Sabahan-style Grilled Beef Picanha

Ingredients

In this Sabahan adaptation of the Brazilian dish, Picanha, we incorporate the unique flavors of Sabahan cuisine. The original dish is traditionally seasoned with just salt, while our Sabahan-style version includes a blend of local spices such as turmeric, lemongrass, and ginger. These additions infuse the beef with a fragrant and slightly spicy flavor, giving it a distinct Sabahan twist. We alse have the original recipe for Picanha, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef picanha 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef picanha
• 3 tablespoons turmeric powder 3 tablespoons turmeric powder
• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ginger paste 2 tablespoons ginger paste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 1g
• Protein: 50g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the turmeric powder, lemongrass, ginger paste, minced garlic, vegetable oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Place the beef picanha in a large dish and rub the marinade mixture all over it, ensuring it is evenly coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the beef picanha from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.
5. 5.
   Grill the beef picanha for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. 6.
   Remove the beef from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7. 7.
   Slice the beef picanha against the grain into thin strips.
8. 8.
   Serve hot and enjoy the Sabahan-style Grilled Beef Picanha with your favorite side dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — To release its flavor, bruise the lemongrass stalks with the back of a knife before finely chopping them.
• Ginger paste — If you don't have ginger paste, you can grate fresh ginger and use it instead.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can use a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill.
• Let the beef rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
• Adjust the amount of turmeric and black pepper according to your preference for spiciness.

Serving advice

Serve the Sabahan-style Grilled Beef Picanha with steamed rice, a side of sambal belacan (spicy shrimp paste), and a fresh salad of cucumber and pineapple.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced beef picanha on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of turmeric powder for an attractive presentation.