🥩 Brazilian Picanha: The Star of Churrasco 🥩

If you’re a fan of grilling, Picanha might just become your new favorite cut of beef. Known as the “queen of cuts” in Brazil, this top sirloin cap with its signature fat layer is a must-have at Brazilian churrascarias. It’s simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, making it the perfect dish for gatherings and barbecues.

DALL·E 2024-11-23 19.21.03 - A vibrant dish of Brazilian Picanha steak served on a wooden platter, with a crispy, golden-brown fat cap, surrounded by side dishes of rice, black be

What Makes Picanha Special?

Picanha is not your typical steak. What sets it apart is its fat cap, which plays a starring role in the cooking process. The fat melts as it grills, basting the meat to keep it tender and juicy while forming a crispy, flavorful crust. While it’s widely celebrated in Brazil, Picanha has gained international fame in recent years, especially among BBQ enthusiasts.

In countries like the U.S., where it’s less common, butchers may split Picanha into other cuts, such as sirloin or rump roast. But once you experience it cooked the traditional way, you’ll understand why Brazilians hold it so dear.

How to Cook Picanha Like a Pro

Making the perfect Picanha is surprisingly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Serve and Enjoy: Slice it thinly against the grain and pair it with Brazilian sides like rice, black beans, or chimichurri.

Choose the Right Cut: Look for a well-marbled piece with a thick fat cap (around ¼ inch).

Keep it Simple: Season generously with coarse salt. Some like a touch of black pepper, but the focus should be on the meat’s natural flavors.

Grill to Perfection: In Brazilian tradition, Picanha is skewered into a horseshoe shape and grilled over open flames. Start with the fat side down to render the fat and create a crispy crust. Flip and cook the other side until it reaches your desired doneness (medium rare is highly recommended).

Let it Rest: Resting the meat for 10 minutes locks in the juices, ensuring every slice is mouthwatering.

Why You’ll Love It

Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just experimenting with new cuts of meat, Picanha offers a balance of flavor, texture, and presentation that few other cuts can match. Its smoky, juicy slices are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it pairs beautifully with bold red wines or Brazil’s iconic caipirinha cocktail.

The Cultural Charm of Picanha

Picanha isn’t just food in Brazil—it’s an experience. At a traditional churrasco, families and friends gather around to enjoy skewers of grilled meats, lively music, and a warm, festive atmosphere. Serving Picanha at your next event brings a slice of this Brazilian spirit to your table.