What is Tri Tip?
Tri tip is a cut of beef from the bottom sirloin primal cut. It is a triangular muscle which is lean and tender, making it an ideal cut of meat for smoking. Tri tip is great for barbecues, as well as for roasting and grilling. It is popular in the western United States and is slowly gaining popularity in other parts of the country. Tri tip has a unique flavor that is both mild and slightly beefy, making it a favorite among beef lovers.
Choose Your Meat
When selecting your tri tip, look for a cut that is well-marbled, meaning that it has a good fat-to-meat ratio. The fat content will help keep the meat moist and juicy as it is smoked. If you are able to, try to select grass-fed or organic beef for the best flavor and quality. Tri tip is usually sold in two- to three-pound roasts, which should feed about four people.
Preparing the Tri Tip
Before you begin to smoke the tri tip, you will need to prepare it. If you purchased a whole roast, you can cut it into two or three equal pieces, depending on the size. Then, season the meat generously with your favorite dry rub. For a basic dry rub, mix together equal parts of garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. You can also add other seasonings such as onion powder, cumin, or chili powder to customize the flavor.
Preheating the Smoker
Once the tri tip is prepped, it is time to preheat the smoker. The most popular type of smoker for smoking tri tip is a wood-burning smoker, but you can also use a charcoal smoker or an electric smoker. For optimal results, the smoker should be preheated to a temperature between 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are using a wood-burning smoker, you should use hardwoods like hickory, oak, or mesquite for the best flavor.
Smoking the Tri Tip
Once the smoker is preheated, place the tri tip in the smoker. Close the lid and smoke the meat for two to three hours, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. During this time, you should check the temperature of the smoker every hour to make sure that it is staying at the proper temperature. You may also need to add more wood chips or charcoal to keep the fire going.
Resting the Tri Tip
Once the tri tip is done smoking, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender and juicy. Then, slice the tri tip against the grain into thin slices and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Smoked tri tip is delicious served on its own, but it is also great served with a variety of different accompaniments. Try serving it with a side of creamy macaroni and cheese or a vibrant green salad. It is also delicious served alongside grilled vegetables or mashed potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Smoked tri tip is a delicious and easy way to add an exciting flavor to your meal. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a flavorful and tender cut of beef that will be sure to satisfy your guests. Whether you are grilling it on the barbecue or smoking it in the smoker, this cut of beef is sure to be a hit. Now that you know how to make the perfect smoked tri tip, why not try it for yourself?
