Grilled Picanha with Coffee Crust and Cashew-Bell Pepper Vinaigrette
This Brazilian recipe features picanha, a prized beef cut, coated in an aromatic coffee crust. It's served with a fresh and vibrant cashew and bell pepper vinaigrette, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs Picanha (beef sirloin cap with fat cap)
- 3 tbsp Ground coffee (espresso or dark roast)
- 2 tbsp Coarse sea salt
- 1 tbsp Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 cup Unsalted roasted cashews
- 1 Red bell pepper
- 1/2 Red onion
- 1/2 Mild chili (or a bit of bird's eye chili if you like spicy)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tbsp White wine vinegar
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the picanha by scoring the fat cap in a crosshatch pattern, without cutting into the meat. Mix the ground coffee, coarse sea salt, and pepper to create the rub.
- 2
Generously rub the picanha with the coffee mixture, focusing on the fat cap. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- 3
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the picanha fat-side down on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes until the fat is golden and crispy.
- 4
Flip the picanha and continue cooking for 15-20 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust to your preference. Use a meat thermometer for desired doneness (around 57°C/135°F for medium-rare).
- 5
While the meat is cooking, prepare the vinaigrette: finely chop the cashews, red bell pepper, red onion, and chili (if using).
- 6
In a bowl, combine the chopped ingredients with cilantro, parsley, lime juice, white wine vinegar, and olive oil. Season to taste.
- 7
Once the picanha is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- 8
Serve the sliced picanha with the cashew and bell pepper vinaigrette on the side.
Chef's Tips
- •For a more intense coffee crust, feel free to slightly increase the amount of ground coffee.
- •Resting the meat after cooking is crucial for evenly distributed juices and tender meat.
- •The vinaigrette can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, but add fresh herbs just before serving.
Recommended Equipment
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