Brazilian Picanha

Brazilian Picanha is a beloved cut of beef from the top sirloin cap, celebrated for its rich flavor and juicy tenderness. It is the star of Brazilian churrascaria (steakhouses), typically seasoned simply with coarse salt and grilled whole or sliced on skewers. The dish is a cornerstone of Brazilian barbecue culture, often served with chimichurri or farofa.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Picanha is a high-protein, high-fat dish with minimal carbohydrates, making it a substantial source of energy and essential amino acids. A typical serving provides a significant amount of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, with a rough calorie range of 300-400 kcal per 150g serving.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	370 kcal
Protein	38 g
Carbs	0 g
Fat	24 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	85 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Zinc	7.5 mg
Vitamin B12	2.8 mcg
Niacin (B3)	10 mg
Vitamin B6	0.6 mg
Phosphorus	280 mg
Selenium	40 mcg
Potassium	420 mg

Per 1 typical serving (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Picanha is more than a dish; it's a ritual in Brazilian social gatherings, symbolizing hospitality and celebration. Nutritionally, its fat cap, when rendered, bastes the meat during grilling, enhancing both flavor and moisture without the need for added oils.