Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Ingredients:

2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak (Brazilian-style cut)

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Instructions:

Preparation of the Steak:

Season the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like smoked paprika, onion powder, or dried oregano. This seasoning will enhance the steak’s natural flavors and add a subtle depth.

Cooking the Steak:

Preheat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to get hot, but not smoking.
Sear the Steak: Place the steak in the pan and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. Adjust the time for thicker cuts or different preferences.

Making the Garlic Butter:

Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the steak is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add Herbs: Stir in the fresh parsley and thyme to the garlic butter, allowing the herbs to infuse their flavor into the butter.

Rest and Serve:

Rest the Steak: Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and juicy.
Serve with Garlic Butter: Slice the steak against the grain into strips. Drizzle the garlic butter over the steak slices or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

Accompaniments: Pair your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a Brazilian twist, consider serving it with a side of black beans and rice.
Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine such as a Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the rich flavors of the steak and garlic butter beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak:

Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal for this recipe due to their flavor and texture. Ensure you slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a superior flavor compared to pre-chopped garlic. It’s worth the extra effort for that rich, aromatic quality.
Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. A touch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak

Serving Tips:

Presentation:

Garnish: Enhance the visual appeal of your Garlic Butter Brazilian Steak by garnishing with fresh parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of coarse sea salt can also add a delightful crunch.
Plating: Serve the steak sliced against the grain on a warm platter. Drizzle with garlic butter just before serving to ensure the flavors are fresh and vibrant.

Accompaniments:

Side Dishes: Complement your steak with sides such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad. For a Brazilian twist, pair it with black beans and rice.
Sauces: Offer additional sauces like chimichurri or a tangy salsa verde for extra flavor options. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can also add a nice touch.

Wine Pairing:

Red Wine: A robust red wine such as Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, or a Syrah pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the steak and garlic butter. Serve at room temperature for the best experience.

Serving Temperature:

Warm: Serve the steak warm to ensure the garlic butter melts over the slices, enhancing the flavor and making for a deliciously rich bite.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration:

Cool Quickly: Allow any leftover steak to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make the steak soggy.
Store Properly: Place leftover steak in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing:

Freeze for Longer Storage: If you need to store the steak for an extended period, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Defrost Safely: To defrost, place the steak in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid defrosting at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

Reheating:

Gentle Reheating: Reheat the steak gently to avoid overcooking. You can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, covered with a lid to retain moisture, or in the oven at a low temperature (around 275°F) until warmed through.
Microwave Caution: If using a microwave, reheat on low power to prevent toughening the meat. Place a damp paper towel over the steak to help retain moisture.

Garlic Butter Storage:

Refrigerate: Store any leftover garlic butter in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freeze: Garlic butter can also be frozen. Portion it into small containers or ice cube trays and freeze. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

1. Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes, while flank steak or skirt steak are traditional choices for Brazilian-style steak, you can use other cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or flat iron steak. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and type of steak you choose. For thicker cuts, you may need to increase the cooking time or use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired doneness.

2. How can I make the garlic butter sauce spicier?

To add a bit of heat to your garlic butter, you can incorporate red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the melted butter. For a more intense flavor, you might also add a dash of hot sauce or a small amount of finely chopped fresh chili peppers. Adjust to taste to get the perfect level of spiciness.

3. How do I achieve the perfect steak doneness?

The key to achieving your preferred steak doneness is using a meat thermometer. Here are the internal temperatures to aim for:

Rare: 125°F
Medium Rare: 135°F

Medium: 145°F
Medium Well: 150°F
Well Done: 160°F and above
Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak for the most accurate reading. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after it’s removed from the heat due to residual heat.

4. Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare garlic butter in advance. Simply melt the butter and mix in the minced garlic and herbs as directed. Store the garlic butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in small portions. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before using and reheat gently to maintain its flavor.