Sirloin tip steak thin cut is a versatile and flavorful beef option that can be cooked quickly and enjoyed in many dishes. However, because sirloin tip comes from a lean and somewhat tougher part of the cow, it requires some care to get it tender and juicy. If you want to master how to cook sirloin tip steak thin cut perfectly, this guide will walk you through the best methods, tips, and even a tasty marinade recipe to elevate your steak game.
What Is Sirloin Tip Steak Thin Cut?
Sirloin tip steak is cut from the round or hindquarter area of the cow. It’s lean and can be a bit tough if cooked improperly. When sliced thin, it becomes ideal for quick cooking methods like pan-searing or grilling, and it absorbs marinades well, making it tender and flavorful.
Preparing Your Sirloin Tip Steak Thin Cut
Tenderize the Meat
Since sirloin tip steak can be tough, tenderizing is key. If your steak isn’t already blade tenderized (mechanically pierced to break down fibers), use a meat mallet to pound it thin. This helps break up connective tissue and ensures a more tender bite.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor and Tenderness
Marinating sirloin tip steak thin cut is highly recommended. A good marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat further. Use a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar (like rice vinegar), garlic, and green onions for a delicious Asian-inspired marinade. Let the steak soak for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to really let the flavors penetrate.
How to Cook Sirloin Tip Steak Thin Cut
Stove-Top Pan-Searing Method
- Bring to Room Temperature: Before cooking, take the steak out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly.
- Preheat Your Pan: Use a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan. Heat it over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until very hot.
- Sear the Steak: Add a little oil to the pan, then place the thin-cut sirloin tip steak in the pan. Sear for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Because the steak is thin, it cooks very quickly – avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.
- Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest loosely covered with foil for 4-5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.
- Slice Against the Grain: For the most tender bite, slice the steak thinly against the grain before serving.
Grilling Method
If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the thin sirloin tip steak for 1-2 minutes per side. Like pan-searing, quick cooking at high heat is essential to avoid toughness.
Flavor Variations and Serving Ideas
– Korean Bulgogi Style: Marinate the thin sirloin tip steak in soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and spices for about an hour. Cook quickly in a hot pan for 3-5 minutes and serve over rice for a delicious Korean BBQ-inspired meal.
– With Onions and Peppers: Sauté thinly sliced sirloin tip steak with bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Season with cumin, garlic, paprika, and olive oil for a hearty skillet dinner served over rice or noodles.
– Garlic Butter Potatoes: Serve your sirloin tip steak with garlic butter potatoes for a classic, comforting meal.
Tips for Perfect Sirloin Tip Steak Thin Cut
– Marinate Long Enough: At least 6 hours, ideally overnight, to tenderize and flavor the meat deeply.
– Use a Meat Mallet: Tenderize before marinating if the steak isn’t blade tenderized.
– Don’t Overcook: Thin cuts cook fast; aim for medium-rare to medium doneness to keep steak juicy.
– Rest Before Slicing: Always rest steak after cooking to lock in juices.
– Slice Against the Grain: This breaks up muscle fibers and makes the steak easier to chew.
Simple Sirloin Tip Steak Thin Cut Marinade Recipe
– 1 lb thin sliced sirloin tip steak (blade tenderized if possible)
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 5 tsp rice vinegar
– 3 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 green onions (slice whites and light greens for marinade, reserve dark greens for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and sliced green onions. Coat the steak well and marinate covered in the fridge for 6-24 hours. Before cooking, bring steak to room temperature, discard marinade, season lightly with salt and pepper, then sear quickly on each side. Rest, slice against the grain, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onion tops.
Sirloin tip steak thin cut is a flavorful and affordable cut that, with the right preparation and cooking technique, can be tender and delicious. Marinate it well, cook quickly over high heat, and slice against the grain for the best results. Enjoy your perfectly cooked sirloin tip steak with your favorite sides!