Cooking Center Cut Sirloin: Best Methods and Delicious Recipes

The Center Cut Top Sirloin Steak, also known as Top Sirloin, Sirloin Steak, or Cap Off, is a versatile and flavorful cut of beef that comes from the top sirloin cap. It's a cost-effective alternative to more expensive steaks like ribeye or New York strip and can be used in various dishes, making it a popular choice for grilling and stir-frying.

Characteristics and Cooking Methods

This medium-sized steak is known for its robust flavor. Although it's leaner and less tender than some other cuts, it remains a favorite due to its affordability and versatility. The best cooking methods for this steak include grilling, broiling, stir-frying, and reverse searing. To maximize tenderness, it's recommended to slice the steak thin after cooking or before cooking if used in kabobs or stir-fry.

Cooking Tips

• Grilling and Broiling: Use high heat to cook the steak. Grill or broil to the desired internal temperature (120-130°F for rare, 130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-145°F for medium, 145-155°F for medium-well, and 155-165°F for well-done).
• Kabobs: Cut the steak into 1-inch cubes, marinate, and grill at 425°F for 2 to 4 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.

Cost and Uses

Top sirloin typically costs around $10 per pound, making it an affordable option for everyday meals. It's excellent for kabobs, stir-fry, and general grilling. The steak can also be cooked from frozen if using high heat methods.

Interesting Facts

• The center cut top sirloin steak is derived from the biceps femoris muscle, ranking 23rd in tenderness out of the 40 muscles measured in the animal.
• In Brazil, the full top sirloin cap, known as picanha, is a popular dish in steakhouses, often grilled over charcoal and thinly sliced directly onto the diner's plate.

Recipes

Some delicious recipes to try with Center Cut Top Sirloin Steak include:

• Grilled Sirloin Steaks: Seasoned to perfection and grilled for a flavorful and juicy steak.
• Sweet and Spicy Beef Sirloin Tip Roast: A tender roast seasoned simply and glazed with BBQ sauce.
• Grilled Top Sirloin Steaks with Mixed Peppercorns: A spicy and savory steak cooked on a hot skillet.

The center cut top sirloin steak is a practical and delicious choice for those looking to enjoy a quality steak without breaking the bank. Whether grilling, broiling, or using in kabobs, this steak offers a flavorful experience that can be enhanced with various marinades and seasonings.