Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious BBQ.
While many people opt for classic cuts like ribs or chicken, have you ever considered grilling topside beef?
This lean and flavorful cut is often used for roast beef, but it can also be a delicious addition to your BBQ menu.
In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to prepare and grill topside beef for a mouthwatering BBQ experience.
So grab your tongs and let’s get cooking!
Can You BBQ Topside Beef?
Yes, you absolutely can BBQ topside beef! In fact, it’s a great option for those looking for a leaner cut of meat that still packs a flavorful punch.
Topside beef is often used for roast beef, but it can also be cubed and skewered for a delicious BBQ treat. It takes well to flavoring and can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to suit your taste.
One important thing to keep in mind when grilling topside beef is to cook it using indirect heat. This will help ensure that the meat cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.
You can also use a rotisserie to cook topside beef, which will give it a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior. Just be sure to season it generously with sea salt and black pepper before securing it on the rotisserie.
Another great way to prepare topside beef for the grill is to marinate it beforehand. This will help infuse the meat with flavor and keep it tender while cooking.
What Is Topside Beef?
Topside beef is a cut of beef that comes from the round of the cow, specifically the long, inner muscle of the thigh. It is a lean cut of meat with little fat marbling, making it a healthier option than some other cuts of beef. It is often sold boned, rolled, and tied for oven roasting, but it can also be cubed and skewered for grilling. The meat can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to suit your taste, and it takes well to marinating. When grilling topside beef, it is important to use indirect heat to ensure even cooking and prevent the meat from drying out. Using a rotisserie can also give the meat a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior. Overall, topside beef is a versatile and flavorful option for BBQ enthusiasts looking for a leaner cut of meat.
Choosing The Right Topside Beef Cut For BBQ
When it comes to choosing the right topside beef cut for BBQ, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure you’re selecting a high-quality cut of meat. Look for topside beef that is bright red in color and has a good amount of marbling.
One popular topside beef cut for BBQ is the flat iron steak. This cut is known for its tenderness and rich flavor, making it a great choice for grilling. Another option is the sirloin tip roast, which can be sliced into steaks or cubed for kebabs.
When preparing your topside beef for BBQ, be sure to trim any excess fat and season it well. You can use a dry rub or marinade to add flavor, or simply season with salt and pepper.
When grilling topside beef, it’s important to cook it over indirect heat to avoid overcooking or drying out the meat. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F for medium-rare.
Preparing Topside Beef For The Grill
Preparing topside beef for the grill is easy and straightforward. Start by taking the meat out of the fridge and letting it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will help the meat cook evenly and prevent it from becoming tough.
Next, season the topside beef with your favorite rub or marinade. You can use a dry rub made with a combination of herbs and spices or a marinade made with oil, vinegar, and other seasonings. Make sure to coat the meat evenly on all sides.
When grilling topside beef, it’s important to use indirect heat. This means that you should set up your grill so that the meat is not directly over the flames. This will help prevent the meat from drying out and ensure that it cooks evenly.
If you’re using a charcoal grill, you can use the snake method to create indirect heat. Simply arrange the coals in a circle around the edge of the grill and place a drip pan in the center. If you’re using a gas grill, turn off one or more burners to create a cooler zone for indirect grilling.
Once your grill is set up for indirect grilling, place the topside beef on the grill grates and close the lid. Cook the meat until it reaches an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare or 65-68°C (149-154°F) for medium. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and avoid overcooking.
When the topside beef is done cooking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender and flavorful.
Seasoning And Marinating Topside Beef
Seasoning and marinating topside beef is a crucial step in preparing it for the grill. A popular marinade for topside beef consists of a combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, rosemary, thyme, mustard, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, onion powder, and crushed red pepper.
To prepare the marinade, simply whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl or jug. Once the marinade is ready, pour it into a ziplock bag or large tupperware container and add the topside beef. Make sure to coat the meat evenly with the marinade and seal the bag or container tightly.
It’s recommended to marinate topside beef for at least 2-4 hours before grilling, but you can also marinate it overnight for maximum flavor. When you’re ready to grill the meat, remove it from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels.
Before cooking the topside beef, it’s important to season it with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor. You can also add additional herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
When grilling topside beef, make sure to use indirect heat and cook it for about 20-30 minutes per pound or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F for medium-rare. Using a meat thermometer is highly recommended to ensure that the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Grilling Topside Beef To Perfection
Grilling topside beef to perfection requires a few key steps. First, make sure your grill is large enough to accommodate the size of your beef roast. It’s best to aim for a grill that’s at least 20 inches, but bigger is better in this case.
Next, preheat your grill to about 350 degrees with the lid closed. This will allow for a slow and even cooking process. While the grill is heating up, prepare your topside beef by rubbing it with some olive oil and seasoning it with your favorite spices and herbs.
Once the grill is hot, place the beef roast on the grill over indirect heat. This means that the roast should not be directly over the flames or heat source. Close the lid and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes per pound, depending on your desired level of doneness.
It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef roast. A medium-rare roast should cook to 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit, while a medium roast should cook to about 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the topside beef is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures that it stays tender and juicy.
Grilling topside beef can be a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this lean cut of meat. With some careful preparation and attention to detail, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress your guests at your next BBQ.
Serving And Enjoying Your BBQ Topside Beef
After grilling your topside beef to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy it! There are many ways to serve this delicious cut of meat, depending on your personal preferences.
One option is to slice the beef thinly and serve it on a platter with a variety of side dishes. You can pair it with bread rolls or make a potato or noodle salad. Another great option is to serve it with onion rings for a crispy and flavorful addition.
If you want to get more creative, you can use the BBQ topside beef as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Simply slice the meat thinly and add it to your favorite bread or wrap with some fresh veggies and sauce.
For a more formal meal, you can serve the BBQ topside beef as a main course with some roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
No matter how you choose to serve your BBQ topside beef, be sure to enjoy it with family and friends. This delicious and flavorful meat is sure to be a hit at any gathering or BBQ party.
