The Ultimate Guide To Cooking Hanger Steak: How Long To Cook It And More!
Hanger steak, also known as butcher’s steak or onglet, is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that has gained popularity in recent years. Its unique texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among steak enthusiasts. However, achieving the perfect cook on a hanger steak can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to determining the optimal cooking time. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to master the art of cooking hanger steak and ensure a perfectly seared and succulent result every time.
Understanding Hanger Steak
Hanger steak is a long, flat cut of beef that comes from the diaphragm muscle of the cow. It is known for its coarse grain, which gives it a slightly chewy texture, and its intense beefy flavor. Due to its unique shape and texture, hanger steak requires a bit more attention to detail when cooking compared to other cuts of steak.
Choosing the Right Hanger Steak
The first step to cooking a great hanger steak is choosing a high-quality cut. Look for steaks that are bright red in color, with good marbling and a firm texture. Avoid steaks that are brown or gray, as these may indicate that the meat is not fresh.
Seasoning and Marinating
Once you have selected your hanger steak, season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs to your liking, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or rosemary. If you want to enhance the flavor even further, you can marinate the steak in a mixture of olive oil, red wine, and herbs for several hours or overnight.
Preparing the Pan
To achieve a perfect sear on your hanger steak, you need to use a heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan. Heat the pan over high heat until it is very hot. Add a small amount of oil to the pan to prevent the steak from sticking.
Searing the Steak
Once the pan is hot, place the hanger steak in the pan and sear it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. Be sure to flip the steak only once during this process.
Cooking to Desired Doneness
After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking to your desired doneness. Here is a general guide to cooking times for hanger steak:
- Rare: 2-3 minutes per side
- Medium-rare: 3-4 minutes per side
- Medium: 4-5 minutes per side
- Medium-well: 5-6 minutes per side
- Well-done: 6-7 minutes per side
It is important to note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your steak and the temperature of your pan. To ensure accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak.
Resting the Steak
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
Slicing and Serving
Slice the hanger steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve 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 sharp knife will help you slice the steak against the grain, resulting in more tender pieces.
- Don’t overcook: Hanger steak is a relatively thin cut, so it is important to avoid overcooking it. Overcooked hanger steak will become tough and chewy.
- Let the steak rest: Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
- Serve with a flavorful sauce: A flavorful sauce can enhance the taste of hanger steak even further. Consider serving it with a red wine sauce, chimichurri, or a simple garlic butter.
Takeaways: Mastering the Art of Hanger Steak
Cooking hanger steak to perfection is an art form that requires a combination of skill and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can master the art of cooking hanger steak and enjoy a perfectly seared and succulent result every time.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the best way to season hanger steak?
A: Season hanger steak generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or herbs to your liking, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or rosemary.
Q: How long should I marinate hanger steak?
A: Marinating hanger steak for several hours or overnight will enhance its flavor. However, if you are short on time, even a 30-minute marinade will make a noticeable difference.
Q: Can I cook hanger steak on a grill?
A: Yes, you can cook hanger steak on a grill. Preheat your grill to high heat and sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side. Then, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking to your desired doneness.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with hanger steak?
A: Good sides to serve with hanger steak include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Q: How do I know when hanger steak is done cooking?
A: The best way to determine the doneness of hanger steak is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and cook to your desired internal temperature.