Mastering the Art of BBQ Topside Beef

For beef lovers, a nicely grilled topside beef is one of life’s greatest pleasures. When done right, this lean and flavorful cut becomes tender and juicy with a delicious smoky barbecue flavor. But one question often comes up – can you actually BBQ topside beef to perfection? The answer is a resounding yes! With the right techniques, cuts, and recipes, you can make utterly mouthwatering grilled topside beef on your BBQ.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore how to select the best topside beef for the grill, share BBQ tips and tricks, provide seasoning ideas, recommend cooking times and temps, and walk through the entire grilling process step-by-step You’ll learn everything you need to know to make perfectly grilled topside beef that will wow your family and friends Let’s get fired up!

Choosing the Right Cut of Topside Beef

For optimal results when BBQing it’s crucial to select the right cut of topside beef. Here are some tips

• Opt for a 1.5-2kg piece with good marbling and fat cap on top. This keeps it tender and moist during cooking.

• Choose thicker cuts rather than thin. Thin pieces can dry out on the grill.

• Look for uniform thickness so it cooks evenly. Avoid oddly shaped or thin tapered ends.

• Purchase good quality beef preferably 28-35 days aged. This enhances tenderness and flavor.

• Have your butcher trim excess fat and silverskin for easier grilling.

Getting the right cut sets you up for topside beef grilling success!

Seasoning Your Topside Beef

A flavorful dry rub really makes grilled topside beef sing. Here are some sensational seasoning ideas:

• Basic salt, pepper, garlic powder – simple but effective

• Smoky rub with paprika, cumin, mustard powder

• Herby rub using rosemary, thyme, oregano

• Tangy rub with brown sugar, chili powder, lemon zest

• Spicy rub featuring cayenne, chipotle, hot paprika

• Coffee rub with espresso powder, cocoa powder, brown sugar

Experiment with flavors to find your perfect blend. Let seasoned beef marinate overnight before BBQing to intensify taste.

Prep Work for Grilling Day

To grill topside beef to perfection, some advance prep is key:

• Trim excess fat and sinew for better browning

• Make shallow slits across the top to help absorb flavors

• Coat thoroughly with dry seasoning rub

• Chill overnight to let seasoning permeate the meat

• Remove beef from fridge and let sit at room temp 30 mins before grilling

Proper prep maximizes flavor and cooks more evenly. Now the beef is ready for the grill!

Setting Up the BBQ Grill

Having your grill properly set up is critical for barbecue success:

• Clean grill grates thoroughly and oil to prevent sticking

• For gas grill, preheat to medium heat, 350-450°F

• For charcoal, prep coals and heat until covered with gray ash

• Set up for 2-zone indirect grilling, with no coals/heat on one side

• Place drip pan with water under no-heat zone

• Test grill temp with thermometer placed at grilling surface

With 2-zone grilling, you can move the beef between direct and indirect heat as needed for perfect results.

Step-By-Step Grilling Process

Now it’s time for the fun part – grilling! Follow these steps:

• Pat beef dry with paper towels before grilling

• Sear topside over direct high heat for 2-3 minutes per side to get a nice crust

• Move beef to indirect heat, close grill, cook 15-25 minutes until internal temp reaches 110°F

• Flip beef and cook 15-25 more minutes until center reaches 130°F for medium rare

• Transfer beef to cutting board, tent with foil, rest 15-20 mins before slicing

• Check for doneness and continue cooking if needed until beef reaches desired doneness

• Slice across the grain into thin slices and serve warm

Be sure to monitor temps and doneness closely as each grill and cut differs slightly.

BBQ Sauce Application

For irresistible flavor, brush on barbecue sauce during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling:

• Use thick, sticky, tomato or vinegar-based sauce

• Lightly brush sauce over all surfaces of the beef

• Let sauce caramelize onto the beef without burning

• Reapply sauce 2-3 times for maximum flavor infusion

The sauce adds wonderful sweet, smoky and savory notes to the grilled beef.

Making it a Meal

Grilled topside beef is amazing on its own, but here are some ideas to make it a full BBQ feast:

• Seasoned baked potatoes, grilled corn, coleslaw

• Herb-roasted vegetables like carrots, peppers, zucchini

• Fresh garden salad with ranch or vinaigrette

• Cheesy garlic bread or cornbread with honey butter

• Ice-cold beer or a fruit-flavored iced tea

Add your favorite grilled veggies, salads and sides to complete the ultimate barbecue meal.

Safety Tips

To safely enjoy your grilled masterpiece:

• Use separate plates/utensils for raw and cooked beef to avoid cross-contamination

• Cook beef to minimum safe internal temps – 145°F for medium rare

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours – do not leave beef sitting out

• Reheat leftovers to 165°F and use within 3-4 days for best quality

Following basic safety guidelines helps protect you and your guests.

Leftover Inspiration

Leftover grilled topside beef is an amazing ingredient for:

• Fajitas – slice beef and sauté with peppers and onions

• Quesadillas – add sliced beef and cheese inside grilled tortillas

• Nachos – top corn chips with beef, cheese, salsa and more

• Sandwiches – pile sliced beef with avocado, bacon, cheddar cheese

• Rice bowls – serve beef over cilantro lime rice with chimichurri

• Salads – toss sliced beef with mixed greens, veggies and vinaigrette

Get creative with leftovers to reinvent your grilled topside beef into delicious new dishes!

Grilling succulent, flavorful topside beef on the barbecue is easier than you think. With the right prep, techniques and recipes, you can achieve grill master status and serve up the ultimate tender and juicy grilled beef. Impress your family with your skills by making mouthwatering BBQ topside beef all summer long.