Steaks never go out of style. And sirloin steak is the most popular cut of steak. Sirloin steak is prized for having a balanced flavor and versatility. It’s also popular because it’s a tender cut of steak that is perfect for grilling. When you want a classic steak that is flavorful, tender, and has the perfect amount of richness, you want a sirloin steak. But did you know that there are several different types of sirloin steaks?
Sirloin steaks get their name from the section of the cow where the meat comes from. The sirloin region is between the round and the short loin. The different types of sirloin steak are:
Top Sirloin Steak
The top sirloin steak is the most tender and flavorful of the sirloin cuts. It’s taken from the upper portion of the sirloin, close to the short loin. This steak is well-marbled, making it juicy and flavorful. It’s often grilled or pan-seared and served as a standalone steak. Top sirloin steaks are usually thicker and can be cut into smaller steaks or kebabs.
Bottom Sirloin Steak
The bottom sirloin is divided into several cuts, including the tri-tip and the flap steak. Tri-tip is a triangular-shaped cut with a robust flavor. It’s a favorite for grilling or roasting. Flap steak, also known as bavette or sirloin tip, is a thin, long cut with a rich, beefy flavor, often used in dishes like carne asada.
Sirloin Strip Steak
This cut is sometimes referred to as a boneless sirloin strip or just strip steak. It’s taken from the short loin area of the sirloin, closer to the rear of the cow. It’s well-marbled and features a tender, juicy texture. Sirloin strip steak is excellent for grilling, pan-searing, or broiling. It’s known for its robust flavor and slightly firmer texture compared to top sirloin.
Ball Tip Steak
The ball tip steak is cut from the sirloin tip, which is part of the bottom sirloin. It’s relatively lean and less tender compared to top sirloin cuts but is still flavorful. It’s often used in stir-fries, marinated and grilled, or sliced thin for sandwiches.
Center-Cut Sirloin Steak
The center-cut sirloin steak is obtained from the center of the sirloin section, making it more uniform in shape and size. It’s a versatile steak suitable for grilling, pan-searing, or broiling. While it may not be as tender as top sirloin, it still offers a flavorful and satisfying eating experience.
Coulotte Steak
The coulotte steak, also known as picanha in Brazilian cuisine, is a triangular, cap-shaped cut from the top sirloin. It’s well-marbled and rich in flavor. It’s a favorite for grilling and is often seasoned with coarse salt to create a crispy crust. Coulotte steaks are common in churrascarias and Brazilian barbecue restaurants.
Flat-Bone Sirloin Steak
As the name suggests, this sirloin steak is cut with a portion of the flat bone still attached, which can add extra flavor. It’s often used for broiling or grilling. The bone can help retain moisture and flavor during cooking.
Sirloin Tips
Sirloin tips are typically small, cube-shaped pieces of meat that come from the sirloin. They’re often used in stews, kebabs, or as an ingredient in stir-fry dishes. Sirloin tips are flavorful and tender when cooked properly.
Get The Best Steaks At Umbria
When you want a perfectly cooked steak, head to Umbria! Enjoy a top-quality sirloin steak cooked exactly the way you want. Pair it with a bottle of wine, a cocktail, or some crisp sparkling water. Make a reservation with us today to get these luxury meal items and more!
