What To Know
- If the steak is cut immediately, these juices will escape, resulting in a dry and tough texture.
- Keep the steak in a warm place, such as an oven set to 200°F (93°C), to maintain its temperature while resting.
- So, next time you grill or pan-sear a hanger steak, remember to let it rest and savor the culinary delight that awaits.
Hanger steak, often referred to as the “butcher’s steak,” is a highly flavorful and tender cut of beef that requires proper resting to achieve its optimal texture and taste. So, how long should you let hanger steak rest?
The Science Behind Resting Hanger Steak
When hanger steak is cooked, the proteins within the muscle fibers contract, squeezing out juices. If the steak is cut immediately, these juices will escape, resulting in a dry and tough texture. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, creating a more evenly tender and juicy result.
Optimal Resting Time
The ideal resting time for hanger steak depends on its thickness. As a general rule, follow these guidelines:
- Thin hanger steak (less than 1 inch thick): Rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Medium hanger steak (1-1.5 inches thick): Rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Thick hanger steak (over 1.5 inches thick): Rest for 20-25 minutes.
How to Rest Hanger Steak
1. Remove from heat: Once the hanger steak reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the heat source.
2. Tent with foil: Loosely cover the steak with aluminum foil to create a tent-like structure. This allows air to circulate while preventing moisture loss.
3. Let it rest: Allow the steak to rest for the recommended amount of time before slicing and serving.
Benefits of Resting Hanger Steak
Proper resting provides numerous benefits, including:
- Improved tenderness: Resting allows the muscle fibers to relax, resulting in a more tender texture.
- Enhanced juiciness: Resting time allows the juices to redistribute, creating a more succulent and flavorful steak.
- Reduced shrinkage: Resting prevents excessive moisture loss, minimizing shrinkage and preserving the steak’s size.
- Optimized flavor: Resting allows the steak’s natural flavors to develop, creating a more complex and satisfying taste experience.
Slicing and Serving
Once the hanger steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This will further enhance its tenderness and make it easier to chew. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the succulent and flavorful results.
Tips for Resting Hanger Steak
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure accurate internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Rest on a wire rack: This allows air to circulate around the steak, preventing it from steaming and becoming soggy.
- Avoid cutting too soon: Patience is key. Allow the steak to rest the full recommended time for optimal results.
- Rest in a warm environment: Keep the steak in a warm place, such as an oven set to 200°F (93°C), to maintain its temperature while resting.
The Bottom Line: The Art of Resting Hanger Steak
Mastering the art of resting hanger steak is essential for unlocking its full potential. By following the guidelines provided, you can ensure that your hanger steak is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. So, next time you grill or pan-sear a hanger steak, remember to let it rest and savor the culinary delight that awaits.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Why is it important to rest hanger steak?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in improved tenderness, juiciness, and flavor.
2. How long should I rest a 1.25-inch thick hanger steak?
Rest for 15-20 minutes.
3. Can I skip resting hanger steak?
Skipping resting will result in a drier and tougher steak.
4. What is the best way to tent aluminum foil over hanger steak?
Loosely cover the steak, leaving space for air circulation.
5. Can I rest hanger steak for longer than recommended?
Yes, but excessive resting time can result in a loss of flavor and texture.
