The Ultimate Guide to Rubbing Your Tri-Tip Steak: Tips and Recipes

When it comes to grilling the perfect tri-tip steak, the key is not to overpower the natural taste of the meat. Let the flavors shine through by using simple yet effective seasoning methods. In this guide, we will explore the best rub recipes for your tri-tip steak, as well as a popular chimichurri sauce that complements the meat beautifully.

Welcome to Meat Church

For serious meat enthusiasts, there’s a unique community called MP (Meat and Potatoes), where they advocate for the true essence of meat. A recent recommendation from them – Holy Cow – is a great seasoning choice for your tri-tip. For a more traditional and equally delicious option, Raven’s seasoning is a standout choice for many. However, if you prefer to stick to simple yet effective methods, you can use just salt and pepper for optimal flavor.

DIY Tri-Tip Rub Recipe

For those who enjoy creating their rubs from scratch, here’s a recipe that you can customize to your taste.

Ingredients:

2-3 minced garlic cloves Crushed black pepper Sauteed onion Worcestershire sauce Olive oil

Mix these ingredients together and marinate your tri-tip overnight for that perfect blend of flavors. This combination will infuse your steak with a rich and savory taste, making every bite mouthwatering.

The Classic Salt and Pepper Method

For a simpler approach, salt and pepper are your allies. Here’s how to use them effectively:

Trim and Dry Brine:

Remove any excess fat from the tri-tip and season it with one teaspoon of Diamond Kosher salt per pound of meat. Cover the tri-tip and refrigerate it overnight. If you’re short on time, three to four hours will help the seasoning penetrate the meat. For a more robust flavor, you can also make a rub by mixing the salt with a combination of coarsely ground black pepper, granulated garlic, granulated onion, sweet paprika, Aleppo pepper flakes, crushed dry thyme, and broken dry rosemary. Apply the rub generously and let it rest for 15-30 minutes in the fridge. You can also mix a small amount of water to create a paste and smother the meat. If you prefer a milder rub, you can reduce the amount of Aleppo pepper and black pepper. For a hint of sweetness, add a touch of sugar. If you omit the thyme or rosemary, the rub will still be flavorful. As an alternative, you can use a packaged Santa Maria rub. However, avoid dry brining if the rub already contains salt.

Enriching Your Tri-Tip with Chimichurri Sauce

To elevate your tri-tip experience, serve it with a tangy and aromatic chimichurri sauce. This sauce is a blend of parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil, often seasoned with oregano, red pepper flakes, and a hint of salt.

Ingredients for Chimichurri: Maintanza or flat leaf parsley Fresh garlic Red wine vinegar Olive oil Red pepper flakes (optional) Kosher salt (optional)

Chop the parsley and garlic finely, mix them with the vinegar and a generous amount of olive oil. Optionally, add red pepper flakes and salt to taste. Let the chimichurri rest for a while to develop its flavors. Enjoy your perfectly seasoned and grilled tri-tip with a side of this zesty chimichurri sauce!

By following these recipes and tips, you can create a truly exceptional tri-tip steak that will impress both you and your guests. Happy grilling!