How To Cook Hanging Tender Steak

Unlock the Flavors: A Guide to Mastering the Hanging Tender Steak

Do you want to impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering steak that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor? Look no further than the hanging tender steak! This lesser-known cut of beef, also known as the hanger steak, is a hidden gem that when prepared correctly, can rival any premium steak on the market. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of cooking the perfect hanging tender steak.

1. Choosing the Cut

It all starts with selecting a high-quality hanging tender steak. Look for a well-marbled piece with a deep red color for optimal tenderness and flavor. This cut is typically found at the lower belly of the cow and is shaped like a long, thin strip.

2. Preparing the Steak

• Remove the hanging tender steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.
• Season the steak generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or marinades to enhance the flavors even further.

3. The Perfect Sear

For that delicious caramelized crust, you need a hot and properly preheated skillet or grill. Follow these steps:

• Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s smoking hot.
• Add a small amount of oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or avocado oil, to the skillet.
• Place the steak into the pan and let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.

4. Achieving the Ideal Temperature

While personal preferences may vary, the hanging tender steak is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium. Use a meat thermometer to ensure a perfect cooking temperature:

• For medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C).
• For medium steak, aim for an internal temperature of about 140°F (60°C).

5. Let it Rest

Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the hanging tender steak from the heat source and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

6. Slice and Serve

Now comes the moment of truth – slicing and serving your perfectly cooked hanging tender steak! To showcase its tenderness, slice the meat against the grain into thin strips. This cut is known for its rich beefy flavor and buttery texture, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to fresh seasonal vegetables.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking a hanging tender steak, you are ready to dazzle your guests with your culinary skills. This underrated cut of beef is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. So, fire up the grill or heat up the skillet, and get ready to savor the mouthwatering flavors of a perfectly cooked hanging tender steak!