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Santa Maria-Style Barbecue Tri-Tip Recipe

Santa Maria-Style Barbecue Tri-Tip
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Santa Maria-style barbecue tri-tip is a flavorful, tender cut of beef, slow-cooked over an open flame with a simple yet robust seasoning. This recipe brings the authentic taste of California’s Central Coast to your backyard.

Ingredients

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  • 1 (2-3 pound) beef tri-tip roast
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Pat the tri-tip roast dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). This is your Santa Maria-style rub.
  3. Rub the tri-tip generously with olive oil, then thoroughly coat with the spice rub, pressing it into the meat.
  4. Allow the tri-tip to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before grilling.
  5. Prepare your grill for indirect heat, aiming for a temperature of 250-300°F (120-150°C). If using charcoal, push coals to one side. If using gas, turn off burners on one side.
  6. Place the tri-tip on the cooler side of the grill, fat side up. Close the lid and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 120-125°F (49-52°C) for rare, or 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
  7. Once the desired internal temperature is reached, move the tri-tip directly over the hot coals or direct heat. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms.
  8. Remove the tri-tip from the grill and let it rest, tented with foil, for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  9. Slice against the grain into thin pieces. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For best results, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
  • Always slice tri-tip against the grain, which changes direction in different parts of the cut.
  • Serve with your favorite barbecue sides like grilled corn, baked beans, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://richfeast.com/santa-maria-style-barbecue-tri-tip/