Everyone is talking about hanger steak and loving its delicious taste. Therefore, now you are curious to know what hanger steak is and how to cook it, right? Let me tell you that hanger is an incredible cut of meat popular for its superior flavors, tenderness, and juiciness.

The hanger steak is made from the upper belly of the animal, just below the diaphragm. This meat piece is full of muscles, and all meat lovers are fans of its meaty and robust flavor. This versatile steak is easier to cook, and your loved ones will surely love this meat piece's juiciness.

Though this meat cut is not very popular, it stands out because of its excellent flavors, unique texture, and flavors. Let's find little details about this tender cut here if you also don't know about hanger steak pieces. Also, don't forget to check our recipe and impress everyone at your weekend party!

What Is A Hanger Steak?

Hanger steak belongs to the diaphragm muscles and hangs between the rib and loin of the animal. This steak piece is so tasty and is now widely available and has gained immense popularity in Europe and the UK.

The other name for hanger steak is butcher's steak, as this meat cut is considered the butcher's secret. Also, the butchers always cut this piece for themselves. Besides that, as this steak is very irregular, many also know it as sloppy.

If you were unaware of this flavorful, meaty piece, it is because all the animals have a very small hanger steak. Therefore, it is a rare opportunity for you might get this piece. Furthermore, its irregular shape makes it challenging to cook.

But don't go on its irregular shape, as the meat is so tendered and juicy. Think why butchers keep it for themselves. So, you must try hanger steak at least once, and you will love its chewy texture and rich, meaty flavor. You only need to ensure that you are cooking it correctly.

What Cut Is The Hanger Steak?

It is a V-shaped cut which comes from the belly of a cow. Though the most tendered, juiciest, and flavorful, it has lagged in popularity compared to other fatty steak pieces such as flank and skirt.

The rising prices of other steak pieces have urged meat lovers to think of hanger steak. It is because this alternative cut is budget-friendly and is equally delicious. You might not find the hanger steak easily in supermarkets because there is only one hanger steak per cow. Therefore, you must visit the butcher's shop or check online for this meat piece.

What Does A Hanger Steak Tastes Like?

The hanger steak belongs to the family of flat steaks; therefore, it is superiorly flavorful. Its taste resembles that of the skirt and flank steak taste. If you fortunately get a nice piece of hanger steak, it will have a good amount of marbling means it will have enough fat, which will make the steak juicy, tender, and rich in beefy flavors.

The steak goes well with the strong spices. Therefore, when you taste hanger steak, it will be highly seasoned. The hanger steak is popular in seasoned foods or dishes like tacos and sauces (chimichurri).

How To Cook The Hanger Steak?

Below are the steps you will follow to cook the hanger steak:

Step 1: Marinate The Steak

Although the hanger steak is so flavorful, marinate the meat to enhance its taste and add aroma. Always marinate the meat with oil, salt, and acid. You must marinate the steak for 24 hours, but if you run out of time, marinate for a few hours.

Step 2: Cooking The Steak At Higher Temperature

You can perfectly cook the hanger steak at high heat quickly. So, cook the meat at high flame first and choose pan-searing, high-heat grilling, or broiling.

Step 3: Cooking The Steak At Medium-Heat

After cooking it on high heat, cook the meat at medium heat (about 130 to 135 degrees). The steak is thin, so it will not need much time for cooking. Therefore, be careful, as you might overcook it.

Step 4: Let It Rest

After cooking the meat, let it rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes. In this will, the juices can resettle, slice the meat, and serve the tendered meat to your loved ones.

How To Store The Hanger Steak?

After purchasing from the butcher's shop, you can store the meat in the fridge for about four to five days. Remember that if you intend to store the hanger steak, do not marinate it.

But, if you want to store the meat for a long time, like for at least three months or more, wrap it first in aluminum foil and then put it in the freezing bag. Also, you can use an air-tight bag for this purpose. It is the best way to keep the taste and texture of the meat intact for a long time.

Pro tip: If you find a hanger steak in the butcher's shop or the market, don't grab it before someone else gets this delicious meat. You can serve it with main dishes while hosting five-star weekend parties for your friends and family!

Conclusion:

The other name for hanger steak is butcher's steak. The tendered cut is a part of the diaphragm muscle. The steak piece has got its name from its position. Though you may find its name odd, this meat piece is rich in flavors, juicy, and extremely tendered.

It is a versatile meat piece that is easier to cook. But, often, your little mistake spoils the taste and flavor of the meat. If you want to cook it correctly, always marinate it for about 24 or at least a few hours. Then, cook it at a high temperature and then at medium heat until it gets cooked completely. The steak is ready to be served, but let it rest for a few minutes before serving!