Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak: The Ultimate Recipe for Flavor

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak: Just the name alone conjures up images of sizzling, perfectly seared meat, doesn’t it? I’m about to share a recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to a Brazilian churrascaria, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Forget complicated marinades and hours of preparation; this method is surprisingly simple, yet delivers an explosion of flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds.

Brazilian steak, particularly the picanha cut, is a staple in Brazilian cuisine, often cooked over an open flame and sliced tableside. The beauty of this cut lies in its rich marbling and a generous fat cap, which renders down during cooking, basting the meat in its own delicious juices. While traditionally cooked over charcoal, this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak recipe adapts beautifully to a skillet or grill, making it accessible to home cooks everywhere.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures – a beautifully browned, slightly crispy exterior giving way to a tender, juicy interior. The garlic butter sauce, infused with herbs and spices, elevates the steak to another level of deliciousness. People love this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak because it’s both incredibly flavorful and relatively quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable steak experience!

Ingredients:

• For the Steak:
• 2 lbs Brazilian Picanha steak (or top sirloin cap), about 1.5-2 inches thick
• 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• For the Garlic Butter:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional Garnishes:
• Extra fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Preparing the Garlic Butter:

Okay, let’s get started with the garlic butter. This is what’s going to take our Brazilian steak to the next level. Trust me, you’ll want to slather this on everything!

1. Soften the Butter: Make sure your butter is nice and soft. You can leave it out at room temperature for about an hour, or if you’re in a hurry, microwave it in 10-second intervals until it’s pliable but not melted. We want it soft enough to easily mix with the other ingredients.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Mix Well: Use a fork or a spoon to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Make sure the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
4. Chill (Optional): For best results, I like to chill the garlic butter for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just let it soften slightly before using. You can also roll the butter into a log using parchment paper and chill it. This makes it easy to slice off rounds of garlic butter to top the steak later.

Preparing the Steak:

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show – the Brazilian Picanha steak! This cut is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, especially when cooked properly. If you can’t find Picanha, a good quality top sirloin cap will work as a substitute.

1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Moisture is the enemy of a beautiful crust!
2. Score the Fat Cap (Optional but Recommended): If your Picanha has a thick fat cap (and it should!), score it in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the fat render properly and prevents the steak from curling up during cooking. Be careful not to cut into the meat itself, just the fat. I usually make cuts about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
3. Season Generously: This is where the magic happens. Generously season the steak on all sides with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy! The salt will help create a delicious crust and enhance the flavor of the beef. I use about 1 tablespoon of sea salt per pound of steak.
4. Let it Rest: Allow the steak to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even up to an hour. This helps the steak cook more evenly. Taking the chill off the meat allows it to relax and cook more consistently from edge to center.

Cooking the Steak:

There are several ways to cook a Brazilian steak, but my favorite is grilling. It gives the steak a smoky flavor and a beautiful sear. You can also pan-sear it or broil it in the oven if you don’t have a grill.

Grilling Method:

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat. You want it screaming hot! A hot grill is essential for creating that perfect sear.
2. Grill the Steak: Place the steak on the hot grill, fat-cap side down (if applicable). Sear for 4-5 minutes, or until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. Don’t move the steak around during this time; let it develop that beautiful sear.
3. Flip and Cook: Flip the steak and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, aim for 135-145°F (57-63°C).
4. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm.

Pan-Searing Method:

1. Prepare the Pan: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat. Add a tablespoon of high-heat oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil.
2. Sear the Steak: Once the oil is shimmering and almost smoking, carefully place the steak in the hot pan, fat-cap side down (if applicable). Sear for 4-5 minutes, or until a deep, golden-brown crust forms.
3. Flip and Cook: Flip the steak and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
4. Add Butter (Optional): For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan during the last minute of cooking. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak.
5. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Broiling Method:

1. Preheat the Broiler: Preheat your broiler to high. Place the steak on a broiler pan.
2. Broil the Steak: Broil the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Keep a close eye on the steak to prevent burning.
3. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the broiler and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Slicing and Serving:

Now for the best part – slicing and serving! The way you slice the steak is important for maximizing tenderness. For Picanha, you want to slice against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak easier to chew.

1. Slice Against the Grain: Locate the grain of the meat (the direction the muscle fibers are running). Use a sharp knife to slice the steak thinly, perpendicular to the grain.
2. Top with Garlic Butter: Place the sliced steak on a serving platter and top with generous dollops of the prepared garlic butter. The heat from the steak will melt the butter, creating a luscious sauce.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the steak immediately and enjoy!

Enjoy! This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of the flavorful steak and the rich, garlicky butter is simply irresistible. I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak recipe isn’t just another steak dish; it’s an experience. The combination of the perfectly seared steak, infused with the rich, savory garlic butter, creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. I truly believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, a go-to for special occasions or even a weeknight treat when you want something truly exceptional.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers restaurant-quality results. The garlic butter, with its blend of fresh garlic, herbs, and creamy butter, elevates the steak to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s the kind of meal that impresses guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a perfectly cooked, flavorful steak?

But the best part is the versatility. While I’ve shared my favorite method, feel free to experiment! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. If you’re a fan of herbs, try incorporating fresh rosemary or thyme. You can even adjust the amount of garlic to suit your personal preference. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

* Serve this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus for a classic and satisfying meal.
* For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh salad and grilled vegetables.
* Slice the steak thinly and use it in tacos or fajitas for a flavorful twist.
* Create a steak sandwich with crusty bread, caramelized onions, and a smear of the garlic butter.
* Don’t forget the chimichurri sauce! A vibrant chimichurri complements the richness of the steak beautifully.

I’ve personally made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone’s mouth water. I’ve even adapted it for different cuts of steak, and it works beautifully with everything from ribeye to sirloin. The key is to ensure you have a good quality steak and don’t overcook it.

Now, it’s your turn! I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak recipe. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to impress your friends and family.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What sides did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create and share recipes that you’ll love. So, go ahead, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy the most delicious steak you’ve ever tasted! Don’t be shy, let me know how your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak turns out! Happy cooking!

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