last 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your grilled hanger steak for days or weeks. A little planning lets you enjoy the steak’s flavors long after the first meal.

Hanger Steak vs. Other Cuts

Hanger steak, skirt steak, and flank steak are all favorites for grilling. Each has its own special traits. Knowing these differences helps you pick the best steak for your dinner.

Skirt Steak

Skirt steak is long and thin, with a strong meaty taste. It can be up to 24 inches long. It tastes beefier than flank steak and needs marinating to be tender.

Flank Steak

Flank steak is lean and has a chewy texture. It’s wider and shorter than skirt steak, with less fat. It cooks best quickly over high heat and also likes marinating.

Hanger steak, skirt steak, and flank steak are all unique. They suit different cooking methods and tastes. Knowing their differences helps you choose the perfect steak for your next grilling.

Tips for the Best Grilled Hanger Steak

Hanger steak is a hidden gem among beef cuts. It offers remarkable tenderness and flavor when grilled right. To get the best results, follow these essential tips:

1. Let it come to room temperature: Before grilling, let your hanger steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour. This helps it cook more evenly.
2. Preheat your grill to high heat: Hanger steak needs a good sear. So, make sure your grill is very hot before adding the meat.
3. Sear it right: Quickly sear the hanger steak on both sides. This locks in the juices and creates a delicious crust.
4. Give it a rest: After cooking, let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, making it more tender and flavorful.
5. Slice against the grain: When serving, slice the hanger steak perpendicular to the muscle fibers. This breaks down the tough fibers, making the meat tender.
6. Marinate and season: To enhance the natural flavors, marinate the steak for up to 24 hours. Then, season it with a flavorful rub before grilling.

By following these simple tips, you’ll enjoy the best grilled hanger steak every time.

Delicious Side Dish Ideas

Pair your grilled hanger steak with tasty side dishes. Try a creamy pasta salad or a cool chickpea and cucumber salad. They add great flavors and textures for summer grilling and cookouts.

Creamy Pasta Salad

Make your pasta salad creamy and rich. Mix al dente pasta, tangy Boursin cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s indulgent yet refreshing. Chill it for a nice contrast to the warm steak.

Chickpea and Cucumber Salad

For a light yet tasty option, try a chickpea and cucumber salad. It has protein-rich chickpeas, crisp cucumbers, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect with grilled hanger steak. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a summer dish.

Conclusion

Grilled hanger steak is a dish that truly stands out. It shows off the natural tenderness and rich flavor of this often overlooked cut. By marinating, rubbing, and grilling it just right, you can make it a delicious meal.

Pair it with tasty side dishes and homemade steak sauce for a memorable meal. This way, you’ll impress everyone with your cooking skills.

With the tips from this article, you’ll become a pro at grilling hanger steak. It’s a favorite among meat lovers because of its taste, price, and versatility. Whether it’s for a big event or a simple dinner, this guide will help you make a steak that’s both flavorful and perfectly cooked.

So, get your grill ready, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the bold flavor of grilled hanger steak. With a bit of prep and care, you’ll have a meal fit for a restaurant in your own backyard. Bon appétit!