Picanha is a large hunk of beef which comes from an area above the cow's rump, straddling both the sirloin and round primal cuts. Outside of Brazil it's also known as the rump cap or sirloin cap, but it isn't common to find in grocery stores because butchers normally break the large roast down into more familiar sirloin steaks and round cuts.
A truly great steakhouse isn't just about the steak. We'd argue that the best steakhouses in the country are ones that put as much thought and effort into the drinks, cocktails, and sides as the meat, and that's one place where Prime 44 West shines.
Unfortunately, though, it can take a long time to cook ribs right. Whether you choose to cook them on the grill or in the oven, you're looking at several hours of cook time, which isn't always convenient when you're trying to throw dinner together in under an hour.
"If you have white meats like chicken or pork you need to use lighter woods for smoking. White meats have a more subtle flavor than red meats such as beef or lamb. Choosing lighter woods, therefore, means you're not overpowering the qualities of the meat itself, but complementing it with an appropriately delicate wood-flavor."
Cooking prime rib on the grill rather than in the oven will give you more smoky flavor and that signature char of a steak - just on a juicy, thick cut like prime rib. It's important to note that this method works best for rib steaks that are about 2 inches thick and weigh about 2 pounds.
There's something to be said about the appeal of chain restaurants. In theory, customers can walk into any location and get much the same experience. There's nothing wrong with that, especially considering some chains take quality seriously. Chain barbecue restaurants are fewer and farther between than, say, steakhouse chains, and that's because of some unique challenges, including the differences between beloved regional styles. However, the one thing that unites great barbecue is the need for great sides - which is why we're here.
A truly good steak means sourcing high-quality meats that are handled, aged, and then cooked perfectly. Add in attention to sides, expertise in wine pairings, and it's easy to see how things might be better left to the professionals. Many of the best steakhouses across the U.S. are independently owned and operated, but we'd like to shine the spotlight on smaller, regional chains that are doing everything right, too.
For many beef lovers and chefs, marbling is one of the most important aspects of steak quality. Unlike the thick fat cap found on the outside of a piece of steak, marbling refers to the streaks of intramuscular fat dispersed within the lean muscle of beef. This is integral to an elevated steak-eating experience. As the steak cooks, the fat melts, basting the meat from the inside, leaving you with a flavorful and tender piece of meat.