Description
This 2-Ingredient Grilled Garlic Picanha Steak recipe highlights the rich, beefy flavors of the top sirloin cap, perfectly complemented by garlic butter. Grilled to medium-rare, the steak is seared on the fat side to render and crisp the fat layer, resulting in a juicy, tender, and flavorful experience that’s simple yet indulgent.
Ingredients
Steak
- 3 pounds picanha steak (top sirloin cap), trimmed, with one layer of fat remaining
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons garlic butter (store-bought or homemade), plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F. If using charcoal, ensure the coals have burned down to emit a consistent heat.
- Season the steak: Lightly brush the picanha steak on all sides with olive oil. Generously season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Position the steak on the grill: Place the picanha steaks on their edges with the fat side down onto the grill. If needed, lean the steaks against each other for stability.
- Render and crisp the fat: Grill the fat side for about 4 minutes, taking care to keep it away from direct flames, until the fat renders and crisps up beautifully.
- Cook the steak: Lay the steak flat on the grill and cook, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly, for 10-12 minutes or until your preferred doneness is reached; medium-rare is recommended for optimal juiciness.
- Add garlic butter: During the last few minutes of grilling, spoon garlic butter on top of the steak, allowing it to melt and infuse the meat with garlicky richness.
- Rest the steak: Remove the picanha from the grill and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to retain juices and finish cooking evenly.
- Slice and serve: Slice the steak against the grain into thick slices and serve with extra garlic butter spooned over the top for indulgent flavor.
Notes
- Resting the steak is crucial to retain juiciness; do not skip this step.
- Slicing against the grain ensures tenderness in each bite.
- If you prefer your steak more cooked, extend grilling time slightly but avoid overcooking to preserve flavor.
- You can make your own garlic butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and herbs for a fresher taste.
- This recipe is excellent when paired with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Brazilian