Brazilian BBQ, known as churrasco, is more than just grilling—it is a time-honored tradition built on fire, quality meat, and expert technique. Rooted in the heritage of the gauchos of southern Brazil, churrasco embraces simple seasoning, careful cooking, and precision carving to create an unmatched dining experience.
Bringing real Brazilian BBQ to the table requires the right cuts of meat, proper grilling methods, and attention to doneness. With the right tools, including the Meat°it 3 smart thermometer, anyone can achieve the perfect churrasco at home.
What Defines Real Brazilian BBQ?
Churrasco stands apart from other grilling traditions by focusing on minimalist seasoning and natural flavors. There are no complex marinades or spice rubs—just coarse rock salt and high-quality meat cooked over open flames.
Essential Cuts for Authentic Churrasco
- Picanha (Top Sirloin Cap) – The signature cut of Brazilian BBQ, known for its fat cap, which bastes the meat as it cooks.
- Costela (Beef Ribs) – Slow-cooked over indirect heat until tender, delivering deep, smoky flavor.
- Fraldinha (Flank Steak) – A well-marbled cut that remains juicy and flavorful when cooked properly.
- Linguiça (Brazilian Sausage) – A garlicky, smoky sausage that adds variety to the grill.
The foundation of churrasco is simple: quality meat, proper seasoning, and precise grilling.
Grilling the Brazilian Way
To replicate authentic churrasco, the grilling process must be methodical and precise.
1. Preparing the Meat
- Generously coat the meat with coarse rock salt. Fine salt dissolves too quickly, while rock salt creates a flavorful crust.
- Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before grilling. This enhances the flavor and ensures even cooking.
2. Controlling the Heat
- Use charcoal or hardwood rather than gas for a true churrasco flavor. The embers provide the steady heat required for slow, controlled cooking.
- Grill over medium heat, letting the fat render and baste the meat naturally.
- Avoid open flames that can burn the exterior before the interior is properly cooked.
3. Perfecting the Cooking Process
- Flip the meat only once to retain its juices and develop a proper crust.
- Allow the meat to rest for several minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices.
Precision Grilling with Meat°it 3
Achieving the perfect doneness requires careful temperature management. The Meat°it 3 smart thermometer provides real-time internal temperature monitoring, ensuring every cut reaches its ideal level without the need to lift the grill lid.
Churrasco Temperature Guide
| Meat Cut | Ideal Temperature | Doneness Level |
|---|---|---|
| Picanha | 130-135°F | Medium-Rare |
| Beef Ribs | 200-205°F | Fall-Off-The-Bone |
| Flank Steak | 130-140°F | Medium |
| Chicken Hearts | 165°F | Fully Cooked |
| Sausages | 160°F | Juicy & Cooked |
With Meat°it 3, there is no need for guesswork—alerts notify when the desired temperature is reached, eliminating overcooking and ensuring churrasco perfection every time.
The Perfect Churrasco Pairings
A churrasco feast is not complete without traditional Brazilian sides that enhance the flavors of the meat:
- Farofa – Toasted cassava flour with butter, garlic, and bacon for added texture and richness.
- Vinagrete – A fresh tomato and onion salsa that balances the smokiness of the meat.
- Pão de Queijo – Chewy, cheesy bread rolls that complement the meal.
Mastering Brazilian BBQ at Home
Real Brazilian BBQ is both an art and a tradition. It requires quality ingredients, expert grilling techniques, and precise temperature control. With the Meat°it 3 smart thermometer, the process becomes even easier, ensuring each cut of meat is cooked to perfection.
Take churrasco to the next level with Meat°it 3 and experience authentic Brazilian BBQ at home.