What Is Picanha and Where Does It Come From?

We often think of cuts that come from the rump of a cow as tough and undesirable because of how much work those muscles see during the cow’s lifetime. As a result, the cut has very little fat. However, it was the Brazilians that turned rump into gold. If you want to learn more about this meat magic, let’s take a closer look at what picanha steak is and where it comes from.

What Is Picanha Steak?

Picanha steak goes by many other names, such as rump cap, sirloin cape, and rump cover, but they’re all the same thing. This cut of beef comes from the very top of the rump. The cut itself has a triangular shape with an iconic beef cap that makes up for how naturally lean it is. It’s also known for its dark red, almost purple, meat. This steak is so unique because the grain of muscle runs lengthwise as opposed to widthwise, unlike other steaks.

Where Does It Come From?

We know where it comes from on the cow, but where does picanha originate? “Picanha” comes from picana, a tool that Brazilian cowboys, or gauchos, used to poke the rump of the animal. When Portugal colonized Brazil in the 1500s, they liked the name and referred to it as picanha. This cut of beef is incredibly popular around South America for a good reason, as you’ll soon find out!

What Does It Taste Like?

Picanha steak is typically cut into individual steaks about an inch thick, and both sides are seared on a grill on high heat for about two minutes. Once seared, it’s moved to a lower heated portion of the grill, where it sits until the internal temperature meets the desired doneness. Due to the fat cap, the meat tastes just as tender and juicy as any other steak, but it has a deeper, beefier flavor than other cuts.

Now that you know a little more about what picanha steak is and where it comes from, you are ready to take on this simple and delicious cut of beef! Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place! Vincent’s Meat Market has picanha for sale that can be shipped right to your door, so you can experience deliciousness how you want it, and when you want it.