If you’re craving a dish that brings together bold flavors and vibrant colors in every bite, the Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe celebrates the juicy, smoky richness of perfectly grilled beef complemented by a fresh, zesty vinagrete sauce that bursts with tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Whether you’re hosting a weekend cookout or just want to bring a bit of Brazilian sunshine to your dinner table, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy your cravings for something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe is delightfully simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the final flavor profile. From the hearty beef steaks that provide a rich texture to the fresh vegetables and herbs in the vinagrete sauce that add brightness and balance, every item contributes to an unforgettable meal.
- 4 beef steaks (such as sirloin or ribeye), about 1 inch thick: Choose good quality cuts for tenderness and flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the steak perfectly and enhancing its natural flavors.
- 2 tomatoes, diced: Adds juicy sweetness and a pop of color to the vinagrete sauce.
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped: Brings sharpness and crunch to contrast the tender steak.
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant green color.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs brighten up the sauce with earthy notes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds smooth richness and helps meld the sauce ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar: Gives the vinagrete sauce its tangy kick, balancing the richness of the meat.
- Salt and pepper to taste (for the vinagrete): Seasoning to ensure the sauce tastes perfectly balanced.
How to Make Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season the Steaks
The magic begins with seasoning your steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step is crucial because it enhances the natural beef flavor and creates a delicious crust when grilled. Don’t be shy—seasoning thoroughly is the secret to steak perfection!
Step 2: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to high heat to get that beautiful sear that locks in all the juices. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side if you like your meat medium-rare. Grill times will vary depending on your preference, but be sure not to overcook. After grilling, let the steaks rest for a few minutes; this helps the juices redistribute and keeps the steak wonderfully tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Vinagrete Sauce
While the steaks are resting, make the vinagrete sauce. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped onion, bell pepper, and fresh parsley. Drizzle olive oil and white vinegar over the mixture, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently but thoroughly. This sauce is the Brazilian twist — bright, fresh, and a little bit tangy — perfect alongside rich grilled steak.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
To finish, slice the steaks against the grain into strips. Serving the steak sliced allows for easier eating and ensures each bite is tender. Plate the steak slices alongside a generous scoop of vinagrete sauce so you get that refreshing flavor in every bite. You can also drizzle some of the sauce over the meat for an extra zesty punch.
How to Serve Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Add fresh parsley leaves or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top for a finishing touch that enhances the flavors visually and on the palate. A wedge of lime or lemon on the side can also be squeezed over the steak for a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish.
Side Dishes
This Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with traditional Brazilian sides like fluffy white rice, black beans, or farofa (toasted cassava flour). For a lighter option, a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables complement the meal wonderfully and keep it refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve the steak and vinagrete on a large wooden board with rustic bread on the side to soak up any juices. For a more formal dinner, plate each serving with a neatly arranged side and drizzle the vinagrete artistically over the steak strips. Presentation can transform this comforting dish into a showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover steak and vinagrete separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The vinagrete sauce stays fresh and zesty for up to 3 days, while the steak is best eaten within 2 days for optimal tenderness and flavor.
Freezing
If you need to freeze leftovers, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. The vinagrete sauce is best served fresh and does not freeze well because of the fresh vegetables.
Reheating
To reheat the steak, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to avoid overcooking and drying it out. Reheat just until warmed through, then serve immediately with fresh vinagrete sauce for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can use flank or skirt steak if you prefer. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly to avoid toughness.
Is the vinagrete sauce spicy?
No, the traditional vinagrete sauce for this recipe is not spicy. It’s tangy, fresh, and slightly sweet. However, you can add finely chopped chili peppers if you want a little heat.
Can I make the vinagrete sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vinagrete sauce a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld. Just give it a good stir before serving since the olive oil might separate a bit.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook the steak another way?
No worries! You can cook the steak on a stovetop grill pan or a heavy skillet over high heat. The goal is to achieve a good sear, so keep an eye on cooking times.
How do I know when the steak is cooked to medium-rare?
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; medium-rare steaks are about 130-135°F (54-57°C). Alternatively, check by touch—medium-rare feels like the fleshy area under your thumb when your hand is relaxed.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe that brings friends and family together around the table. It’s a celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients coming together to create a dish full of life and warmth. I hope you give this recipe a go; once you taste that tender, smoky steak paired with the fresh and tangy vinagrete, you’ll see why it’s a favorite in Brazilian cuisine and now truly a favorite of mine too!
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Brazilian BBQ Steak with Vinagrete Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Description
Enjoy a classic Brazilian BBQ experience with perfectly grilled beef steaks paired with a fresh and tangy vinagrete sauce. This recipe features juicy sirloin or ribeye steaks seasoned simply and grilled to perfection, complemented by a vibrant salsa made from tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, and parsley dressed in olive oil and vinegar. Ideal for a quick and flavorful dinner that captures the essence of Brazilian flavors.
Ingredients
Steak
- 4 beef steaks (such as sirloin or ribeye), about 1 inch thick
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vinagrete Sauce
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the steaks: Generously season both sides of the beef steaks with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Grill the steaks: Preheat your grill to high heat. Place the steaks on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time to reach your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
- Prepare the vinagrete sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, bell pepper, and parsley. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and white vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Serve: Slice the rested steaks against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve alongside the fresh vinagrete sauce for a perfect balance of smoky and tangy flavors.
Notes
- Choose high-quality beef cuts like ribeye or sirloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Letting the steaks rest after grilling helps keep the meat juicy.
- Adjust the vinagrete ingredients to your taste; adding a pinch of sugar can balance acidity if needed.
- The vinagrete sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to a day.
- Use a sharp knife for slicing steak against the grain to maximize tenderness.
