What Is Hanger Steak? A Meat Lover's Ultimate Guide

There’s a hidden gem in the world of steaks that deserves more love and attention, and that’s the hanger steak. It’s not your everyday ribeye or filet mignon, but trust me, this cut has a unique charm that’ll make your taste buds dance. If you’re curious about what makes hanger steak so special, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the juicy details, shall we?

Hanger steak isn’t just another cut of meat; it’s a cut with character, flavor, and a story worth telling. For those who haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out on one of the most underrated steaks out there. This isn’t just steak—it’s an experience.

So, whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a curious beginner looking to expand your culinary horizons, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hanger steak. From its origins to how to cook it like a pro, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!

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Table of Contents

• The Origin of Hanger Steak
• Where Does Hanger Steak Come From?
• What Makes Hanger Steak So Flavorful?
• How to Cook Hanger Steak Perfectly
• Delicious Hanger Steak Recipes to Try
• Hanger Steak vs. Other Cuts
• Nutritional Value of Hanger Steak
• Where to Find Hanger Steak
• The Cost of Hanger Steak
• Tips for Buying and Storing Hanger Steak

The Origin of Hanger Steak

Hanger steak, sometimes called "butcher's steak," has an interesting backstory. Back in the day, butchers used to keep this cut for themselves because it was too flavorful and tender to sell at a low price. It’s like they had their own little secret stash of deliciousness. This cut became popular in France first, where it’s known as "onglet," and chefs there have been using it in classic dishes for years.

If you think about it, hanger steak is kind of like the underdog of the steak world. It didn’t get the same fancy reputation as ribeye or filet mignon, but once people started tasting it, word spread fast. Now, it’s becoming more and more popular among foodies and home cooks alike.

Why Did Butchers Love It?

Let’s break it down:

• It’s super flavorful.
• It’s relatively affordable compared to other premium cuts.
• It has a unique texture that’s both tender and slightly chewy.

Butchers knew a good thing when they tasted it, and they weren’t about to let this gem slip through their fingers.

Where Does Hanger Steak Come From?

Alright, let’s talk about the anatomy of the hanger steak. This cut comes from the diaphragm muscle of the cow, which is located near the kidneys. Yeah, I know it sounds a little weird, but trust me, this is where the magic happens. The diaphragm muscle doesn’t get as much exercise as other parts of the cow, which is why it stays tender.

Now, here’s the thing: each cow only has one hanger steak, and it’s usually pretty small. That’s why it’s considered a specialty cut. You won’t find it in every grocery store, but if you do, snatch it up because it’s worth every penny.

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Is It Hard to Find?

Not really, but you might have to put in a little effort. Specialty butchers and high-end grocery stores are your best bet. If you’re shopping at a regular supermarket, you might have to ask the butcher if they have any hanger steak in stock. And hey, if they don’t, maybe they’ll be willing to order some for you. It never hurts to ask, right?

What Makes Hanger Steak So Flavorful?

Let’s talk about the taste, because that’s what it’s all about. Hanger steak has a rich, beefy flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s not as mild as a filet mignon, but it’s not as intense as a ribeye either. It’s like the Goldilocks of steaks—just right.

And here’s the kicker: it’s got a bit of a chew to it, which might sound bad, but trust me, it’s not. That chewiness is what gives it its depth of flavor. It’s like a steak that’s confident in its own skin, you know?

What Gives It That Flavor?

A few things:

• Its location in the cow. The diaphragm muscle is surrounded by a lot of other flavorful parts, so it picks up some of that goodness.
• The marbling. While it’s not as heavily marbled as some other cuts, it still has enough fat to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• The cooking method. More on that later, but how you cook it can really enhance its natural flavors.

How to Cook Hanger Steak Perfectly

Cooking hanger steak is an art, but don’t worry—it’s not as hard as it sounds. The key is to treat it right and not overcook it. Overcooking will turn it into a tough, chewy mess, and nobody wants that. So, let’s break it down step by step.

First, you want to season it generously with salt and pepper. Some people like to add garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor, but honestly, the steak is so good on its own that you don’t need to go overboard.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Preheat your grill or skillet to high heat.
• Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the time if you prefer it more or less done.
• Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping the steak juicy and flavorful.

And there you have it—a perfectly cooked hanger steak. Easy, right?

Delicious Hanger Steak Recipes to Try

Now that you know how to cook hanger steak, let’s talk about some recipes to try. There are so many ways to enjoy this cut, and I’m about to give you a few ideas to get you started.

1. Hanger Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

This is a classic combo that never disappoints. Chimichurri is a herby, tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of hanger steak. You can find recipes online, or you can make your own by mixing parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

2. Grilled Hanger Steak Tacos

Who doesn’t love tacos? Slice your hanger steak thinly and serve it in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. Cilantro, onions, and avocado are always a good call.

3. Hanger Steak Salad

For a lighter option, try slicing your steak thinly and serving it over a bed of greens. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh, flavorful meal.

Hanger Steak vs. Other Cuts

So, how does hanger steak stack up against other cuts? Let’s compare it to a few popular options.

Hanger Steak vs. Skirt Steak

Both cuts are known for their bold flavor, but hanger steak is a bit more tender than skirt steak. Skirt steak is great for fajitas and stir-fries, while hanger steak shines on the grill or in a pan.

Hanger Steak vs. Flank Steak

Flank steak is similar in texture to hanger steak, but it tends to be a little tougher. It’s also larger, so it’s better for feeding a crowd. Hanger steak, on the other hand, is perfect for smaller gatherings.

Nutritional Value of Hanger Steak

If you’re watching your diet, you might be wondering about the nutritional value of hanger steak. Good news—it’s pretty darn healthy. A 3-ounce serving of hanger steak contains about 150 calories, 25 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat. Not too shabby, right?

It’s also a good source of iron and zinc, which are essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting immune function. So, not only is it delicious, but it’s good for you too.

Where to Find Hanger Steak

As I mentioned earlier, hanger steak isn’t as common as some other cuts, but it’s definitely out there if you know where to look. Specialty butchers, farmers’ markets, and high-end grocery stores are your best bets. If you’re shopping online, websites like ButcherBox and Crowd Cow offer hanger steak as part of their selection.

And don’t forget to ask your local butcher. They might have some in the back that they’re willing to sell you. Building a relationship with your butcher is always a good idea—it can open up a whole world of culinary possibilities.

The Cost of Hanger Steak

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—the price. Hanger steak is usually more affordable than cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, but it’s still a premium cut, so you can expect to pay a bit more than you would for ground beef or chuck roast.

On average, hanger steak costs about $8-$12 per pound, depending on where you buy it. Keep in mind that prices can vary based on location and season, so it’s always a good idea to shop around.

Tips for Buying and Storing Hanger Steak

Finally, let’s talk about some tips for buying and storing hanger steak. First, look for a steak that’s bright red and evenly marbled. Avoid any that look gray or have a lot of fat on the outside.

When it comes to storing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or butcher paper and keep it in the coldest part of your fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 6 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in freezer-safe plastic or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent freezer burn.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—everything you need to know about hanger steak. From its origins to how to cook it, we’ve covered it all. So, the next time you’re at the butcher shop or grocery store, don’t be afraid to give hanger steak a try. It might just become your new favorite cut.

And hey, if you’ve got any questions or tips of your own, leave a comment below. I’d love to hear from you. Happy cooking, and see you in the next article!