Brazilian Picanha Steak is one of the most flavorful and tender cuts of beef, widely popular in Churrasco-style barbecue. Known for its rich marbling and thick fat cap, it stays juicy and delicious when grilled. If you’re following a Mounjaro-friendly diet and looking for a high-protein, low-carb meal that supports weight loss and blood sugar control, this Brazilian-style steak is an excellent option.
This recipe preserves the authentic flavors of Picanha while keeping it low in carbohydrates, nutrient-dense, and satisfying. Served with a fresh chimichurri sauce, this dish is easy to prepare and restaurant-quality, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
For more healthy meal ideas, check out this nutritious chicken avocado wrap, packed with healthy fats and proteins.
What is Picanha, and Why Is It Popular in Brazilian Cuisine
A Staple in Brazilian Barbecue
Picanha is a top sirloin cap cut, highly valued in Brazilian cuisine for its tender texture and bold flavor. Unlike many American steak cuts, Picanha is typically grilled whole, then sliced into thick steaks and served with minimal seasoning.
In Brazil, Churrasco-style barbecue is a traditional method of cooking meat over an open flame, where Picanha is skewered, grilled, and sliced at the table, creating a juicy and flavorful experience.
Why Picanha is Ideal for a Mounjaro Diet
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) helps with weight loss and blood sugar control by regulating appetite and insulin response. This makes nutrient-dense, high-protein, low-carb meals perfect for people using Mounjaro.
- High in Protein – Supports muscle retention and satiety.
- Low in Carbs – Helps maintain ketosis and stable blood sugar levels.
- Healthy Fats – Provide sustained energy and enhance flavor.
Looking for more low-carb recipes? Try this one-pot spinach artichoke dip pasta for another satisfying meal.
The Mounjaro diet focuses on high-protein, healthy-fat meals that support weight loss and blood sugar control. According to Healthline, red meat provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are crucial for maintaining energy and muscle health.
How to Choose the Best Picanha Steak
Key Characteristics of High-Quality Picanha
To get the best results, look for a cut that has:
✔ A thick, even fat cap – Retains juiciness and enhances flavor.
✔ A deep red color – Indicates fresh, high-quality meat.
✔ Minimal connective tissue – Ensures tenderness when cooked.
Avoid cuts labeled “rump cap” without the fat cap, as the fat layer is what makes Picanha so flavorful.
For more tips on selecting quality ingredients, read this ultimate guide to strawberries to find the freshest fruit for your recipes.
Ingredients for Mounjaro-Friendly Picanha Steak
For the Steak
- 2 lbs Picanha steak (sliced into thick strips)
- 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Picanha
- Slice the Picanha into thick steaks (about 1 to 1.5 inches), keeping the fat cap intact.
- Season generously with coarse sea salt and black pepper.
- Let it rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
Cooking the Steak (Grill or Pan-Sear Method)
Grill Method
- Preheat the grill to high heat (450-500°F).
- Place steaks fat-side down first to render the fat.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Pan-Sear Method
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat and add olive oil.
- Sear fat-side down first for 3-4 minutes.
- Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare.
- Let rest before slicing.
Making the Chimichurri Sauce
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl and stir well.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Mounjaro-Friendly Picanha Steak
- Grilled Asparagus – High in fiber and essential vitamins.
- Avocado Salad – Provides healthy fats and nutrients.
- Steamed Broccoli – Low in carbs and rich in antioxidants.
- Cauliflower Mash – A great alternative to mashed potatoes.
For another delicious side dish, check out this no-knead rosemary garlic bread for a perfect pairing.
“Pair your Picanha steak with low-carb sides like grilled asparagus or cauliflower mash. According to WebMD, cauliflower is packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for low-carb diets.”
FAQs About Mounjaro-Friendly Brazilian Picanha Steak
Is Picanha steak suitable for a Mounjaro-friendly diet?
“Yes! Picanha is naturally low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats, making it perfect for keto diets. For more information on how the keto diet works, check out Diet Doctor’s Guide to Keto.”
How do I cook Picanha steak to keep it tender and juicy?
- Slice it properly against the grain.
- Use high heat for a crispy crust.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Can I eat Picanha steak on a keto or low-carb diet?
Absolutely! Picanha is naturally keto-friendly, perfect for a low-carb, high-fat diet.
What are the best seasonings for Mounjaro-friendly Picanha steak?
- Coarse sea salt (Brazilian traditional method).
- Black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili flakes.
- Avoid high-sugar marinades or processed sauces.
Can I cook Picanha steak in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes!
- Sear in a pan for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
- Let it rest before slicing.
How should I store and reheat leftover Picanha steak?
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven at 275°F to retain juiciness.
Can I Cook Picanha Without a Grill?
“Yes! If you don’t have a grill, the best alternatives are pan-searing or oven-roasting. A cast-iron skillet works well to create a nice crust, while oven-roasting keeps it tender and juicy. Simply sear it on high heat first, then finish in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.”
What is the Difference Between American and Brazilian Picanha?
“The main difference is how it is cut and prepared. In Brazil, Picanha is traditionally grilled whole on skewers and sliced at the table. In the U.S., Picanha is sometimes labeled as a ‘rump cap’ and may be sold with or without the fat cap—always choose the one with the fat for authentic flavor!”
How Should I Store Leftover Picanha?
“To keep your Picanha fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a low oven (275°F/135°C) for 10 minutes to preserve its juiciness.
Final Thought
This Mounjaro-friendly Brazilian Picanha steak is a high-protein, low-carb dish that delivers rich flavors and excellent nutrition.
Try adding this delicious steak recipe to your meal plan while exploring other healthy meal ideas from Best Guide Recipes.
“If you’re looking for more low-carb, Mounjaro-friendly recipes, explore our Keto Recipe Collection for more delicious meal ideas.”