If you’ve ever wondered how to cook a tri tip and get that juicy, tender, flavorful beef everyone raves about, you’re in the right place! Tri tip is a fantastic cut of beef that’s versatile, affordable, and packed with rich flavor. Whether you’re a grill master or an oven enthusiast, this guide will walk you through the best ways to cook tri tip with simple steps and tasty tips.
What Is Tri Tip?
Tri tip is a triangular cut from the bottom sirloin of the cow. It’s known for its robust beefy flavor and relatively lean texture. Because it’s a bit tougher than premium steaks, it benefits from proper seasoning, marinating, and cooking techniques that bring out its best qualities.
Preparing Your Tri Tip
Before cooking, bring your tri tip to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly. You can season it simply with salt and pepper or use a flavorful marinade or dry rub to enhance the taste.
Simple Dry Rub Ingredients:
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Garlic powder
– Paprika
– Optional: smoked paprika and cayenne for a smoky, spicy kick
Rub these spices all over the tri tip and let it rest for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Marinade Option:
For a juicy, aromatic tri tip, try a marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Marinate for 6-10 hours for best results.
Cooking Methods for Tri Tip
1. Oven Roasting
Oven roasting is a straightforward way to cook tri tip, especially if you don’t have access to a grill.
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Sear the tri tip in a hot pan with olive or avocado oil for about 4 minutes on each side to develop a crust.
– Transfer the pan to the oven and roast until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare (about 15-17 minutes).
– Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Grilling
Grilling tri tip is a classic method, especially popular in California’s Santa Maria-style barbecue.
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
– Sear the tri tip on each side to get a nice crust.
– Move the tri tip to indirect heat and cook until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
– Rest the meat for 15 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
3. Low and Slow + High Heat Finish
For tender, smoky tri tip, try this two-step approach:
– Marinate your tri tip and cook it at a low temperature (225°F) in the oven or smoker until it reaches about 115°F (this can take 60-90 minutes).
– Wrap it in foil and increase the heat to 450-500°F to sear and finish cooking to 135-145°F.
– Rest for 15-30 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Tips for Perfect Tri Tip
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your tri tip is cooked perfectly to your desired doneness.
– Slice against the grain: This breaks up the muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender.
– Rest your meat: Letting tri tip rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.
– Experiment with seasonings: From coffee and chipotle to fresh herbs and citrus, tri tip is forgiving and takes well to many flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Tri tip is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:
– Sliced thin on sandwiches with horseradish sauce or aioli
– Served over a fresh salad with vinaigrette
– Paired with roasted vegetables or grilled corn
– Topped with chimichurri or salsa verde for a zesty twist
Tri tip is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to cook at home. With a little seasoning, the right cooking method, and proper resting, you’ll have a delicious, juicy roast that’s perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy your tri tip adventure and happy cooking!