Tri Tip Steaks
A large very tasty steak option!
Tri-tip steak is a flavorful cut of beef that comes from the bottom sirloin section of the cow. It is a triangular-shaped piece of meat, hence the name "tri-tip." It's known for its tender texture, juicy marbling, and bold beefy flavor, making it a popular choice for grilling, roasting, and smoking.
Here's some basic info about how to cook and serve tri-tip:
How to Cook Tri-Tip Steak:
- Grilling:
- Preparation: Season the tri-tip generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices or marinade. A simple rub of garlic, onion powder, and herbs like rosemary and thyme works well.
- Grill setup: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can use both direct and indirect heat.
- Searing: Place the tri-tip over direct heat to sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until a nice crust forms.
- Indirect heat: Move the meat to a cooler side of the grill and continue cooking for about 25-30 minutes, flipping once. The internal temperature should reach 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.
- Resting: Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
- Oven-Roasting:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Season the tri-tip with a rub or marinade.
- Sear the steak in a hot pan with oil on the stovetop for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired internal temperature.
- Let the meat rest before slicing.
- Smoking:
- If you're smoking the tri-tip, set your smoker to 225-250°F and cook for about 2-3 hours, depending on the size, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- This method imparts a rich, smoky flavor and results in a tender, juicy steak.
How to Serve Tri-Tip:
- Slicing: Always slice tri-tip against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Sides: Tri-tip pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, grilled corn, or a simple salad.
- Sauce: You can serve it with a chimichurri sauce, barbecue sauce, or just a squeeze of lemon for a fresh contrast.
Tri-Tip Variations:
- Santa Maria-Style Tri-Tip: This is a classic preparation from California, where the steak is seasoned with a simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic, and then grilled over oak wood.
- Marinated Tri-Tip: A marinade with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, mustard, and vinegar can help tenderize and add flavor to the meat.
Tri-tip is a relatively affordable cut for its flavor and tenderness, making it a great option for casual gatherings or a family dinner!