Gabe's Coffee-Crusted Hanger Steak with Apple, Fennel, and Herb Salad

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Are you tired of the same old steak recipes? Looking for a way to elevate your grilling game and impress your friends and family?

Gabe's Coffee-Crusted Hanger Steak with Apple, Fennel, and Herb Salad
Prep
30 min
Cook
9 min
Total
44 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and stir fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds until toasted and fragrant, for about 1 to 2 minutes.

  2. Transfer the toasted seeds to a spice grinder or food processor. Add coffee, ancho chile pepper, brown sugar, kosher salt, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the grinder or processor.

  3. Grind the mixture until the spice rub reaches a medium-coarse texture.

  4. Cut the steak into 4-ounce pieces and lightly score it with a 1/2-inch x 1/2-inch pattern. Season the steak with salt.

  5. Rub the steak with the prepared spice rub.

  6. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steak in the hot skillet and drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over it.

  7. Cook the steak in the skillet until it is well browned, approximately 4 minutes.

  8. Flip the steak and scatter shallots, smashed garlic, thyme, and butter around it in the skillet.

  9. Continue cooking the steak until it reaches the desired level of doneness, which typically takes an additional 4 to 5 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the center temperature of the steak reaches at least 140 degrees F (60 degrees C).

  10. Allow the steak to rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly.

  11. 11.

About this recipe

Why Gabe's Coffee-Crusted Hanger Steak Will Blow Your Taste Buds Away

Are you tired of the same old steak recipes? Looking for a way to elevate your grilling game and impress your friends and family? Look no further than Gabe's Coffee-Crusted Hanger Steak with Apple Fennel and Herb Salad. This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of coffee with the succulent tenderness of hanger steak for a culinary experience like no other. Let's dive into why this steak recipe will blow your taste buds away.

The Magic of Coffee

Imagine biting into a perfectly seared hanger steak, only to be greeted by a burst of bold flavors. That's what happens when you use coffee as a crust for your steak. The earthy and slightly bitter notes of the coffee complement the savory flavors of the meat, creating a harmonious combination that will leave you craving more. It's like having your morning cup of joe and a delicious steak all in one bite.

Hanger Steak: The Unsung Hero

Hanger steak may not be as well-known as other cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, but it holds its own in terms of flavor and tenderness. This cut comes from the diaphragm of the cow, which means it has a rich marbling and a deep, beefy taste. When cooked to perfection, hanger steak is melt-in-your-mouth tender, making it the ideal canvas for the coffee crust.

Apple Fennel and Herb Salad: The Perfect Pairing

No steak is complete without a side dish that complements its flavors. The apple fennel and herb salad does just that. The crispness of the apples and the freshness of the fennel provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory steak. The herbs add a pop of brightness and a burst of aroma that elevates the entire dish. Together, they create a well-balanced meal that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

While hanger steak is recommended for this recipe, you can certainly use other cuts like ribeye or striploin. Just keep in mind that the cooking time and temperature may vary.

Can I use decaf coffee for the crust?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of caffeine or prefer the taste of decaf coffee, feel free to use it for the crust. The flavors will still be delicious.

Can I make the coffee crust in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the coffee crust ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Just make sure to apply it to the steak right before grilling for the best results.

Can I substitute the apple fennel and herb salad with a different side dish?

Of course! If you're not a fan of apples or fennel, you can substitute the salad with other sides that you enjoy. Some popular options include roasted vegetables or a classic mashed potato.

Can I cook the steak on a stovetop instead of a grill?

Absolutely! If you don't have access to a grill, you can cook the steak on a stovetop using a cast-iron skillet. Just make sure to sear it on high heat for a few minutes on each side, then finish it off in the oven.

Can I marinate the steak before applying the coffee crust?

While marinating the steak can add additional flavor, it's not necessary for this recipe. The coffee crust itself provides plenty of flavor and moisture to the meat.

Can I use a different type of coffee for the crust?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of coffee to find your preferred flavor profile. Whether it's a dark roast or a flavored coffee, the choice is yours.

Can I make this recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! This recipe can be easily scaled up to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and have enough coffee crust to coat all the steaks.

Can I use this coffee crust recipe for other types of meat?

Absolutely! While this recipe is specifically tailored for hanger steak, you can certainly use the coffee crust on other cuts of meat like pork tenderloin or lamb chops. The flavors will still be fantastic.

In conclusion, Gabe's Coffee-Crusted Hanger Steak with Apple Fennel and Herb Salad is a game-changer when it comes to steak recipes. The combination of the coffee crust, tender hanger steak, and refreshing salad creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. So fire up your grill, grab your apron, and get ready to impress everyone with this unforgettable dish. Your taste buds will thank you!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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