By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

Perfectly seared beef steak on a hot BBQ grill

Photo by Mohamed Olwy on Pexels

Quick Answer

BBQ Picanha for 5-7 min/side at 220-250°C (425-480°F). Internal temp: 54-60°C (130-140°F) medium-rare to medium. Rest for 10 minutes.

Picanha BBQ Overview

Picanha (rump cap) is the star of Brazilian churrasco. Keep the fat cap ON — it bastes the meat during cooking. Score the fat cap in a crosshatch pattern. Traditionally, it's folded onto large skewers in a C-shape and cooked over charcoal. Slice against the grain.

Cook Time

5-7 min/side

Temperature

220-250°C (425-480°F)

Internal Temp

54-60°C (130-140°F) medium-rare to medium

Rest Time

10 minutes

Thickness

3-4cm (or skewered)

How to BBQ Picanha — Step by Step

  1. Prep: Bring to room temperature 20-30 minutes before cooking. Season or marinate as desired.
  2. Preheat: Get your BBQ to 220-250°C (425-480°F). Clean and oil the grate.
  3. Cook: Grill for 5-7 min/side. Use a meat thermometer — target 54-60°C (130-140°F) medium-rare to medium.
  4. Rest: Rest for 10 minutes before slicing or serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you BBQ picanha?

BBQ picanha for 5-7 min/side at 220-250°C (425-480°F). Internal temperature should reach 54-60°C (130-140°F) medium-rare to medium.

What temperature should picanha be when cooked?

The internal temperature for picanha should reach 54-60°C (130-140°F) medium-rare to medium. Use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.

How long should picanha rest after BBQ?

Rest picanha for 10 minutes after removing from the BBQ. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier result.

Related BBQ Guides

Sources & References

1
AmazingRibs.com
The science of BBQ — temperature guides, techniques, and recipes backed by food science.
Reference
2
How to BBQ Right (YouTube)
Malcom Reed's championship-winning BBQ techniques and tutorials.
Video
3
Mad Scientist BBQ (YouTube)
Jeremy Yoder's detailed BBQ experiments and science-based cooking methods.
Video
4
Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Official Australian food safety guidelines and safe cooking temperatures.
Government