If you’ve never had tri-tip steak before, you may be curious about what it is and how to cook it right. Find out how to cook tri-tip steak at home and why this meat is so popular.
Tri-tip is a specific cut of beef, well-known for its rich flavor. Its name comes from the fact that it comes from the bottom of a sirloin cut and has a slim, triangular tip. Due to its popularity in southern California, many people call tri-tip the “California cut. ” For many people, tri-tip is the best of both worlds between a steak and a brisket. It has all the flavor of brisket and cooks like a tender piece of steak.
Move over pork chops and ham – it’s time to give pork tri tip a chance in the spotlight! This flavorful triangular cut of meat is quickly gaining fans but still flies under the radar for many home cooks. Keep reading to learn all about this juicy, versatile pork cut and why you should add it to your dinner rotation.
What is Pork Tri Tip Exactly?
Pork tri tip comes from the bottom sirloin of the pig. It’s a small, tapered triangular muscle that sits near the hip.
Also known as tensor fasciae latae or TFL for short, this cut was traditionally used for ground pork But cooks realized it could be an impressive roast on its own. Sliced against the grain when cooked properly, it is incredibly tender and juicy
On average pork tri tip roasts are around 2-3 pounds. The meat has moderate marbling resulting in a rich beefy flavor that distinguishes it from other blander pork cuts.
Why Choose Pork Tri Tip?
Compared to familiar cuts like loin or shoulder, what makes pork tri tip worth seeking out? Here are some of its best attributes:
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Tender and juicy – When sliced properly, it has a melt-in-your-mouth texture with ample moisture.
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Rich, meaty flavor – More intense porkiness than loin or chops. Takes well to smoking or grilling.
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Lower cost – Being less popular, it’s very budget-friendly for the quality.
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Lean and healthy – Has less fat than shoulder or belly cuts. High in protein, minerals like zinc and iron.
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Versatile – Stands up to bold rubs and marinades for tacos, kabobs, roasts, etc.
This cut definitely deserves more attention for its crave-worthy flavor and reasonable price.
Where to Buy Pork Tri Tip
Since it’s still gaining popularity, pork tri tip can require some searching. Try these sources:
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Specialty butcher shops and meat markets. Ask at the counter – they may keep it in the back.
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Online mail order meat companies. Search for “pork tri tip roast.”
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Large grocery stores like Costco that offer specialty cuts. Check the pork section.
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Direct from pig farmers at farmers’ markets. Ask if they have any for sale.
Don’t be afraid to ask your local butcher or farmer to get some in. The more requests they have, the more likely they are to regularly stock it.
How to Cook Juicy, Flavorful Pork Tri Tip
Cooking this cut properly brings out its naturally tender and moist properties. Follow these tips:
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Marinate – A flavorful marinade adds juiciness and flavor. Go for at least 2 hours or up to 1-2 days.
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Use moderate heat – High heat risks drying the lean meat. Cook to medium rare doneness.
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Rotate frequently – Whether grilling, broiling or roasting, rotate it every 5 minutes.
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Let rest before slicing – Waiting 10-15 minutes allows juices to redistribute so they don’t escape.
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Slice against the grain – This gives you the most tender texture.
With the right prep and cooking, pork tri tip can rival far more expensive cuts for tenderness and big flavor.
Tantalizing Recipe Ideas
From Mediterranean to Asian accents, pork tri tip shines in globally inspired dishes:
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Tacos with lime cilantro marinade, corn tortillas, salsa and avocado
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Kabobs with bell pepper and pineapple with Hawaiian jerk seasoning
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Thai lettuce wraps with tri tip, cabbage, carrots, peanuts and chili sauce
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Sandwiches layered with provolone, roasted red peppers and pesto mayo
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Greek salad over mixed greens with pork, feta, olives, onion and oregano vinaigrette
Take your dinner from boring to bold by swapping in this underrated cut. It takes well to any flavor profile.
Is Pork Tri Tip Right for You?
If you love pork and are seeking out new cuts, tri tip deserves a spot on your radar. It delivers on rich flavor and tenderness for a fraction of the price of premium cuts like tenderloin. With minimal prep, this satisfying meat can be the star of your next barbecue or weeknight dinner. Track some down and treat your taste buds to this underappreciated gem!
How To Cook Tri-Tip
There are many methods of cooking a tri-tip steak. Depending on your preferred cooking style and the tools you have on hand, you can smoke, barbecue, grill, or roast tri-tip cuts. No matter what method you use, the exact steps for cooking tri-tip will vary. However, whether you cook or smoke it, give it about 45 minutes.
It should be cooked at about 275 degrees Fahrenheit whether you put it in the oven or on the grill. A meat thermometer will always let you know when the meat is ready to be taken off the heat, no matter what method you use. Aim for an internal temperature of 125-135 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pork Tri Tip?
FAQ
Is tri-tip tender or tough?
Why is tri-tip so cheap?
What does tri-tip taste like?
What is pork tri tip?
This lesser-known cut of meat is a triangular muscle located in the bottom sirloin of the pig. While it may not be as well-known as other cuts, such as pork chops or bacon, pork tri tip is gaining popularity among meat enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore what pork tri tip is, how to cook it, and why it’s worth trying out.
Is pork tri-tip good for grilling?
Pork tri-tip is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that is perfect for grilling. It has a great flavor, but it is also relatively lean and easy to cook. When properly prepared, pork tri-tip can make a great addition to any BBQ. The key to cooking pork tri-tip is first to marinate the meat.
How to cook pork tri-tip?
Here are some tips on how to cook pork tri-tip for the perfect grilled BBQ meat: Start with a high-quality cut of pork tri-tip. Look for a cut that has a good amount of marbling, which will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Season the pork tri-tip generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite BBQ rub.
What is a tri-tip roast?
Tri-tip roast is a tender, lean beef cut that gets its name from its triangular shape. (It’s also called bottom sirloin roast and triangle roast, so keep an eye out for these synonyms for tri-tip roast.) It’s sold as a small roast from the bottom sirloin, or it’s cut into a steak with three tips.