Description
These grilled picanha skewers bring the bold, juicy flavors of Brazilian steakhouses right to your backyard. With thick, horseshoe-shaped steaks seared over high heat, this method delivers a crisp fat cap, smoky char, and a tender, beefy interior. Perfect for steak nights, summer cookouts, or showing off your grill skills—this is one of the best ways to enjoy picanha at its finest.
Ingredients
-
2.5 to 3 lbs picanha roast (top sirloin cap), fat cap intact
-
1.5 tablespoons coarse kosher salt (or to taste)
-
Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
Optional: 1 teaspoon black pepper
-
Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
-
Metal or thick wooden skewers (pre-soaked if wooden)
Instructions
-
Trim any excess silver skin from the underside of the picanha, but leave the fat cap intact. Score the fat lightly in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
-
Slice the picanha against the grain into 2 to 3-inch thick steaks.
-
Fold each steak into a “C” shape (fat cap on the outside) and thread onto skewers through the thickest part.
-
Season generously with coarse salt. Add garlic powder, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
-
Preheat grill to high heat (around 500°F). Set up for two-zone cooking (direct and indirect heat).
-
Place skewers over direct heat. Sear each side for 3–4 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.
-
Move skewers to indirect heat and continue grilling until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
-
Remove from grill and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
-
Slice off the skewered steaks against the grain and serve immediately with chimichurri or your favorite sides.
Notes
-
For extra smokiness, grill over lump charcoal or add soaked wood chips to a gas grill.
-
Use a digital thermometer for accurate doneness.
-
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
-
Pairs perfectly with garlic rice, roasted potatoes, or grilled asparagus.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: DINNER
- Method: Main Course
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: ~420 per serving
- Fat: ~28g
- Carbohydrates: ~38g