Alcatra: Top Sirloin The Churrasco Way

Alcatra is a specialty sirloin cut that we bring back seasonally at Texas de Brazil. But what, exactly, is alcatra? How is it different from top sirloin?

What Cut Of Meat Is The Alcatra?

Alcatra is a long, lean cut derived from the top sirloin area of the cow.

What Cut Of Meat Is The Alcatra?

 It differs from traditional top sirloin predominantly due to its size

What Cut Of Meat Is The Alcatra?

It is one of the largest cuts of meat you will find at Brazilian steakhouses and is prized for its earthy flavor and signature leanness.

What Cut Of Meat Is The Alcatra?

Brazilian top sirloin occupies nearly the entire length of the skewer on which it is roasted to medium-rare perfection.

What Cut Of Meat Is The Alcatra?

The natural, rich beefy flavor of the Brazilian cut of top sirloin means all that is needed is a little salt to bring out its succulence.

Which Countries Eat Alcatra?

Alcatra is most widely associated with Portugal and Brazil. Alcatra in Portugal describes a slow-roasted dish, similar to American pot roast.

Which Countries Eat Alcatra?

 In Brazil, however, it is always associated with churrasco. This variation likely arose from the Gauchos, the originators of Brazilian barbecue.

Is Top Sirloin A Good Cut Of Meat?

Top sirloin is a great cut of meat and offers several advantages. When cooked properly, it is exceptionally tender, flavorful, and versatile.

Is Top Sirloin A Good Cut Of Meat?

It is also relatively affordable compared to other cuts of beef, which makes it an economical choice that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

How To Cook Alcatra Top Sirloin?

Top sirloin is best cooked with indirect heat on the grill or rotisserie style. It is a large cut of meat, so it will need time to come up to temperature.

How To Cook Alcatra Top Sirloin?

Sear your meat quickly over high heat, then move it to indirect heat, flipping or turning it frequently.

Tips To Cook Alcatra

Don’t grill it cold, or you risk uneven cooking or over-cooking to achieve the desired internal temperature.

Cook The Alcatra At Room Temperature:

Tips To Cook Alcatra

Allowing the alcatra to rest lets the juices re-absorb into the muscle, adding moister and flavor to the meat.

Let The Top Sirloin Rest:

Tips To Cook Alcatra

If you slice with the grain, you’ll have long, chewy fibers that will seriously compromise the texture.

Slice Against The Grain:

Tips To Cook Alcatra

You don’t need much for superb alcatra. We typically use only a little rock salt on ours. Feel free to use a marinade, if you like.

Go Easy On Seasoning:

What Is The Difference Between Alcatra And Picanha?

They are different cuts of beef. Alcatra is a long, large cut from the top sirloin. Picanha comes from the rump, which is adjacent to the loin.

What Is The Difference Between Alcatra And Picanha?

The serving size of alcatra vs picanha is also different

What Is The Difference Between Alcatra And Picanha?

The size of the alcatra means it can be skewered in one piece and take up much of the spit in one go.

What Is The Difference Between Alcatra And Picanha?

Picanha is a smaller cut of meat, which means several pieces are often skewered at once.

What Is The Difference Between Alcatra And Picanha?

They are pierced in a signature “c” shape to allow the prominent fat cap to permeate the layers of beef.

Where Do You Buy Alcatra?

Outside of specialty butcher shops, alcatra can be difficult to find locally. Luckily, we’ve brought our signature, spit-roasted alcatra back for a limited time.

Where Do You Buy Alcatra?

Sample this delectable cut of beef at one of our locations across the US. Book your table online to make sure you get a taste before it’s gone!