So, you've decided to embark on the adventure of making Brazilian Churrasco from home or perhaps you're a seasoned Brazilian Churrasco Master looking to diversify your culinary repertoire. Regardless of your expertise, venturing into the world of Brazilian BBQ is simpler than one might think.
For those starting their journey into crafting homemade Churrasco using Brazilian Espetos (skewers), certain essentials are required. Firstly, acquiring the right Brazilian Skewers is crucial. Not all skewers are the same, and the choice depends on your cooking tool. Whether you're using a brick Churrasqueira, a cut barrel, a professional Churrasqueira, or modifying a kettle grill, the skewer selection is influenced by the size and shape of your cook box and the weight of the chosen meat.
Choosing the appropriate skewer is a personal preference, and you can find recommendations on specific skewer styles and sizes here. Once your Churrasqueira and Brazilian Espetos are in place, let's explore 9 must-try Churrasco Meats!
How to Cook Churrasco de Picanha (Pea-CON-ya) Top Sirloin
In the world of Brazilian Churrasco, Picanha stands as the undisputed champion and the most coveted Brazilian cut. Its triangle shape, half a centimetre to one centimetre fat layer, and distinctive marbling make it a tender, juicy, and richly flavoured delicacy. Trim the fat, cut it into three strips, fold each in half, and skewer them into the signature "C" shape.
Caution is needed during skewering to avoid catching your hand in the process. Apply Sal Grosso (Thick Salt) liberally to all sides, including the fat layer. Grill about 10 inches from the heat, flipping every minute for even cooking. The rendered fat and salt create the perfect Picanha.
Alcatra (Al-KAH-tra) Center Sirloin Roast
Directly beneath Picanha is Alcatra, a cut with flavour rivalling Ribeye and Picanha. Season with thick salt, and for added flavour, insert garlic cloves into the meat. Skewer with large Brazilian Skewers, use oil for marbling, and grill at least 10 inches from the coals. Achieve a beautiful sear, slice thinly, and savour the seasoned Alcatra.
Carne de Alho (Car-ne Dje ahl-yo) Garlic Sirloin
Using Alcatra or top sirloin roast, cut into cubes and season with kosher salt and garlic powder or create a quick marinade. Skewer and cook to medium-rare to medium for optimal texture and flavour.
Medalhão com Bacon – (medal-yaow-n Kome Bay-con) Bacon Wrapped Center-Cut Sirloin
Use sirloin cuts, trim excess fat, and cut into 4cm cubes. Wrap with regular-cut bacon, skewer, and sear. Move to lower heat for a perfect medium-rare finish.
Peru com Bacon(Peh-ROO Kome Bay-con) Turkey wrapped in Bacon
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey, a Brazilian Churrascaria staple, pairs lean turkey breast with bacon. Wrap turkey cubes with bacon, skewer, and ensure internal temperature reaches 75˚C. Optional seasonings include salt, pepper, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes.
Coxa de Frango (ko-sha dje Fran-go) BBQ Chicken Thigh
Skin-on chicken thighs offer a golden brown, crispy texture. Trim excess skin, season with your favourite rub, skewer, and cook till skin turns golden brown. Serve when internal temperature reaches 75˚C, either whole or sliced.
Coração de Frango (Cor-ah-Sow-N dje Frahn-go) BBQ Chicken Hearts
Chicken hearts, popular in Brazil, are simple to prepare. Skewer with a small-width Brazilian Espeto, cook over flames, and add lime juice for enhanced flavour. Marinating with garlic, salt, lime juice, and olive oil is optional for an extra kick.
Legumes (Lay-goom-es) Grilled Vegetables
Select your favourite veggies like zucchini, onions, tomatoes, cauliflower, peppers, mushrooms, and corn. Marinate with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Skewer and grill, turning frequently until softened, then sear for a slight char.
Abacaxi (Ah-bah-kuh-SHEE) Brazilian Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple, a sweet Churrasco dessert, offers a delightful end to your meal. Marinate pineapple slices with brown sugar and grill until caramelized. Serve last for a perfect Brazilian Churrasco Dessert.
Each of these recipes equips you with the tools for a successful Churrasco experience. Mastery comes with practice and persistence. Enjoy your Churrasco Journey!