Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly special – my family’s secret.What is tri-tip. Forget those bland marinades you find in the store. This one is a game-changer. If you try this, you’ll never go back. Is it like comparing a sad, wilted salad to grilled steak, juicy and bursting with flavor? My grandfather used to make this for every family barbecue, and the smell alone brings back so many memories. Happy memories. It’s incredibly easy, too, which is a huge bonus. Can you whip this up in minutes and let the magic happen overnight? What makes our tri-tip unforgettable?
What is Tri-Tip?
So, what exactly *is* tri-tip? Well, think of it as the unsung hero of the beef world. It’s a triangular cut from the bottom sirloin, and when cooked right, it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s essentially a hidden gem! It gets its name from its triangular shape, of course. I always tell people it’s like a cross between a steak and a roast – you get the best of both worlds! It’s popular on the West Coast, especially in California, but I think everyone deserves to experience its deliciousness. When marinated properly, tri-tip becomes incredibly juicy and infused with flavor, which is why this marinade is so important!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Why do I need this book?Tri-tip marinade in your life. First and foremost: the flavor! We’re talking a symphony of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes that complement the beef perfectly. It’s not overpowering, but it definitely elevates the flavor of the tri-tip to a whole new level. What I love most is how incredibly easy it is to make. It takes maybe 10 minutes, tops, to throw everything together. Honestly, I’ve made it so many times I could probably do it in my sleep!
And let’s not forget about the cost! All the ingredients are things you probably already have in your pantry, so you’re not breaking the bank. Plus, a well-marinated tri-tip is so flavorful that you don’t need a ton of fancy sides to make a complete meal. It’s a total budget-friendly win! And the versatility! You can grill it, roast it, or even smoke it! I’ve even seen people use it in slow cookers. No matter how you cook it, this marinade will deliver amazing results. It’s honestly one of my favorite things to make. I even love it more than my usual steak marinade. Trust me on this one, folks!
How to Make Tri-Tip Marinade
Quick Overview
Making this What is tri-tipAll you need to do is whisk together the ingredients, pour it over your tri-tip, and let it marinate for an hour. For at least 4 hours (or even better, overnight! Is it really that simple? How do I make sure my tri-tip is completely submerged in the marinade so every single bit gets sucked in? a chance to soak up all that delicious flavor. I find that using a large zip-top bag works best, but you can also use an empty container. I use one for stowing my shoes. Is there a
Ingredients
For the Tri-Tip Marinade:
* 1/2 cup soy sauce: I prefer low-sodium so it’s not too salty. Extra virgin Olive Oil adds a nice richness. * 1/4 cup red wine vinegar: 1 cup per serving. What do you like about Worcestershire sauce? What is the secret ingredient that adds depth and umami? * 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: This helps to emulsify the marinade and adds a subtle flavor. * 2 tablespoons brown sugar: This balances out the acidity and adds a touch of sweetness. * 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! * 1 tablespoon dried oregano: What is the best way to add a touch of Mediterranean to your meal? * 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick! I always add them – I like a bit of heat.
How do I get the
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients. Soy sauce, Olive Oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar. Garlic, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until the brown sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined. I usually give it a good whisk for about 1 minute or 2 just to make sure everything is nicely done.
Step 2: Marinate the Tri-Tip
Place the tri-tip in a zip-top bag or container with an tight-fitting lid. How do you marinate a tri-tip? If using a zip-top bag, squeeze out any excess air and seal tightly. If using a container, make sure the lid is on securely. I always like to massage the marinade into the meat a bit to make sure it really gets in there. How do you poke holes in a tri-tip? I usually skip this step unless I’m in a hurry.
Step 3: Refrigerate
Is it safe to use a tri-tip for at least 4 hours? The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! I usually flip the bag or container every few hours to make sure the tri-tip marinates evenly. Don’t marinate meat for more than 24 hours, or it will become mushy.
Step 4: Cook the Tri-Tip
Remove the tri-tip from the marinade and discard it. How do you pat a tri-tip dry with paper towels? Preheat your grill or oven to your desired temperature. I usually grill it over medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Is it possible to roast a chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes? Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once the tri-tip is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This is crucial! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful tri-tip. Slice the tri-tip against the grain. This is important because the grain of the meat runs in different directions on different parts of the tri-tip. Look closely and slice accordingly. I always use a sharp knife to ensure clean slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing stuff. Isn’t itTri-tip marinadeWhat are the possibilities? This tri-tip is so versatile, it pairs well with just about anything.What is a classic BBQ?Serve with grilled corn on the cob, Potato Salad, and coleslaw. What are some of the best side dishes to serve with barbecue sauce? My family loves baked beans. Is that a bad thing?For a Fancy Dinner:Pair it with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, and a side salad. What makes a meal special? I sometimes add balsamic glaze to the roasted asparagus for a touch of sweetness.For a casual weeknight meal: Slice the tri-tip and serve it in tacos or sandwiches. This is a quick and easy way to use up leftovers, too. I like to add some shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa to my tacos. You can also use it in salads for added protein.
Honestly, I’ve served this tri-tip with everything from mac and cheese to risotto, and it’s always a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different pairings!
How do I perfect my tri-tips?
What are some tips and tricks to take your tri-tip game to the next level? I’ve made this recipe countless times, and I have learned a few things along the way.Don’t over-Should I marinate a tri-tip for at least 4 hours? The acid in the marinade can start to break down the meat and make it mushy. I learned this the hard way.Pat it Dry: Before cooking, pat the tri-tip dry with paper towels. This will help it to sear properly and get a nice crust.
* What is a meat thermometer?What is a meat thermometer? How do you cook a chicken to your liking? I always recommend using one!Let it Rest:What is the importance of this? Let the tri-tip rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute. What is the best way to make a tri-tip? Don’t skip this step!Slice Against the Grain: What is Slice againstWhat is super important? The grain of meat runs in different directions on different parts of the tri-tip. How do you slice a tri-tip?Experiment with Flavors:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of marinade. Can you add different herbs, spices, or sauces to customize the flavor to your liking? I’ve tried adding rosemary, thyme, and even a little bit of chili powder. Is it really necessary? What are some tips for cooking perfect tri-tips?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
So, you’ve cooked this amazing tri-tip, and now you have leftovers (if you are lucky!)? How do you store and reheat it to maintain its deliciousness?Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving cooked tri-tip at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can start to grow, and you don’t want to risk getting sick. If you’re serving it at a party, keep it warm in a Slow Cooker or on a warming tray.
* Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover tri-tip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed to prevent it from drying out.
* Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze leftover tri-tip. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
* Reheating: To reheat tri-tip, you can use the microwave, oven, or skillet. For the microwave, slice it thinly and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent it from drying out. For the oven, wrap it in foil with a little bit of broth or water and heat it at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. For the skillet, slice it thinly and sear it over medium heat until heated through. Be careful not to overcook it, or it will become tough.
These tips will help you to store and reheat your tri-tip properly so you can enjoy it for days to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Okay, friends, I truly hope you give this tri-tip marinade a try. It’s a family favorite for a reason! It’s easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just making a quick weeknight dinner, this marinade will elevate your tri-tip to a whole new level. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other grilling recipes. I have a whole collection of delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that are perfect for summer barbecues. Happy grilling, everyone! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Tri-Tip Marinade
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Soy Sauce
- 0.5 cup Worcestershire Sauce
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, olive oil, brown sugar, oregano, and black pepper.
- Place the tri-tip in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Grill or smoke the tri-tip according to your preferred method, until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Let the tri-tip rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
