How long does it take to grill a picanha?

It depends on the method and thickness. For steaks, around 3–5 minutes per side plus rest time. For a whole roast on indirect heat, expect about 30–40 minutes total, aiming for 130°F internal temp.

Is picanha good for grilling?

Absolutely. Picanha is ideal for grilling because of its rich marbling and fat cap that bastes the meat during cooking. It holds up beautifully to high heat.

What kind of meat is picanha?

Picanha is the top sirloin cap, a tender, flavorful cut from the rump area. It’s especially popular in Brazilian cuisine and often grilled over open flame or charcoal.

What is the best way to cook picanha?

Grilling over high heat with minimal seasoning is best. Whether cooked as steaks or whole, sear the fat cap first, then finish over indirect heat to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Grilled Picanha Mastery – 5 Steps to Perfect Brazilian Steak

Name: Grilled Picanha
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 whole picanha (top sirloin cap), ~2.5–3 lbs; 2 tbsp kosher salt; Optional: Chimichurri or salsa verde for serving

Description

Learn how to grill picanha—the iconic Brazilian steak—with simple ingredients and bold flavor. Perfectly crisp fat cap and juicy slices await.

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole picanha (top sirloin cap), ~2.5–3 lbs

2 tbsp kosher salt

Optional: Chimichurri or salsa verde for serving

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Instructions

1. Score the fat cap in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.

2. Generously salt all sides of the picanha and let rest for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat grill with two heat zones: direct and indirect.

4. Sear fat side down over direct heat for 4–5 minutes until crisp.

5. Flip and sear meat side for 2–3 minutes.

6. Move to indirect heat, close lid, and cook until internal temp reaches 130°F.

7. Rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

8. Serve with chimichurri and your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not trim the fat cap—it’s essential for flavor.

Always slice against the grain for tenderness.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 oz
Calories: 425
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 100mg