Hanger Steak vs. Skirt Steak: Key Differences Explained

What is Hanger Steak?

Hanger steak, also known as “butcher’s steak” or “ongleé” in French, is a flavorful beef cut from the plate section of the cow near the diaphragm. It is called a “hanger” because it “hangs” from the diaphragm. This cut is often considered a hidden gem because butchers historically kept it for themselves due to its exceptional flavor.

Characteristics of Hanger Steak:

1. Texture: Hanger steak is tender, though slightly more fibrous than premium cuts like filet mignon.
2. Flavor Profile: It has a bold, beefy flavor, often described as rich and slightly gamey.
3. Appearance: The steak is oblong and contains a thick, inedible membrane in the middle that must be removed before cooking. This leaves two long pieces of steak.
4. Availability: It is a relatively small cut, with only one per animal, making it less common and slightly pricier than skirt steak.

Common Uses:

Hanger meat cut shines in recipes that emphasize its bold flavor. Popular preparations include:

• Grilling with a marinade
• Serving with chimichurri or sauces
• Using in steak salads or tacos

What is Skirt Steak?

Skirt steak is another cut from the plate section of the cow, but it’s distinct from hanger steak. There are two types of skirt steak: the inside skirt (inside the rib cage) and the outside skirt (from the chest wall). Both are long, thin cuts with a pronounced grain.

Characteristics of Skirt Steak:

1. Texture: Skirt steak is known for its chewy texture due to its long muscle fibers.
2. Flavor Profile: It has a robust, slightly sweet beef flavor that works well with marinades.
3. Appearance: Skirt steak is thinner and broader than hanger steak, with a pronounced grain that runs across its length.
4. Availability: It is more commonly found in grocery stores and butcher shops than hanger steak.

Common Uses:

Skirt steak is incredibly versatile and works well in dishes that require slicing. Popular preparations include:

• Fajitas
• Stir-fries
• Grilled steak sandwiches
• Korean BBQ-style dishes

Key Differences Between Hanger Steak and Skirt Steak

While hanger steak and skirt steak share similarities, they differ in several crucial ways:

1. Texture

• Hanger Steak: More tender, making it closer in texture to cuts like ribeye.
• Skirt Steak: Chewy and fibrous, requiring careful slicing against the grain for optimal tenderness.

2. Flavor

• Hanger Steak: Rich, beefy, and slightly gamey.
• Skirt Steak: Robust and slightly sweeter.

3. Shape and Size

• Hanger Steak: Thicker and shorter, often yielding two smaller pieces.
• Skirt Steak: Long, thin, and wide, making it ideal for recipes requiring strips of meat.

4. Cooking Methods

• Hanger Steak is best-cooked medium-rare and benefits from a quick sear or grilling.
• Overcooking can lead to toughness.
• Skirt Steak is well-suited to high-heat methods like grilling, broiling, or stir-frying. It’s forgiving when cooked slightly longer but should still be served medium-rare to medium.

5. Price and Availability

• Hanger Steak: More expensive and harder to find due to its limited quantity per animal.
• Skirt Steak: More affordable and widely available.

Cooking Tips for Hanger Steak

1. Preparation: Trim the membrane and excess fat if your butcher hasn’t already done so.
2. Marinade: While hanger steak is flavorful, marinating it for 2-4 hours can enhance its taste. Use olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and fresh herbs.

Cooking Method:

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill to high heat.
2. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
3. Resting: Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
4. Slicing: Always cut against the grain to maximize tenderness.

Cooking Tips for Skirt Steak

1. Preparation: Remove any silver skin or excess fat. Skirt steak’s prominent grain means slicing against it after cooking is essential.
2. Marinade: Skirt steak’s thin structure absorbs marinades well. Try citrus-based marinades with lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic for a fajita-style flavor.

Cooking Method:

1. Preheat a grill or skillet to high heat.
2. Cook each side for 2-4 minutes to achieve a good sear.
3. Resting: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Slicing: Cut into thin strips against the grain to enhance tenderness.

Substituting Hanger Steak for Skirt Steak (and Vice Versa)

While these two cuts can sometimes be used interchangeably, their differences should be considered:

1. In Tacos or Fajitas: Both cuts work well, but skirt steak’s thin and long shape makes it easier to slice into strips.
2. In Steak Salads: Hanger steak’s tenderness makes it preferable for salads.
3. For Grilling: Both cuts shine on the grill, but hanger steak is slightly more forgiving if cooked properly.

If substituting, be mindful of the cooking time and slicing technique to bring out the best in either cut.

Choosing between hanger steak and skirt steak ultimately depends on your recipe, budget, and flavor preferences.

Go for Hanger Steak:

If you want a rich, intensely beefy flavor and a tender texture that works beautifully in steak-forward dishes. The hanger steak's boldness makes it a star on the plate, ideal for dishes where the meat takes center stage, such as steak salads or alongside chimichurri. Its limited availability and slightly higher price make it a memorable occasion cut.

Opt for Skirt Steak:

If you need a versatile, economical cut that excels in recipes requiring thin beef strips, such as fajitas, stir-fries, or tacos. Its robust flavor pairs excellently with bold marinades and high-heat cooking methods. Skirt steak's affordable price and availability make it a go-to option for everyday meals or feeding more prominent groups.

Ultimately, both cuts bring something unique, so let your recipe and occasion guide your choice. If you're hosting a casual taco night, skirt steak may be your best bet. Hanger steak is the way to go for a date night or a dish where tenderness and deep flavor are key.

About One Stop Halal

Welcome to your favorite Butcher Shop. We carry various meat cuts that are hard to find elsewhere. We deliver to your doorstep anywhere in the United States within 1-2 business days.