Grilling Beef Top Round: A Cut Above the Rest

Beef top round is a lean and flavorful cut of beef that is often overlooked when it comes to grilling. However, with the right techniques and recipes, it can be a truly delicious and satisfying addition to any barbecue. In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities of grilling beef top round and provide you with the tips and tricks you need to get started.

What is Beef Top Round?

Beef top round is a cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow, near the rump. It is a lean cut of meat, which means that it has less marbling (fat) than other cuts of beef. This can make it slightly more challenging to cook, but it also makes it a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative.

Beef top round is often sold in two different forms: top round roast and top round steak. The roast is a larger cut of meat that is perfect for slow cooking, while the steak is a thinner cut that is ideal for grilling or pan-frying.

Nutritional Benefits of Beef Top Round

Beef top round is a nutrient-rich food that provides a range of health benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins B12 and B6, and minerals like iron and zinc. It is also relatively low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.

Here is a breakdown of the nutritional benefits of beef top round:

How to Grill Beef Top Round

Grilling beef top round can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques, it can be a truly delicious and satisfying experience. Here are some tips to get you started:

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

When it comes to grilling beef top round, it’s essential to choose the right cut of meat. Look for a cut that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick, as this will allow for even cooking and prevent the meat from becoming too charred.

Preparing the Meat

Before grilling, make sure to prepare the meat properly. Trim any excess fat from the edges of the meat, and season with your favorite spices and marinades.

Grilling Techniques

When it comes to grilling beef top round, there are a few techniques to keep in mind:

• Grill over medium-high heat: Beef top round is a lean cut of meat, so it’s essential to grill it over medium-high heat to achieve a nice char on the outside.
• Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Beef top round should be cooked to at least 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 155°F (68°C) for medium-well.
• Don’t press down on the meat: Resist the temptation to press down on the meat with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the meat tough.

Grilling Times

Here are some general grilling times for beef top round:

• Medium-rare: 4-5 minutes per side
• Medium: 5-6 minutes per side
• Medium-well: 6-7 minutes per side

Recipes for Grilled Beef Top Round

Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Grilled Beef Top Round with Garlic and Herbs

Ingredients:

• 1-2 pounds beef top round
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the beef top round, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the meat reaches your desired level of doneness.

Grilled Beef Top Round with Asian-Glazed Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1-2 pounds beef top round
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add garlic and ginger to the bowl and whisk until smooth.
4. Brush the sauce all over the beef top round, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the meat reaches your desired level of doneness.

Conclusion

Grilling beef top round can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and recipes, it can be a truly delicious and satisfying experience. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to traditional grilled meats or just want to try something new, beef top round is definitely worth considering. So next time you’re firing up the grill, give beef top round a try – your taste buds will thank you!

What is beef top round and why is it ideal for grilling?

Beef top round is a lean cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. It is known for its tenderness and rich flavor, making it an ideal choice for grilling. The top round is a relatively flat cut, which allows it to cook evenly and quickly on the grill.

When grilled, the top round develops a nice char on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Its lean nature also makes it a healthier option compared to other cuts of beef, with less marbling and fat content. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a flavorful and nutritious grilling option.

How do I prepare beef top round for grilling?

To prepare beef top round for grilling, start by bringing the meat to room temperature. This helps the meat cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside. Next, season the meat with your desired spices and marinades, making sure to coat it evenly.

You can also add a dry rub or a marinade to enhance the flavor of the top round. Let the meat sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat. Before grilling, pat the meat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and promote even browning.

What is the best way to grill beef top round?

The best way to grill beef top round is to use high heat and cook it for a short amount of time. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F to 450°F. Place the top round on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F to 135°F, while medium should be around 140°F to 145°F. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

How do I achieve a nice crust on my grilled beef top round?

To achieve a nice crust on your grilled beef top round, make sure the meat is dry before grilling. Pat the meat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which can prevent the formation of a crust. You can also add a small amount of oil to the grates before grilling to prevent the meat from sticking.

Another way to achieve a nice crust is to use a hot skillet or grill pan before grilling. Sear the meat in the skillet for a minute or two on each side, then finish it off on the grill. This will help create a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Can I grill beef top round to well-done without it becoming tough?

While it’s possible to grill beef top round to well-done, it can be challenging to keep it tender. The top round is a lean cut of meat, which means it can become dry and tough if overcooked. However, if you prefer your meat well-done, there are a few things you can do to keep it tender.

One way is to use a lower heat and cook the meat for a longer amount of time. This will help prevent the outside from burning before the inside is fully cooked. You can also use a meat mallet to pound the meat thinly before grilling, which will help it cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming tough.

How do I slice beef top round after grilling?

After grilling, it’s essential to slice the beef top round against the grain. This means slicing the meat in the direction of the fibers, rather than across them. Slicing against the grain will help the meat stay tender and prevent it from becoming chewy.

To slice the meat, use a sharp knife and slice it thinly, about 1/4 inch thick. You can also slice the meat at an angle, which will help it stay tender and prevent it from becoming too dense. Serve the sliced meat immediately, garnished with your desired herbs and seasonings.

What are some popular ways to serve grilled beef top round?

Grilled beef top round is a versatile cut of meat that can be served in a variety of ways. One popular way is to serve it as a steak, sliced thinly and served with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad. You can also serve it as a sandwich, sliced thinly and served on a bun with your desired toppings.

Another way to serve grilled beef top round is to slice it thinly and serve it in a stir-fry or fajitas. You can also serve it as a salad topping, sliced thinly and served on top of a bed of greens with your desired toppings. The possibilities are endless, and the top round is a great choice for any meal.