What is a Tri-Tip Roast and how do you cook it?

Tri-Tip Roast: The tri-tip roast is actually not a roast at all, it is a triangular cut of beef from the bottom sirloin and is cooked just like you would a steak. It is known for its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. It's a favorite for grilling and roasting due to its marbling and versatility. This is a unique steak that tastes great and would be great served family style.

Cooking Tri-Tip Like a Steak on the Grill

Ingredients:

• 1-2 lb tri-tip roast
• Salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning
• Fresh herbs (optional, such as rosemary or thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

   • Take the tri-tip out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
   • Pat it dry with paper towels.
   • Season generously with your favorite seasoning, some of my favorites are salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder 

2. Grilling:

   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
   • Place the tri-tip on the grill and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, until a nice crust forms (brownish crisp on the outside)
   • Reduce the heat to medium or move the tri-tip to a cooler part of the grill.
   • Continue grilling, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium. 

NOTE: You can always finish in the oven to get your beef up to temp. Once I have my crust, I will often toss it in a cast iron skillet in the oven at 350 to finish cooking, checking every 5-7mins.

1. Resting:

   • Remove the tri-tip from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

2. Serving:

   • Slice the tri-tip against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Cooking Tri-Tip Like a Steak Inside

Ingredients:

• 1-2 lb tri-tip roast
• Salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning
• Fresh herbs (optional, such as rosemary or thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

   • Let the tri-tip come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
   • Pat it dry with paper towels.
   • Season with your favorites

2. Searing:

   • Preheat a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat.
   • Add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet.
   • Sear the tri-tip on all sides for about 4-5 minutes per side, until a crust forms.

3. Oven Cooking:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Transfer the skillet with the tri-tip to the oven.
   • Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium.

4. Resting:

   • Remove the skillet from the oven and let the tri-tip rest on a cutting board for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

5. Serving:

   • Slice the tri-tip against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy the delicious, flavorful tri-tip prepared in these easy methods.