Chef Big DA high-end lunch featuring thin-shaved smoked picanha, emulsified bone marrow butter, and a bright herb gremolata on charred ciabatta.
Season the picanha aggressively with salt and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature to ensure even heat distribution during the sear.
Dry-brining for even 20 minutes improves the bark formation significantly.
In a small bowl, combine minced parsley, microplaned garlic, and lemon zest. Set aside for the final plating.
Keep the gremolata dry; moisture is the enemy of texture here.
Sear the picanha over high heat in a cast-iron skillet, focusing on rendering the fat cap until it is golden and crispy. Move to an offset smoker at 250°F (121°C) until the internal temperature hits 128°F (53°C).
Use oak or pecan wood for a clean, sophisticated smoke profile.
Remove the meat from the heat and let it rest. This is non-negotiable for fiber relaxation.
A 10-minute rest prevents the juices from flooding your ciabatta and ruining the structural integrity.
Generously coat the charred ciabatta with the bone marrow butter. Shave the picanha against the grain as thinly as your knife skills allow.
If you can't see the blade through the slice, it's too thick.
Pile the shaved beef onto the bread, top with pickled shallots and a heavy dusting of the gremolata. Serve immediately while the butter is just beginning to melt.
The acidity of the shallots cuts through the unctuous marrow butter perfectly.
The key to this dish is the balance between the fatty, smoky brisket and the sharp, acidic bite of the pickled shallots. Do not skip the resting period for the meat; we want maximum juice retention for that stunning viscosity when it hits the bread. Aim for a medium-rare finish on the steak before it hits the smoker for the final aromatics.
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Prices shown reflect the estimated cost of the portion used in this recipe, not the full item price. Actual costs may vary by store and location.