Authentic Brazilian Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Authentic Brazilian Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce: A Sizzling Taste of Brazil’s Finest 🔥🥩🌿

1. Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the bold, smoky flavors of an authentic Brazilian skirt steak paired with vibrant chimichurri sauce. This iconic dish is a staple in Brazilian cuisine, known for its tender, juicy meat and herbaceous, tangy sauce that bursts with fresh flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a special dinner, or simply craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this foolproof recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro.

What makes this dish truly special is its perfect balance of simplicity and bold flavors. The skirt steak, known for its rich beefy taste, gets elevated by the bright, garlicky chimichurri – a sauce so good you’ll want to put it on everything! If you love exploring global flavors, you might also enjoy our Churro Stuffed French Toast for a sweet Brazilian-inspired treat.

2. Ingredients

To make this authentic Brazilian skirt steak recipe that will wow your family and guests, you’ll need the following simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs skirt steak (trimmed of excess fat) – look for well-marbled meat for maximum flavor
• 1 tbsp coarse salt – we prefer kosher or sea salt for better texture
• 1 tsp black pepper – freshly ground works best
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for that perfect sear
• For the Chimichurri Sauce:
• 1 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped) – flat-leaf Italian parsley works best
• 4 garlic cloves (minced) – fresh is essential for authentic flavor
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar – adds the perfect tang
• 1/2 cup olive oil – extra virgin for best results
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – adjust to your heat preference
• Salt and pepper to taste – start with 1/2 tsp each

For those who love experimenting with sauces, check out our White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters for another flavor-packed recipe that’s perfect for entertaining.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Skirt Steak

Begin by patting the skirt steak thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve that perfect golden-brown sear we all crave. Generously season both sides with coarse salt and black pepper, pressing the seasoning gently into the meat. Let the steak sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes – this allows the salt to penetrate deeper, enhancing both flavor and tenderness.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning ahead, you can season the steak up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it uncovered. This dry-brine method results in even more flavorful and tender meat!

Step 2: Sear the Steak to Perfection

Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet or grill over high heat until smoking hot – this is key for that perfect crust. Add olive oil and carefully place the steak in the pan. Sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130°F), or adjust cooking time based on your preference. For thicker cuts, you might need an extra minute per side.

Resist the temptation to move the steak around – letting it develop that beautiful crust is what creates those amazing flavors. If you’re cooking multiple steaks, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. For more cooking inspiration, browse our recipe collection with dishes for every occasion.

Step 3: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

While the steak rests (this is crucial – don’t skip the resting time!), combine all chimichurri ingredients in a bowl. The traditional method calls for finely chopping everything by hand, which gives the sauce its characteristic texture. However, you can pulse everything briefly in a food processor if you’re short on time – just be careful not to over-process.

Let the sauce sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. The chimichurri will keep improving as it sits, so making it a few hours ahead is even better. For another great make-ahead recipe, try our Easter Crack for your next gathering.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

After resting for 5-10 minutes (this allows the juices to redistribute), slice the steak thinly against the grain – this is essential for tender bites. The grain in skirt steak runs the length of the cut, so you’ll be slicing perpendicular to those long muscle fibers.

Arrange the slices on a platter and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. For a complete Brazilian feast, pair with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or crispy fries. The bold flavors also pair wonderfully with our Millionaire Brownies for dessert!

4. Tips for the Best Brazilian Skirt Steak

• Use high-quality skirt steak – Look for USDA Choice or Prime grade with good marbling for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip the resting time – Letting the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing ensures juicy, tender meat.
• Slice against the grain – This breaks up the muscle fibers, making each bite wonderfully tender.
• Make chimichurri in advance – The flavors develop beautifully over time, so consider making it a few hours ahead.
• Control your heat – Skirt steak cooks quickly, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.

For more cooking tips and tricks, visit our About page where we share our culinary philosophy.

5. Serving Suggestions

This authentic Brazilian skirt steak is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides:

• Grilled vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant make colorful accompaniments
• Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy and comforting
• Brazilian cheese bread (Pão de Queijo) – For an authentic touch
• A crisp green salad – To balance the richness
• Farofa – Toasted cassava flour, a traditional Brazilian side
• Black beans and rice – Classic Brazilian combo

For a complete breakfast or brunch spread, check out our breakfast recipes collection.

6. Variations

• Spicy Chimichurri: Add extra red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños for heat lovers.
• Grilled Version: Cook the steak on a charcoal grill for authentic smoky flavor.
• Different Herbs: Substitute half the parsley with cilantro or add oregano for complexity.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime zest to the chimichurri for brightness.
• Asian Fusion: Swap chimichurri for a ginger-scallion sauce.

For more creative recipe ideas, our Lucky Charms Ice Cream Sundae shows how fun flavor combinations can be!

7. Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking.
• Chimichurri keeps for up to a week in the fridge – the flavors actually improve!
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked steak for up to 2 months, though texture may change slightly.
• Meal prep: Slice cooked steak and pack with chimichurri for easy lunches.

For more snack ideas that store well, see our snack recipes section.

8. FAQs

Q: Can I use flank steak instead of skirt steak?
A: Yes, flank steak makes a good substitute but adjust cooking time as it’s typically thicker. Cook to the same internal temperature but expect slightly longer cooking time.

Q: How do I know when the steak is done without cutting into it?
A: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 125°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well. Remember the temperature will rise 5-10°F during resting.

Q: Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
A: Yes, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The olive oil might solidify, but will return to normal at room temperature. For best results, use within 1 month.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
A: Absolutely! Portobello mushrooms make an excellent meat substitute. Marinate and grill them similarly, then top with chimichurri.

Q: Where can I learn more about Brazilian cooking techniques?
A: For authentic Brazilian cooking methods, we recommend checking out this external resource from grilling experts.

9. Conclusion

This authentic Brazilian skirt steak with chimichurri sauce is more than just a meal – it’s a culinary experience that brings the vibrant spirit of Brazil to your table. The combination of perfectly seared, juicy steak with the bright, herbaceous chimichurri creates a symphony of flavors that’s both sophisticated and approachable.

What we love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s fancy enough for date night yet simple enough for weeknight dinners. The chimichurri sauce alone is worth mastering – once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables!

We hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen as it has in ours. For more international flavor inspiration, don’t miss our Butterbeer Cookies that bring a taste of magical worlds to your dessert table.

Now it’s your turn – fire up that skillet, grab your ingredients, and get ready for a flavor adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds! 🇧🇷✨

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