Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef

Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is a beloved California classic that has been a staple in the region for generations. This flavorful and tender cut of beef is traditionally seasoned with a simple yet delicious blend of salt, pepper, and garlic, then grilled over a hot open flame. The result is a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings with family and friends.

Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef
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Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

25 mins

Additional Time:

4 hrs 30 mins

Total Time:

5 hrs 15 mins

Servings:

6

Ingredients

Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 ½ teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 (2 1/2 pound) beef tri-tip roast
⅓ cup red wine vinegar
⅓ cup vegetable oil
4 cloves crushed garlic
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

Directions

Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef

Step 1

Gather the ingredients.

Step 2

Stir salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, rosemary, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl.

Step 3

Place tri-tip in a glass baking dish and coat on all sides with spice mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours.

Step 4

Combine vinegar, vegetable oil, crushed garlic, and Dijon mustard in a sealable container. Cover the container and shake until ingredients are blended.

Step 5

Remove tri-tip from the refrigerator. Let sit uncovered at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Step 6

Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat; lightly oil the grates.

Step 7

Place tri-tip on the preheated grill and brush with vinegar mixture. Cook for 4 minutes, flip, and baste. Flip and baste every 4 minutes until tri-tip starts to firm up and is reddish-pink and juicy in the center, 25 to 30 minutes total. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 130 degrees F (54 degrees C).

Step 8

Let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

452

Calories

24g

Fat

4g

Carbs

53g

Protein

Complement

The origins of Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef can be traced back to the ranching community of Santa Maria Valley in the 19th century. The local ranchers would cook the triangular cut of beef over a red oak fire, creating a unique and savory flavor that has become a hallmark of this beloved dish. Today, Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is a popular choice for barbecue enthusiasts and food lovers alike, and its versatility makes it a favorite for pairing with a variety of sides and sauces. Whether enjoyed as a sandwich, served with grilled vegetables, or simply sliced and savored on its own, Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is a delicious and satisfying dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of California.