Grilled Brazilian picanha is a culinary treasure that captures the heart of Brazil’s barbecue culture. This cut, taken from the top sirloin cap, is celebrated for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it a favorite among meat lovers. Traditionally seasoned simply with coarse sea salt, picanha is grilled over high heat to achieve a perfectly charred exterior while retaining its juicy interior. The distinctive fat cap enhances the meat’s flavor, allowing the juices to infuse throughout as it cooks, resulting in a truly delectable dish.
Picanha is often served at churrascos, festive gatherings where friends and family come together to enjoy grilled meats. Sliced thin and served with accompaniments like rice, black beans, and farofa, this dish embodies the spirit of Brazilian hospitality. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue or a traditional steakhouse, grilled picanha offers an authentic taste of Brazil that is both satisfying and memorable. Its simplicity and quality make it a standout choice for anyone looking to experience the essence of Brazilian cuisine.
Enjoy your delicious grilled Brazilian picanha!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) picanha (top sirloin cap)
- Coarse sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Picanha: Start by trimming excess fat, leaving about a 1/4-inch layer for flavor. Cut the picanha into thick slices, about 1.5 to 2 inches wide, against the grain.
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Season: Generously sprinkle coarse sea salt over the meat. If desired, add black pepper and minced garlic for additional flavor. Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
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Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. If using charcoal, ensure the coals are hot and glowing. For gas grills, set to high.
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Grill the Picanha: Place the picanha slices on the grill, fat side down. Grill for about 4-6 minutes, or until a nice crust forms. Flip the meat and grill for another 4-6 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting time for desired doneness.
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Rest and Serve: Remove the picanha from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve thinly sliced, traditionally with rice, beans, and farofa.
Here's a video we recomend you to watch if you want to know how to prepare a delicious and authentic grilled Brazilian Picanha:
We hope you enjoy!