Grilled Hanger Steak: An Affordable, Flavorful Cut for the Perfect Summer Cookout

Introduction

Grilled hanger steak is an incredibly delicious and affordable cut of meat that's perfect for summer cookouts, barbecues, and any grilling occasion. This underrated cut is known for its intense flavor, tender texture, and relatively low price. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about grilled hanger steak, from selecting the perfect cut to grilling techniques and serving suggestions.

What is Hanger Steak?

Hanger steak is a thin, flavorful cut of beef that comes from the diaphragm of the cow. Its unique position in the animal gives it a distinctive shape and texture. Hanger steak is often referred to as "the butcher's cut" because butchers would often keep this cut for themselves due to its excellent flavor.

Selecting the Perfect Hanger Steak

When choosing a hanger steak, look for a cut that is:

• Red and well-marbled: This indicates a well-aged and flavorful steak.
• Firm to the touch: The steak should not be mushy or soft.
• 1-1.5 inches thick: This thickness will ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking.

Grilling Techniques

Grilling hanger steak is relatively simple, but there are a few key techniques to follow for optimal results:

1. Season the Steak: Season the steak liberally with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
2. Grill Over Direct Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak over direct heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired internal temperature (see table below).
3. Let it Rest: After grilling, let the steak rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Internal Temperatures

The recommended internal temperatures for grilled hanger steak are:

Serving Suggestions

Grilled hanger steak is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• With Chimichurri Sauce: Serve the steak with a fresh and tangy chimichurri sauce made from parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil.
• On a Grilled Vegetable Salad: Combine grilled hanger steak with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, and toss in a light vinaigrette.
• In a Sandwich: Slice the steak thin and serve it on a bun with your favorite sandwich toppings.
• With Roasted Potatoes: Pair the grilled steak with crispy roasted potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Benefits of Hanger Steak

In addition to its delicious flavor, grilled hanger steak also offers several health benefits:

• High in Protein: Hanger steak is a lean cut of meat that is high in protein and essential amino acids.
• Rich in Iron: Hanger steak is a good source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body.
• Low in Fat: Hanger steak is a relatively low-fat cut of meat, making it a healthier choice for grilling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the best grilled hanger steak, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking: Hanger steak is a thin cut that can easily overcook. Be careful not to grill it for too long, or it will become tough and dry.
• Not resting the Steak: Always let the steak rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
• Marinating for too Long: While marinating hanger steak can add flavor, do not marinate it for more than 4 hours. Over-marinating can make the steak mushy.

Step-by-Step Grilling Guide

Ingredients:

• 1 hanger steak
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Remove the hanger steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature.
2. Season the steak liberally with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Brush the steak with olive oil and grill over direct heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired internal temperature.
5. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Stories and Lessons

Story 1:

John was preparing grilled hanger steak for his friends for the first time. He seasoned the steak generously and grilled it over medium-high heat. However, he forgot to let it rest after grilling, and when he cut into it, the juices ran out, leaving the steak dry and tough.

Lesson: Always let the steak rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Story 2:

Mary had marinated her hanger steak for several hours before grilling. However, she forgot to check the marinade, which contained a large amount of acid. When she grilled the steak, it came out mushy and unappetizing.

Lesson: Do not marinate hanger steak for more than 4 hours. Over-marinating can make the steak mushy.

Story 3:

Bob had grilled hanger steak countless times before. However, this time, he decided to experiment with a new recipe that called for a spicy rub. He applied the rub generously to the steak and grilled it over high heat. When he tasted the steak, it was unbearably hot and overpowering.

Lesson: When using a spicy rub, apply it sparingly and grill the steak over medium heat to avoid overwhelming the flavor of the meat.

Effective Strategies

• Buy Hanger Steak from a Butcher: Butchers often have access to higher-quality and better-aged hanger steak than grocery stores.
• Brine the Steak (Optional): Brining the steak in a saltwater solution for several hours before grilling can enhance its flavor and tenderness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Using a meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that the steak reaches your desired internal temperature.
• Serve with a Simple Sauce: A simple sauce, such as chimichurri or a light vinaigrette, can complement the flavor of the steak without overpowering it.

Tips and Tricks

• Score the Steak: Scoring the steak before grilling will help it cook evenly and prevent it from curling up.
• Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Grilling too many steaks at once can overcrowd the grill and result in uneven cooking.
• Use a Grill Brush: Regularly brushing the grill grates will prevent the steak from sticking.
• Let the Steak Come to Room Temperature: Bringing the steak to room temperature before grilling will help it cook more evenly.

Conclusion

Grilled hanger steak is an incredibly flavorful and affordable cut of meat that's perfect for summer grilling. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can enjoy perfectly grilled hanger steak that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. So next time you're planning a cookout or barbecue, don't overlook this underrated gem. Fire up your grill and experience the deliciousness of grilled hanger steak for yourself!