The top sirloin is a flavourful cut from the primal loin of the cow. While it doesn’t have as much flavourful fat content as striploin or the lean tenderness of tenderloin, it is still bold in flavour with a tenderness that appeals to more consumers. Sirloins are not only pleasing in flavour, but are also very affordable amongst high-end steaks. Its moderate marbling allows the fat to perfectly melt into the meat when it’s cooked. The top sirloin is a highly versatile steak that can be enjoyed with a variety of cooking methods.

Top Sirloin Cooking Methods

Frying Pan

1.       Add oil to a frying pan and let it sit over medium-high heat for a minute.
2.       Place the steak in the pan and sear each side for 30 seconds, allowing a golden brown crust to form. As top sirloins cook quickly, you’ll want to be diligent with the timing.
3.       Cook for another minute on each side for a rare steak. Add an incremental 30 seconds to each side for higher doneness.
4.       Place the steak onto a plate and let it sit for a minute before serving, allowing the melted fat and juices to tenderise the steak.

Grill

1.       Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Depending on the fire source, this may take some time. To tell when it’s hot enough, your hand shouldn’t be able to hover over the heat for more than five seconds.
2.       Once the grill is hot enough, place the steak on the grill. Make sure the steak isn’t directly over the fire as this will char the steak.
3.       Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side for a rare steak. Add an incremental 2 minutes to each side for higher doneness.

Oven

1.       Preheat the oven to 260 degrees Celsius.
2.       Use non-stick grease or cooking spray to lightly coat a broiler pan.
3.       Place the steak in the broiler pan, no farther than 10cm from the broil.
4.       Cook each side for 4 minutes for a rare steak. Add an incremental 1 minute to each side for higher doneness.

Marinating and spicing your steak a couple hours before cooking will allow your steak to absorb all the flavours. Serve your steak with caramelised onions, green beans, red peppers, mushrooms, and potatoes on the side. For a flavourful steak like top sirloin, opt for a full-bodied merlot or cabernet sauvignon for your wine pairing.

Is the top sirloin your preferred cut of steak? Share with us your favourite methods to cook steaks!