Grilled Hanger Steak: The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Cooked Flavorful Meat

Grilled Hanger Steak is a culinary delight that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts around the world. Known for its rich flavor and tender texture, this cut of beef is often referred to as the “butcher’s steak” because butchers would traditionally keep it for themselves rather than sell it. The history of grilled hanger steak dates back to the early 20th century, particularly in French cuisine, where it was celebrated for its robust taste and ability to absorb marinades beautifully.

What makes grilled hanger steak so beloved is not just its incredible flavor, but also its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a cozy dinner at home, this dish is both convenient and impressive. The juicy, beefy goodness paired with a perfect char from the grill creates a mouthwatering experience that leaves everyone craving more. Join me as we explore the art of grilling hanger steak, and discover why this dish deserves a special place on your dinner table!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds hanger steak
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Marinating the Steak

1. **Prepare the Marinade**: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until well blended. This marinade is going to infuse the steak with incredible flavor. 2. **Season the Steak**: Take your hanger steak and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the marinade adhere better to the meat. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. 3. **Marinate the Steak**: Place the hanger steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but if you have time, overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Preparing the Grill

4. **Preheat the Grill**: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and ashy. For a gas grill, turn on all burners to high. 5. **Clean the Grill Grates**: Once the grill is hot, use a grill brush to clean the grates. This step is essential to prevent sticking and to ensure those beautiful grill marks on your steak. 6. **Oil the Grates**: To further prevent sticking, dip a paper towel in vegetable oil and use tongs to wipe the grill grates. This will create a non-stick surface for your steak.

Cooking the Steak

7. **Remove the Steak from Marinade**: Take the marinated hanger steak out of the refrigerator and remove it from the marinade. Let any excess marinade drip off, but don’t wipe it completely clean; you want some of that flavor on the steak. 8. **Grill the Steak**: Place the hanger steak on the hot grill. For medium-rare, grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving it. This will help develop a nice crust. 9. **Flip the Steak**: After 4-5 minutes, flip the steak using tongs. Grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. If you prefer your steak medium, you may need to add an additional minute or two on each side. 10. **Check for Doneness**: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, you’re looking for about 130°F (54°C). For medium, aim for 140°F (60°C). Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the grill. 11. **Rest the Steak**: Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy steak.

Slicing and Serving

12. **Slice the Steak**: After resting, it’s time to slice the steak. Hanger steak has a grain, so it’s important to slice against the grain for the most tender bites. Cut the steak into thin slices, about 1/2 inch thick. 13. **Serve**: Arrange the sliced steak on a platter. You can drizzle any remaining marinade (that hasn’t touched the raw meat) over the top for added flavor. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Hanger Steak

14. **Choosing the Right Steak**: When selecting your hanger steak, look for a piece that has a good amount of marbling. The fat will render during cooking, adding flavor and tenderness. 15. **Don’t Overcook**: Hanger steak is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium. Overcooking can lead to a tough texture, so keep an eye on the temperature. 16

Conclusion:

In summary, this grilled hanger steak recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. The combination of marinating the steak to perfection and then grilling it to a juicy medium-rare creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Not only is hanger steak incredibly tender and flavorful, but it also offers a unique taste that sets it apart from other cuts of beef. For serving suggestions, I love pairing this grilled hanger steak with a fresh chimichurri sauce for a zesty kick, or you can serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different marinades or spice rubs to customize the flavor to your liking. You could even slice the steak thinly and use it in tacos or sandwiches for a delicious twist! I encourage you to give this grilled hanger steak recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out for you! Happy grilling!

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