If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a delicious, juicy, and flavorful cut of beef, tri tip is a fantastic choice. This triangular cut from the bottom sirloin is tender, packed with beefy flavor, and perfect for grilling or BBQ. Wondering how do you BBQ a tri tip to get that perfect crust and juicy center? Let’s dive into an easy, step-by-step guide to help you become a backyard BBQ hero.
What Is Tri Tip?
Tri tip is a relatively lean, triangular-shaped roast that weighs about 2 to 3 pounds. It’s popular in California and gaining fans everywhere for its rich flavor and versatility. When cooked right, it’s tender, juicy, and perfect for slicing thin against the grain.
Preparing Your Tri Tip for the Grill
1. Trim and Score (Optional)
If your tri tip has a thick fat cap, you can trim some of it off but leave a thin layer for flavor and moisture. Scoring the fat (making shallow cuts) helps seasonings penetrate better and promotes even cooking.
2. Season Generously
Keep it simple with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or use a favorite beef rub for extra flavor. For a quick homemade rub, mix equal parts salt, pepper, and garlic powder. For a deeper flavor, consider marinating overnight with ingredients like apple cider vinegar, chipotle, garlic, rosemary, or thyme.
Setting Up Your Grill
The key to BBQ tri tip is two-zone grilling:
– Indirect heat zone: For slow cooking the meat through without burning.
– Direct heat zone: For searing the outside to get that perfect crust.
Preheat your grill to about 350°F (medium heat). If using charcoal, pile coals on one side for two-zone cooking. If using gas, turn on half the burners.
How to BBQ a Tri Tip Step-by-Step
Step 1: Start with Indirect Heat
Place your seasoned tri tip on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat). Close the lid and cook for about 30-40 minutes, flipping every 6-7 minutes. This slow cooking allows the meat to cook evenly without drying out.
Step 2: Mop or Baste (Optional)
To add moisture and flavor, prepare a mopping liquid with olive oil, red wine, red wine vinegar, and crushed garlic. Brush this on the tri tip every time you flip it. This keeps the meat juicy and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
Step 3: Monitor Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for your preferred doneness:
– Rare: 115°F
– Medium Rare: 125°F
– Medium: 135°F
– Medium Well: 145°F
– Well Done: 150-160°F
Cooking to the right temperature is crucial for juicy, tender tri tip.
Step 4: Sear Over Direct Heat
Once your tri tip reaches about 120°F (for medium rare), move it to the direct heat side of the grill. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until you get a nice crust and the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. This step locks in the juices and adds a delicious smoky char.
Step 5: Rest Before Slicing
Remove the tri tip from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite juicy and tender.
Step 6: Slice Against the Grain
Tri tip has distinct grain lines running through it. Slice thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
Tips for the Best BBQ Tri Tip
– Bring to room temperature: Let your tri tip sit out for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
– Use a wireless meat thermometer: This helps you monitor temperature without lifting the lid and losing heat.
– Don’t skip the rest: Resting is key to juicy meat.
– Experiment with rubs and marinades: Garlic, rosemary, thyme, and chipotle add great flavor.
– Serve with BBQ sauce or chimichurri: A tasty sauce on the side complements the smoky flavor.
Why BBQ Tri Tip?
Tri tip is a crowd-pleaser because it’s affordable, flavorful, and cooks relatively quickly compared to larger roasts. It’s perfect for everything from casual family dinners to weekend BBQ parties. Plus, its unique shape and texture make it a fun cut to master on the grill.
Mastering how to BBQ a tri tip is easier than you think. With a little prep, the right grill setup, and attention to temperature, you’ll have a mouthwatering roast that’s juicy, tender, and full of smoky flavor every time.
Enjoy your grilling adventure and happy BBQing!