Regarding flavorful cuts of beef, hanger steak and skirt steak are two popular options that often get compared. Both cuts are known for their intense flavour and are favourites for grilling, stir-frying, and searing. However, despite their similarities, hanger and skirt steaks have distinct characteristics that make them better suited for different recipes. This article will explore the differences between hanger and skirt steak and help you decide which is best for your culinary needs.
What is Hanger Steak?
Hanger steak, also known as the “butcher’s steak,” is a cut of beef that comes from the diaphragm area of the cow, hanging between the rib and the loin. This cut is prized for its tenderness and rich, beefy flavour, which makes it a popular choice in upscale restaurants. Its texture is slightly coarse with a good amount of marbling, contributing to its juicy and flavorful bite when appropriately cooked.
Hanger steak is often found in French cuisine, especially in steak frites. While it’s less common in grocery stores than other cuts, its unique flavour makes it well worth seeking out. Because it is naturally tender, hanger steak is best cooked quickly over high heat, grilled or seared in a hot pan.
What is Skirt Steak?
Skirt steak comes from the plate section of the cow, near the belly. It’s a long, thin cut of meat with visible grain known for its bold, beefy flavour. While skirt steak is not as tender as hanger steak, its intense flavour and ability to absorb marinades make it a favourite in many cuisines, especially Latin American dishes like fajitas and stir-fries.
Skirt steak has a more fibrous texture and requires careful cooking to avoid toughness. It is best cooked over high heat for a short period and served medium-rare or medium. Like hanger steak, skirt steak is best when thinly sliced against the grain to ensure a tender bite.
Differences Between Hanger Steak and Skirt Steak
Flavor
Hanger and skirt steaks boast intense flavours but differ in intensity. Hanger steak has a deep, beefy richness that stands out even when seasoned. Skirt steak, on the other hand, has a bolder taste and is known for its ability to soak up marinades, making it perfect for dishes that require strong seasoning or spices.
Texture
Hanger steak is tender and slightly coarse, with a looser grain that makes it melt-in-your-mouth delicious when cooked properly. Skirt steak is more fibrous and can be more challenging if overcooked, but it compensates with a bold flavour that works well with marinades. To minimise toughness, the key to enjoying skirt steak is cooking it quickly and slicing it thinly against the grain.
Cooking Methods
Both cuts are best suited for high-heat, fast cooking methods. Hanger steak can be grilled or pan-seared to perfection, usually served medium-rare to maintain its tenderness. Due to its thinness, skirt steak cooks very quickly on the grill or in a hot pan and is ideal for fajitas, tacos, or stir-fries.
Price and Availability
Hanger steak is often less available in grocery stores because it’s one of the few cuts that butchers traditionally reserved for themselves, hence the nickname “butcher’s steak.” When available, hanger steak can be more expensive due to its limited quantity per cow. Skirt steak is generally more accessible and less costly, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious meals.
Which Cut is Better for Different Recipes?
- Best for Grilling: Hanger steak is ideal for its rich flavour and natural tenderness. It pairs well with simple seasonings and is a fantastic choice for steak frites or serving alongside roasted vegetables.
- Best for Fajitas and Stir-Fries: Skirt steak excels in dishes like fajitas or stir-fries, where its thin cut and bold flavour shine. Marinating skirt steak before cooking enhances its taste, making it an excellent choice for tacos, wraps, and other flavorful dishes.
- Everyday Meals: If you’re looking for a versatile and cost-effective option, skirt steak might be the better choice, as it is more affordable and easily found in grocery stores. Hanger steak is an excellent option for special occasions or when you want to impress due to its rich, steakhouse-quality flavour.
Nutritional Comparison
When comparing the nutritional profiles of hanger steak and skirt steak, both cuts are relatively similar in calories, fat, and protein. On average, both cuts provide around 200-250 calories per serving, with hanger steak containing slightly more fat due to its higher marbling. Both cuts are excellent protein sources, making them great choices for a protein-rich meal.
- Hanger Steak Calories: ~250 per serving
- Skirt Steak Calories: ~200-220 per serving
- Protein Content: Both cuts provide roughly 20-25 grams of protein per serving.
hanger steak vs skirt steak: Which is the best
In the hanger steak vs skirt steak debate, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of dish you want to create. Hanger steak’s rich, tender texture makes it perfect for upscale dishes, while skirt steak’s bold flavour and versatility make it ideal for everyday meals and marinades. Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or stir-frying, both cuts offer delicious results when appropriately prepared. Try them both and see which is your favourite for your next meal!