Introduction to Hanger Steak

When it comes to flavorful, tender cuts of beef, few steaks rival the delicious and underrated hanger steak. Sometimes referred to as the “butcher’s steak,” this cut has a rich history and delivers a bold taste profile that’s increasingly sought after by meat lovers across America. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or used in a hearty stew, hanger steak is versatile enough for countless culinary adventures. Here’s everything you need to know about hanger steak.

History of Hanger Steak

Hanger steak earned its distinctive nickname, the “butcher’s steak”, due to its popularity among butchers themselves, who often reserved this flavorful cut for their own enjoyment. Historically less familiar to the general public, hanger steak was considered a hidden gem within butcher shops across Europe and later America. Its name comes from its anatomical location: the hanger steak literally “hangs” from the diaphragm of the cow, providing support to the muscle. This unique positioning contributes to its characteristic tenderness and robust flavor profile.

In France, hanger steak is called “onglet” and is highly regarded in traditional French cuisine, particularly known for its role in the classic dish, “steak frites”. Its increasing popularity in American restaurants has allowed hanger steak to shed its hidden status and claim the spotlight on menus nationwide.

What Type of Meat is Hanger Steak?

Hanger steak is a cut of beef known specifically for its tenderness and deep, beefy flavor. This steak comes from the lower belly area of the cow, situated near the diaphragm. Due to its placement and the nature of the muscle, hanger steak is rich in marbling, which provides it with moisture and flavor.

This cut is ideal for quick-cooking methods like grilling or pan-searing due to its natural tenderness. However, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking hanger steak, as it can become tough if cooked past medium-rare or medium. Cooking hanger steak to medium-rare ensures you experience its peak tenderness and juiciness, accompanied by its robust flavor.

Because hanger steak has pronounced grain fibers, it’s essential to slice it against the grain to maintain maximum tenderness when serving.

Popular Recipes Featuring Hanger Steak

1. Grilled Hanger Steak with Chimichurri

A beloved classic, grilled hanger steak topped with fresh, vibrant chimichurri sauce is a staple in South American cuisine, especially Argentinian cooking. The steak is seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and olive oil, grilled to medium-rare perfection, then sliced thinly against the grain. Chimichurri—a blend of parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and chili flakes—complements the steak’s rich, beefy taste beautifully.

Try this authentic recipe: Grilled Hanger Steak with Chimichurri.

2. Steak Frites

One of the most iconic French dishes, steak frites combines hanger steak grilled or pan-seared to medium-rare, served alongside crispy, golden French fries. Traditionally, this steak is served with a simple sauce such as bearnaise, peppercorn sauce, or herb-infused butter. This straightforward yet deeply satisfying meal emphasizes the steak’s natural flavor.

Explore this classic French recipe here: Classic Steak Frites.

3. Hanger Steak Tacos

In recent years, hanger steak has become a favored cut for tacos thanks to its tender, juicy texture and ability to absorb bold marinades. Typically, the steak is marinated in a combination of lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and spices before being quickly grilled. Served thinly sliced in warm tortillas with fresh salsa, avocado, and lime, hanger steak tacos offer a vibrant and flavorful dining experience.

Here’s a fantastic recipe to try: Hanger Steak Tacos with Cilantro Lime Sauce.

How to Choose and Store Hanger Steak

When purchasing hanger steak, look for cuts with bright red color and visible, even marbling throughout the meat. Avoid pieces that appear dry or dull. Fresh hanger steak should be firm but not hard to the touch.

To store hanger steak properly, refrigerate it in its original packaging if you plan to cook it within two days. If you’re not cooking it immediately, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze it to preserve freshness for up to three months.

Conclusion

Hanger steak, with its unique history and unmatched flavor, is a cut of beef that continues to captivate meat enthusiasts across America. Whether you’re grilling it to perfection for a backyard barbecue, crafting a refined French-inspired dinner, or experimenting with global flavors like tacos, hanger steak promises to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.

Give hanger steak a try, and you’ll quickly understand why it’s no longer the butcher’s best-kept secret.