Know Your Meat - Picanha
Book NowPicanha steak is a popular cut of beef that originated in Brazil and has been gaining popularity in the UK. We at Zelman are proud to offer it on our menu, showcasing and serving only the finest steak in all of London. Sample the savoury, delicious beefiness of the iconic picanha steak for yourself when you book a table at Zelman.
What is Picanha steak?
Picanha steak, also known as top sirloin cap or coulotte, is a mouth-watering cut of beef that has become a sensation in the UK. This tender and juicy Brazilian delicacy is a favourite among steak lovers, and for good reason.
Picanha steak is cut from the top sirloin, a prime section of beef known for its rich marbling and intense flavour. It is characterised by a thick cap of fat that sits on top, which adds a deliciously juicy and buttery texture to the meat when cooked. The fat also imparts a depth of flavour that is simply irresistible. What sets picanha steak apart from other cuts is its unique shape. It is typically triangular in shape, with the fat cap still intact. This shape not only adds visual appeal to the steak but also helps to retain moisture and flavour during the cooking process.
Where does Picanha steak come from?
This succulent cut of beef hails from the southern regions of Brazil, where it has long been a staple in Brazilian cuisine. In Brazil, picanha steak is highly regarded and celebrated for its incredible taste and texture. It is a popular choice for traditional barbecues, known as churrascos, where it is expertly grilled and served to eager diners.
As the demand for unique and exceptional steaks has grown, adventurous food enthusiasts and chefs have started to explore different cuts of meat from around the world. This exploration led them to discover the iconic picanha steak, with its remarkable marbling and robust flavour. Now, picanha steak has firmly established itself as a star on menus in high-end establishments and steakhouses throughout the UK. Its popularity continues to soar as more and more people experience the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and irresistible flavour of this Brazilian favourite.
Picanha steak flavour
Picanha steak is a true culinary masterpiece, renowned for its exceptional taste. As you take your first bite, you'll be greeted by a rich and robust beefy flavour that lingers on your palate. The marbling of the top sirloin cut ensures every mouthful is tender and succulent, with the perfect balance of juiciness and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The thick cap of fat that sits on top of the steak adds a heavenly buttery texture that elevates the overall taste to new heights.
Cooked to perfection at Zelman Meats, our picanha steak boasts a charred exterior that seals in all the juices, whilst the interior remains perfectly pink and tender. The fat renders during cooking, infusing the meat with a decadent flavour that will leave you craving more. Whether you prefer your steak medium-rare or medium, each bite is a testament to the outstanding quality and taste of picanha.
Picanha steak pairings
Picanha steak is a true culinary masterpiece that can be enjoyed on its own, but for those looking to elevate their dining experience, the robust and beefy flavour of picanha steak pairs perfectly with a bold red wine. Opt for a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Malbec to complement the richness of the steak. The tannins in these wines will help to cut through the fat and enhance the overall flavour. If you're more of a beer connoisseur, Picanha steak also pairs beautifully with a hoppy IPA or a smooth and malty Porter. The hoppy bitterness of the IPA helps to balance out the richness of the steak, while the roasted malts in the Porter provide a velvety smoothness that pairs wonderfully with this delicious cut of steak.
Picanha steak London
At Zelman Meats, we believe that a perfectly cooked steak is a work of art. Our chefs have mastered the art of cooking picanha steak to perfection, ensuring that every bite is perfectly cooked and expertly seasoned. When you dine with us, you can expect a dining experience that is second to none.
The Zelman menu includes a range of other incredible cuts of beef, all cooked with expert attention and served lovingly. From classic fillet to juicy ribeye, and of course, the delectable picanha. Whatever you order at Zelman, it will absolutely be a sensation. Pair your steak at Zelman Meats with a tall glass of bold red, a house cocktail, or a simple hoppy beer and indulge every sense in one of London’s most relaxed steakhouses. Pair your cut with a delicious fresh sauce, order some sides for the table and mark the day you finally got to sink your teeth into the delectable picanha.
Centrally Located
You’ll find some of the best picanha steak in the UK at Zelman Meats, located in Knightsbridge. The restaurant is located on the fifth floor of Harvey Nicholls Knightsbridge, just a stone's throw from Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, and of course just seconds from all the shopping possibilities of Harvey Nicholls.
The nearest tube station is Knightsbridge, which is on the Piccadilly line. The station is just a 2-minute walk from the restaurant, as well as several bus stops near Zelman Meats. The nearest bus stop is on Sloane Street, just a short walk from the restaurant.
