When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like a juicy and flavorful tri tip steak. This cut of beef is incredibly popular, but it can be tricky to get just right. The key to a perfect tri tip steak is all in the marinade. In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you how to make a delicious and juicy tri tip steak by sharing our favorite marinade recipes and tips for grilling.
What is Tri Tip Steak?
Before we dive into the marinade recipes, let’s talk about what tri tip steak is. Tri tip steak is a cut of beef that comes from the bottom sirloin. It’s a relatively lean cut with just enough marbling to keep it tender and flavorful. Tri tip steak is sometimes called a Santa Maria steak because it’s a popular cut in California’s Santa Maria Valley.
Why Marinade is Important for Tri Tip Steak
Tri tip steak is a relatively lean cut of beef, which means it can dry out easily if it’s overcooked or not prepared properly. This is where marinades come in. A good marinade can help tenderize the meat, add flavor, and keep it moist during the cooking process.
Basic Tri Tip Steak Marinade Recipe
Here’s a basic tri tip steak marinade recipe to get you started:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
Simply mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl or a plastic bag, add the steak, and let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Other Tri Tip Steak Marinade Recipes
If you’re looking for something a little different, here are a few other tri tip steak marinade recipes to try:
Chimichurri Marinade
Chimichurri is a popular Argentinean sauce that’s typically served with grilled meats. Here’s how to make a chimichurri marinade for tri tip steak:
- 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Combine all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Marinate the steak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Beer and Brown Sugar Marinade
Beer and brown sugar may sound like an odd combination, but it makes for a delicious marinade for tri tip steak. Here’s how to make it:
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl or a plastic bag, add the steak, and let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Asian Style Marinade
If you’re looking for something with a little more of an Asian flair, try this marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl or a plastic bag, add the steak, and let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Tips for Grilling Tri Tip Steak
Now that you have your marinade, it’s time to grill your tri tip steak. Here are some tips to get it just right:
1. Preheat your grill.
Make sure your grill is hot before you start cooking. You want the temperature to be around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Sear the steak.
Sear the steak on both sides for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Then, move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.
3. Use a meat thermometer.
To make sure your steak is cooked to the right temperature, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135-140 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Let it rest.
Once your steak is cooked to perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tri tip steak is a delicious cut of beef that can be enjoyed in many different ways. By using the right marinade and grilling techniques, you can create a juicy and flavorful steak that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or something a little more exotic, there’s a tri tip steak marinade recipe out there that’s perfect for you. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy one of the tastiest cuts of beef out there.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of steak for these marinade recipes?
While these marinade recipes were specifically designed for tri tip steak, you could certainly use them with other cuts of beef as well.
- How long should I let the steak rest before slicing?
Let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing to ensure that the juices have redistributed throughout the meat.
- Can I freeze marinated steak?
Yes, you can freeze marinated steak. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or plastic bag and label it with the date.
- What sides go well with tri tip steak?
Tri tip steak goes well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
- How can I tell if my steak is done without a meat thermometer?
While using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check for doneness, you can also use the touch test. Gently press the center of the steak with your finger – if it feels like the pad of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your index finger, it’s rare. If it feels like the pad of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your middle finger, it’s medium-rare. If it feels like the pad of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your ring finger, it’s medium. And if it feels like the pad of your thumb when you touch your thumb to your pinky finger, it’s well done.