How to Grill the Perfect Santa Maria Tri Tip on a Traeger

The blog post from Traeger Grills provides a detailed recipe for making Santa Maria Tri-Tip. It includes a list of ingredients needed to prepare a dry rub for the tri-tip, such as salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, rosemary, and cayenne. The recipe guides readers through the process of seasoning the tri-tip, preheating the grill, and cooking the meat to achieve the perfect doneness. Additionally, it offers tips on slicing the tri-tip for serving.

Key Ingredients for the Dry Rub:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Rosemary
• Cayenne

Cooking Instructions:

1. Seasoning: Combine the ingredients to make the dry rub and thoroughly coat the tri-tip.
2. Preheating the Grill: Preheat the grill to 450°F.
3. Cooking: Place the tri-tip on the grill and cook until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
4. Slicing: Allow the meat to rest before slicing against the grain for serving.

Tips:

• Rest the meat to ensure juices redistribute and enhance the flavor.
• Slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Santa Maria Tri-Tip on a Traeger Grill

Santa Maria Tri-Tip is a classic Californian dish, renowned for its rich flavor and tender texture. Perfecting this dish on a Traeger grill brings out the best in the meat, thanks to precise temperature control and the infusion of smoky goodness. This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve tri-tip perfection, from seasoning to slicing.

Crafting the Perfect Dry Rub:

The magic of Santa Maria Tri-Tip lies in its flavorful crust, created by a carefully crafted dry rub. The essential ingredients for the rub are:

• Salt: Enhances the meat's natural flavors.
• Black Pepper: Adds a robust spice.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a savory depth.
• Paprika: Introduces a hint of sweetness and color.
• Onion Powder: Complements the garlic with a mild, sweet taste.
• Rosemary: Infuses an earthy aroma.
• Cayenne: Adds a subtle heat.

Mix these ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. This blend not only seasons the meat but also forms a delicious crust when grilled.

Preparing the Tri-Tip:

Start by selecting a high-quality tri-tip roast. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres well. Generously apply the dry rub, pressing it into the meat on all sides. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Mastering the Grill:

Preheat your Traeger grill to 450°F. The high heat is crucial for searing the meat, which locks in juices and creates a beautiful crust. Place the tri-tip directly on the grill grates and close the lid. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Remember, the key to juicy tri-tip is not overcooking.

Resting and Slicing:

Once the tri-tip reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful. When slicing, cut against the grain to ensure each piece is as tender as possible.

Serving Suggestions:

Santa Maria Tri-Tip pairs beautifully with traditional sides like grilled vegetables, garlic bread, and a fresh green salad. For an authentic experience, serve it with pinquito beans and salsa.

Conclusion:

Grilling Santa Maria Tri-Tip on a Traeger is an art form that combines the right seasoning, precise grilling, and proper slicing. By following these steps, you'll be able to serve a dish that's sure to impress, whether for a family dinner or a special occasion. Embrace the smoky flavors and tender texture of this classic dish, and enjoy the culinary journey it offers.