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