Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

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Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of savoring the rich, smoky flavors of Brazilian steak paired with the luscious richness of garlic butter, then you’re in for a treat with this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak recipe. This dish takes inspiration from the renowned Brazilian churrasco, a style of grilling that has captivated food lovers worldwide. The combination of succulent beef, perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices, and smothered in garlicky, buttery goodness, creates a dish that is truly indulgent and irresistible.

In this article, we’ll explore the unique grilling methods that make Brazilian steak so special, guide you through the process of preparing this flavorful dish, and offer helpful tips and variations for making the best Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak at home. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion, craving a hearty meal, or simply looking to try something new, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Brazil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The rich combination of tender steak with a garlic butter sauce is a flavor profile that will leave a lasting impression.
• Authentic Brazilian Grilling: Experience the traditional Brazilian churrasco-style grilling, which infuses the beef with a smoky, charred flavor that enhances the steak’s natural taste.
• Simple Yet Elegant: While the recipe involves some marinating and grilling techniques, the ingredients are simple, and the result is an elegant, impressive dish.
• Quick Cooking Time: Despite the rich flavors, this recipe can be prepared relatively quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts.
• Halal Friendly: The recipe is completely halal-friendly, ensuring no pork or bacon is used, and it avoids wine or any non-halal ingredients, making it suitable for everyone to enjoy.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour (20 minutes for marinating, 30 minutes for grilling, 10 minutes resting)
• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 350, Protein: 25g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 28g.

Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade:

• 2 lbs (900g) of flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye: These cuts of beef work well for grilling and absorb marinades beautifully.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds depth of flavor to the marinade.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For tenderizing the meat and helping the marinade adhere.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (halal soy sauce if needed): Provides a savory base to the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Balances the richness of the beef and brightens the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the caramelization during grilling.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A common spice in Brazilian cooking, cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: For a touch of smokiness that complements the grilling process.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the meat and bringing out its natural flavors.

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: The base of the sauce, giving it a creamy, rich texture.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The garlic flavor should shine through in the butter sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds freshness and color to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A little acidity helps balance the richness of the butter.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasoning to enhance the flavors.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: For an added burst of color and freshness.
• Lime wedges: For serving, to add an extra citrusy kick to the steak.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE STEAK MARINADE

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and all ingredients are incorporated.
2. Marinate the Steak: Place the steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring that it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, but preferably up to 1 hour. This will allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.

SECOND STEP: GRILL THE STEAK

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn down until they are glowing red with a light coating of ash. If using a gas grill, preheat for about 10 minutes before cooking.
2. Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Place the steak on the hot grill. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), and for medium, aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C).
3. Rest the Steak: Once the steak reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the steak remains tender and juicy.

THIRD STEP: PREPARE THE GARLIC BUTTER SAUCE

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add Lemon and Seasoning: Stir in the lemon juice, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Lower the heat and let the garlic butter sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly. Remove from heat once it’s ready.

FINAL STEP: ASSEMBLE AND SERVE

1. Slice the Steak: After the steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. This step is crucial for achieving a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Drizzle the Garlic Butter: Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter and drizzle the warm garlic butter sauce generously over the top.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the steak with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Enjoy: Serve this dish alongside traditional Brazilian accompaniments, such as rice, beans, and grilled vegetables, or enjoy it on its own as the star of your meal.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some great serving ideas:

1. As the Star of a Brazilian-Inspired Feast

This dish can easily become the centerpiece of a Brazilian-inspired meal. Serve it with classic Brazilian sides like farofa (toasted cassava flour), feijão tropeiro (Brazilian beans), and pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread). These sides will complement the steak perfectly, giving you a taste of Brazil in every bite.

2. Serve with Simple Side Dishes

For a more casual meal, pair the steak with simple sides like roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. The richness of the garlic butter steak will balance beautifully with these lighter accompaniments.

3. Perfect for a BBQ Party

If you’re hosting a BBQ, this Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak will impress your guests with its bold flavors. Serve it alongside your favorite grilled foods, such as skewers, burgers, and chicken wings, and enjoy a feast that everyone will rave about.

4. A Delicious Weeknight Meal

Despite its rich flavors, this steak recipe can easily be prepared for a weeknight dinner. The marinade and garlic butter sauce require minimal effort, and the grilling process is quick and simple, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal in under an hour.

Additional Tips

1. Grill Marks: For beautiful grill marks, make sure the grill is preheated and your steak is at room temperature before grilling.
2. Thickness of Steak: If your steak is particularly thick, consider using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to perfection. A thicker steak may require additional time on the grill.
3. Resting the Steak: Let the steak rest for at least 5-10 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Recipe Variations

While Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak is delicious as written, here are some variations to try:

1. Use Different Cuts of Meat

If you prefer a different cut of steak, try ribeye, t-bone, or even skirt steak. These cuts also work well on the grill and will absorb the marinade beautifully.

2. Spice It Up

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chopped fresh chilies, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes to the marinade. This will add a nice spicy kick to the dish.

3. Make It a Skewer

For a fun twist, cut the steak into bite-sized cubes and thread them onto skewers. Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for a deliciously smoky bite-sized version of this recipe.

4. Add Herbs to the Garlic Butter

Experiment with different herbs in the garlic butter sauce. Thyme, rosemary, or oregano will complement the garlic and add even more depth to the flavor.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftover Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak, here’s how to store it:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy this steak fresh, you can freeze it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a skillet over low heat.

Special Equipment

To make Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Grill or Grill Pan: A traditional charcoal or gas grill works best for authentic grilling, but a grill pan on the stovetop will also do the job.
• Meat Thermometer: For precision, a meat thermometer ensures your steak is cooked to the desired doneness.
• Small Saucepan: To make the garlic butter sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Yes, you can replace the steak with chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the marinade and grilling time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different sauce instead of garlic butter?

You can substitute the garlic butter with chimichurri sauce, a Brazilian-style herb sauce that complements grilled meats perfectly.

3. How do I know when my steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for your desired level of doneness: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium.

4. Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can cook the steak in a skillet or under a broiler for similar results.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak offers an irresistible combination of smoky, juicy beef and decadent garlic butter. Whether you’re preparing it for a special dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. With its authentic Brazilian grilling techniques and mouthwatering flavors, this dish brings the spirit of Brazil right to your home. Try it today, and experience a feast for your senses with every bite.