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October 27, 2024
If you’re looking to impress your friends and family at your next summer barbecue, cooking a tri tip steak on the grill is a surefire way to do it. This tender and flavorful cut of meat, also known as the triangle tip or bottom sirloin tip, is popular on the West Coast of the United States, and for good reason. It’s easy to cook and delicious to eat when done right.
Before you get started, it’s important to properly season your tri tip steak. You can create a simple but tasty rub using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other seasonings you prefer. Make sure to generously coat both sides of the steak and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Now it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If your grill has multiple burners, set one side to high heat and the other side to low heat. This will give you the option to sear the steak first and then finish cooking it on indirect heat, resulting in a perfectly cooked tri tip steak with a nice crust on the outside and tender interior.
When the grill is hot and ready, place the tri tip steak directly over the high heat and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side. This will help to lock in the juices and create that beautiful charred crust. Once seared, move the steak to the cooler side of the grill and continue cooking with the lid closed. Cook for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
When the steak is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy tri tip steak. Finally, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips and serve it up with your favorite sides or on a bed of greens for a delicious and satisfying meal.
With these simple steps, you’ll be able to cook a tri tip steak on the grill like a pro. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a tasty steak dinner, this flavorful and tender cut of meat is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, season your steak, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Choosing the right cut
When it comes to grilling a tri tip steak, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. The tri tip is a triangular-shaped cut that comes from the bottom sirloin of the cow. It is known for its rich and beefy flavor, as well as its tender and juicy texture.
When selecting a tri tip steak, look for one that is well-marbled with fat. The marbling adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking. Additionally, choose a steak that is a dark red color, as this indicates that it is fresh and has been properly aged.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a tri tip steak is the size. Aim for a steak that is between 1.5-2 pounds in weight. This size allows for even cooking and ensures that the steak remains juicy and tender.
Lastly, pay attention to the thickness of the steak. A thickness of 1.5-2 inches is ideal, as it allows for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and pink.
Why tri tip steak is a great choice
The tri tip steak is a versatile and flavorful cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. It is tender and marbled with just the right amount of fat, which enhances the texture and taste of the meat. Tri tip steak is also leaner than other cuts, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
1. Flavor
Tri tip steak has a rich and beefy flavor that is enhanced by grilling. The marbling of fat throughout the meat adds juiciness and tenderness, resulting in a more enjoyable dining experience. The steak also absorbs marinades and seasonings well, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.
2. Versatility
Tri tip steak can be cooked to your desired doneness, whether it’s medium-rare, medium, or well-done. It can also be sliced thinly to be used in sandwiches or cut into larger portions for a hearty meal. The steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Overall, the tri tip steak is a fantastic choice for grilling due to its incredible flavor and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, the tri tip steak is sure to impress.
Preparing the steak
Before cooking your tri tip steak on the grill, it’s important to prepare it properly to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings adhere better to the meat.
Beef Loin Tri Tip Roast Step 1
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Next, season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. Rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure they penetrate the surface.
For extra flavor, you can marinate the steak in a mixture of olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and herbs for at least 1 hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This will further tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors.
Before grilling, take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow for more even cooking.
Now you’re ready to grill your tri tip steak to perfection!
Trimming excess fat from the steak
Before cooking a tri tip steak on the grill, it’s important to trim excess fat from the steak to prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking. Here are the steps to properly trim the fat:
Step 1: Choose a sharp knife
Start by selecting a sharp knife that is comfortable to hold. A kitchen knife or a boning knife will work well for this task.
Step 2: Remove the thick outer layer of fat
Place the tri tip steak on a cutting board and locate the thick outer layer of fat. Starting from one end, insert the knife under the fat and gently lift it away from the meat. Use a back-and-forth motion to separate the fat from the steak. Be careful not to remove too much meat along with the fat.
Step 3: Trim excess fat from the sides
Next, trim any excess fat from the sides of the steak. Hold the knife parallel to the cutting board and carefully slice off any visible fat. Aim to remove the fat while preserving the shape of the steak.
Step 4: Remove any remaining fat
Inspect the steak for any remaining pieces of fat. If you come across any fatty areas, use the knife to carefully remove them. Trim off the fat, leaving a thin layer on the steak for added flavor and moisture.
Once you have finished trimming the excess fat, your tri tip steak is ready to be seasoned and cooked on the grill. Trimming the fat not only improves the appearance of the steak but also prevents excessive smoke and flare-ups during grilling.
Seasoning the steak to enhance flavors
Before grilling the tri tip steak, it is important to season it properly to enhance the flavors. Here are a few simple steps to season your steak:
- Start by patting the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat better.
- Generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat, while the black pepper will add a hint of spiciness.
- For additional flavor, you can also add other spices and herbs to the steak. Common options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, or rosemary. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your preferred flavor profile.
- After seasoning the steak, gently press the seasoning into the meat to ensure it adheres well. Let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
- If you have enough time, you can also marinate the steak for a few hours or overnight to infuse more flavor. Use a marinade of your choice, such as a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs.
By properly seasoning your tri tip steak, you can enhance its natural flavors and create a delicious and savory grilled dish.
Grilling the steak
Once your tri tip steak has been marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill and start cooking. Follow these steps to grill your steak to perfection:
1. Preheat the grill
Before you start grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the grill grates are hot enough to sear the steak and lock in the juices.
2. Oil the grill grates
To prevent the steak from sticking to the grill grates, lightly oil the grates. You can use a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil and rub it over the grates.
3. Sear the steak
Place the marinated tri tip steak directly onto the hot grill grates. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it develops a nice crust.
4. Move to indirect heat
Once the steak has been seared on both sides, move it to the cooler side of the grill, away from the direct heat. This will allow the steak to cook more evenly without becoming charred.
5. Grill to desired doneness
Cook the steak on indirect heat for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well done.
6. Let it rest
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
Now that your tri tip steak is perfectly grilled, it’s ready to be sliced and served. Enjoy!
Q&A
What is a tri tip steak?
A tri tip steak is a cut of beef that comes from the bottom sirloin subprimal cut. It is a triangular-shaped muscle that is known for its rich flavor and tenderness.
How do I prepare a tri tip steak for grilling?
To prepare a tri tip steak for grilling, you will want to start by seasoning it with your choice of seasonings. You can use a simple salt and pepper rub, or you can get creative with your own blend of herbs and spices. After seasoning, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
What is the best way to grill a tri tip steak?
To grill a tri tip steak, you want to start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your liking. Once cooked, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Can I marinate a tri tip steak before grilling?
Absolutely! Marinating a tri tip steak before grilling can add extra flavor and tenderness to the meat. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs. Simply place the steak in the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor. Remember to discard the marinade after use.