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December 10, 2024
When it comes to cooking steak, many people turn to the trusty cast iron skillet. And for good reason – the cast iron skillet provides the perfect sear and caramelization, resulting in a mouthwatering crust on the outside of the steak. If you’re looking to try something new, why not cook hanger steak in a cast iron skillet? Hanger steak is a flavorful and tender cut that is often overlooked in favor of more popular cuts like ribeye or filet mignon. But with the right technique, you can turn this humble cut into a restaurant-quality meal.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook hanger steak in a cast iron skillet:
- Start by bringing the steak to room temperature. Take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.
- Next, season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes. You want the skillet to be hot enough to sear the steak.
- Once the skillet is hot, add a drizzle of oil to prevent the steak from sticking. You can use any high smoke point oil like vegetable oil or canola oil.
- Carefully place the steak in the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.
- While the steak is cooking, resist the urge to move it around or press down on it. This will prevent the steak from developing a nice crust.
- After cooking, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.
- Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tender bites.
- Serve the hanger steak with your favorite sides and enjoy!
With this simple method, you can cook hanger steak to perfection in a cast iron skillet. The result is a tender and flavorful steak with a beautiful sear. So next time you’re in the mood for steak, give hanger steak a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Choosing the Perfect Hanger Steak
When it comes to cooking hanger steak in a cast iron pan, selecting the right steak is crucial. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect hanger steak:
1. Look for marbling: Marbling refers to the small veins of fat that run throughout the meat. A good hanger steak should have adequate marbling, as it adds flavor and juiciness to the steak.
2. Check for color: The color of the hanger steak should be a vibrant, deep red. Avoid steaks that have a dull or grayish color, as it may indicate that the meat is old.
3. Consider thickness: Depending on your personal preference, you may want to choose a hanger steak that is thick or thin. Thicker steaks are ideal for a medium-rare or medium doneness, while thinner steaks are great for achieving a more well-done result.
4. Pay attention to the fat content: While hanger steak is known for its rich flavor, you want to ensure that it doesn’t have an excessive amount of fat. Look for steaks with a moderate amount of fat, as it will help enhance the taste without being overwhelming.
5. Opt for grass-fed beef: Whenever possible, choose hanger steak that comes from grass-fed beef. Grass-fed beef tends to have a better taste and texture compared to grain-fed beef.
By considering these tips, you can ensure that you select the perfect hanger steak for your cast iron cooking adventures.
Understanding Hanger Steak
Hanger steak is a popular cut of beef that is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. It is sometimes referred to as “butcher’s steak” or “onglet” in French. This cut comes from the diaphragm muscle of the cow, which hangs between the rib and the loin.
Hanger steak has a long, flat shape with a coarse, loose grain. It is known for its robust, beefy flavor and is often compared to more expensive cuts like ribeye or filet mignon. The texture of hanger steak is tender, but it can be slightly chewy if not cooked properly.
To get the best taste and tenderness out of hanger steak, it is important to marinate it before cooking. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. A simple marinade can be made using ingredients like olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and herbs. Marinate the steak for at least 1 hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
When it comes to cooking hanger steak, using a cast iron skillet is highly recommended. The cast iron skillet provides even heat distribution, which helps to sear the steak and lock in the juices. Preheat the skillet over high heat until it is smoking hot, then add the marinated hanger steak.
Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Use tongs to flip the steak and avoid using a fork, as it can pierce the meat and cause the juices to escape. Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
Resting the hanger steak allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. After resting, slice the steak against the grain to further enhance its tenderness.
Hanger steak is a versatile cut that can be served in many different ways. It can be enjoyed on its own as a main dish or used as a filling for sandwiches or tacos. The robust flavor of hanger steak pairs well with bold sauces and seasonings, such as chimichurri or black peppercorn sauce.
In conclusion, hanger steak is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that can be easily cooked in a cast iron skillet. By marinating the steak and cooking it to the proper temperature, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a meat lover or a cooking enthusiast, hanger steak is definitely worth trying.
Seasoning and Preparing the Steak
Before cooking your hanger steak, it’s important to properly season and prepare it. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Season the steak generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust.
- Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
- Meanwhile, preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. It’s important to properly preheat the skillet to ensure even cooking.
- Add a small amount of oil or butter to the skillet and let it heat up until it starts to shimmer or melt.
- Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the seasoned steak in the pan. Be cautious as it may produce smoke or splatter.
- Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
- During cooking, avoid flipping the steak too frequently as it may prevent a proper sear from forming.
- Once cooked to your liking, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Finally, slice the hanger steak against the grain and serve it immediately for the best taste and texture.
Preheating and Seasoning the Cast Iron Pan
Before cooking hanger steak in a cast iron pan, it is important to preheat and season the pan properly. This will help create a good sear and prevent the steak from sticking to the pan.
To preheat the cast iron pan, place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to heat up for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes hot to touch.
While the pan is preheating, you can start to season it. Seasoning a cast iron pan helps create a non-stick surface and adds flavor to your food. To season the pan, you can follow these steps:
- Wash the cast iron pan with warm water and a mild dish soap. Use a sponge or brush to remove any food residue.
- Rinse the pan thoroughly to ensure all the soap is removed.
- Use a paper towel or a clean cloth to dry the pan completely.
- Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or canola oil to the inside surface of the pan. Be sure to cover the entire surface.
- Place the pan upside down in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
- Let the pan bake for about 1 hour. This will help the oil polymerize, creating a non-stick surface.
- After the hour is up, turn off the oven and let the pan cool down completely before removing it.
- Use a paper towel to remove any excess oil from the pan.
Now, your cast iron pan is preheated and seasoned, ready to cook your hanger steak. Make sure to use oven mitts or a kitchen towel while handling the hot pan.
Cooking the Hanger Steak to Perfection
When it comes to cooking hanger steak, a cast iron pan is the perfect tool to achieve that delicious crust and juicy, tender interior. Follow these steps to cook your hanger steak to perfection:
1. Prep the steak: Start by removing the hanger steak from the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature. This step is essential to ensure even cooking.
2. Season the steak: Generously season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavors.
3. Preheat the cast iron pan: Place the cast iron pan on the stove over medium-high heat and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. You want the pan to be hot before adding the steak.
4. Sear the steak: Add a small amount of oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Carefully place the seasoned hanger steak in the pan, making sure it makes good contact with the surface. Allow the steak to sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
5. Monitor the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F (57°C). Remember that the temperature will continue to rise slightly as the steak rests.
6. Rest the steak: Once the desired internal temperature is reached, remove the steak from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become more tender.
7. Slice and serve: After the resting period, slice the hanger steak against the grain into thin strips. This will maximize tenderness. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Tips:
– Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning and searing of the steak.
– Use a high smoke-point oil like vegetable or canola oil for searing the steak.
– Adjust cooking times according to the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness.
– Experiment with different marinades or rubs to add extra flavor to your hanger steak.
Follow these steps and you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly cooked hanger steak that is crusty on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite side dishes.
FAQ
What is hanger steak and how to cook it?
Hanger steak is a cut of beef that is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. To cook hanger steak in a cast iron skillet, start by patting the steak dry with paper towels and seasoning it with salt and pepper. Preheat the cast iron skillet over high heat, then sear the steak on both sides until it develops a brown crust. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking the steak until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
What seasonings go well with hanger steak?
Hanger steak has a robust flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. You can also marinate the steak in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.
Can you cook hanger steak in a regular pan instead of a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can cook hanger steak in a regular pan if you don’t have a cast iron skillet. However, cast iron skillets are preferred because they hold heat well and allow for even cooking. If using a regular pan, make sure it is hot before adding the steak and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long should I cook hanger steak for medium-rare?
The cooking time for hanger steak depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, you can cook a 1-inch thick hanger steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. However, it’s best to use a meat thermometer to determine the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 145°F (63°C).
Can hanger steak be cooked to well-done?
Yes, hanger steak can be cooked to well-done if that is your preference. However, keep in mind that hanger steak is best when cooked to medium-rare or medium to maintain its tenderness and juiciness. Cooking it to well-done may result in a tougher texture. If you prefer well-done steak, you may want to consider other cuts that are better suited for that level of doneness.