What To Know
- Due to its compact size and thinness, hanger steak grills quickly, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak and ensure it has reached your desired level of doneness.
- Brush the steak with a flavorful sauce or marinade during the last few minutes of grilling to add extra flavor and moisture.
If you’re a grilling enthusiast, you know that hanger steak is a cut that packs a punch of flavor. But to truly savor its juicy goodness, you need to get the grilling time just right. In this guide, we’ll dive into the intricacies of grilling hanger steak, exploring the optimal grilling times and temperatures for different degrees of doneness.
Understanding Hanger Steak
Hanger steak, also known as “butcher’s steak,” is a long, flat cut located beneath the diaphragm of the cow. It’s a well-exercised muscle, which gives it a unique texture that’s both tender and flavorful. Due to its compact size and thinness, hanger steak grills quickly, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Grilling Times for Hanger Steak
The ideal grilling time for hanger steak depends on your desired level of doneness. Here’s a breakdown:
- Rare (120-125°F): 3-4 minutes per side
- Medium-rare (125-130°F): 4-5 minutes per side
- Medium (130-135°F): 5-6 minutes per side
- Medium-well (135-140°F): 6-7 minutes per side
- Well-done (140°F and above): 7-8 minutes per side
Grilling Temperatures
The recommended grilling temperature for hanger steak is medium-high (450-500°F). This high heat will quickly sear the meat, creating a flavorful crust while keeping the interior tender and juicy.
Grilling Instructions
1. Prepare the steak: Remove the hanger steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (450-500°F). Clean the grates with a grill brush.
3. Grill the steak: Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for the recommended time per side, flipping once halfway through.
4. Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak and ensure it has reached your desired level of doneness.
5. Rest the steak: Once the steak is grilled, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Tips for Grilling Hanger Steak
- Use a grill brush to clean the grates before grilling to prevent the steak from sticking.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcook the steak. Hanger steak is best served rare to medium-rare for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- Let the steak rest before slicing and serving. This will ensure that the juices redistribute and the steak remains juicy.
- Serve the hanger steak with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Marinating Hanger Steak
Marinating hanger steak is an optional but effective way to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Here are a few popular marinade options:
- Red wine marinade: Combine 1 cup of red wine, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and a few cloves of minced garlic.
- Herb marinade: Mix 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano), 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Soy sauce marinade: Combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a few cloves of minced garlic.
Marinate the hanger steak for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 24 hours. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry before grilling.
Finishing Touches
Once the hanger steak is grilled to perfection, you can add a few finishing touches to enhance its flavor and presentation.
- Baste the steak: Brush the steak with a flavorful sauce or marinade during the last few minutes of grilling to add extra flavor and moisture.
- Top with compound butter: Place a pat of compound butter (made with herbs, garlic, or other seasonings) on top of the steak as it rests. The butter will melt and add richness and flavor to the meat.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or chives, over the steak before serving for a vibrant and aromatic touch.
What to Serve with Hanger Steak
Hanger steak is a versatile cut that can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:
- Grilled vegetables (such as asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers)
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted potatoes
- Simple salad
- Creamy polenta
- Braised greens
Wrapping Up
Grilling hanger steak is an art form that requires precision and attention to detail. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can master the technique of grilling this flavorful cut and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Remember to experiment with different marinades and finishing touches to elevate the taste of your hanger steak to the next level.
What People Want to Know
Q: What is the ideal grilling temperature for hanger steak?
A: Medium-high (450-500°F)
Q: How long should I grill hanger steak for medium-rare doneness?
A: 4-5 minutes per side
Q: Should I marinate hanger steak before grilling?
A: Marinating is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
