Santa Maria-Style Tri-Tip

Beef · Tri-tip
Santa Maria-Style Tri-Tip

Tri-tip was popularised in Santa Maria, California, and is still cooked over red oak coals in the original tradition. A simple dry rub and a reverse sear produces a juicy, deeply flavoured roast.

Serves 4–6 peoplePrep 15 minCook 1 hr
What to ask for
This recipe calls for Tri-tip. Can't get it where you are?

Ingredients & method

Ingredients

  • 1 tri-tip roast (about 1.2 kg)
  • 2 tsp garlic salt
  • 2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil
  • Garlic bread and pinquito beans to serve (traditional)

Method

  1. 1Combine all the dry spices. Rub the tri-tip all over with oil, then press the spice rub into both sides. Leave at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  2. 2Set up a grill for indirect heat — coals to one side, or one burner on medium on a gas grill. Target 120 °C ambient temperature.
  3. 3Cook the tri-tip over indirect heat, lid closed, until the internal temperature reaches 48 °C, about 40–45 minutes.
  4. 4Move to direct high heat. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until a deep crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 55–57 °C.
  5. 5Rest for 10 minutes. Carve against the grain — note that the grain runs in two directions on a tri-tip, so rotate when you reach the midpoint.

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Chef's tip
Tri-tip has a distinct grain direction that changes midway through the cut. Identify the seam and carve each half separately to get tender slices throughout.

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