What To Know
- The increased surface area of the strips allows for better charring and caramelization, resulting in a more intense and flavorful steak.
- Tri tip steak strips can be grilled, marinated, or seasoned in a variety of ways, making them a versatile ingredient for any meal.
- Place the tri tip strips on the hot grill and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a nice crust.
Tri tip steak, with its unique triangular shape and rich, buttery flavor, is a grilling favorite. But have you ever considered grilling it in strips? This versatile cut offers a perfect balance of tenderness and chewiness, making it ideal for grilling in bite-sized pieces. Learn how to grill tri tip steak strips to perfection with this comprehensive guide.
Why Grill Tri Tip Steak Strips?
Grilling tri tip steak strips offers several advantages over grilling the whole roast:
- Faster Cooking: Strips cook much faster than a whole roast, making them perfect for weeknight meals or when you’re short on time.
- Easy to Serve: Bite-sized strips are easy to handle and serve, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
- Greater Flavor: The increased surface area of the strips allows for better charring and caramelization, resulting in a more intense and flavorful steak.
- Versatile Preparation: Tri tip steak strips can be grilled, marinated, or seasoned in a variety of ways, making them a versatile ingredient for any meal.
Choosing the Right Tri Tip
The quality of your tri tip steak is crucial for a delicious grilling experience. Here’s what to look for:
- Marbling: Choose a cut with good marbling, which refers to the streaks of fat throughout the meat. This fat will melt during cooking, adding flavor and tenderness.
- Color: The meat should be a deep red color, indicating freshness. Avoid any cuts that are brown or have a grayish tint.
- Texture: The tri tip should feel firm to the touch, not mushy or watery.
Preparing Your Tri Tip Steak Strips
Before you start grilling, proper preparation is key:
1. Trim the Fat: Trim any excess fat from the tri tip, leaving a thin layer for flavor and moisture.
2. Cut into Strips: Cut the tri tip into strips approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
3. Season generously: Season the strips liberally with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
The Grilling Process
Now it’s time to fire up the grill:
1. Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (around 450-500°F). You’re aiming for a hot grill that will sear the outside of the strips quickly.
2. Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Sear the Strips: Place the tri tip strips on the hot grill and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a nice crust.
4. Reduce Heat: Once seared, reduce the heat to medium (around 350-400°F).
5. Cook to Desired Doneness: Cook the strips for an additional 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness.
6. Rest the Strips: Remove the strips from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
Tips for Grilling Success
- Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring your tri tip strips are cooked to your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
- Don’t Overcook: Tri tip steak is best cooked medium-rare to medium. Overcooked tri tip can become tough and dry.
- Flip Only Once: Flip the strips only once during cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent them from drying out.
- Add Smoke Flavor: If you’re using a charcoal grill, add a few wood chips to the coals for a smoky flavor.
Serving Your Grilled Tri Tip Steak Strips
Grilled tri tip steak strips are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Classic Steak Dinner: Serve the strips with a side of mashed potatoes, asparagus, and a red wine sauce.
- Tacos or Sandwiches: Slice the strips thinly and use them to create delicious tacos or sandwiches.
- Salads: Add grilled tri tip strips to salads for a hearty and flavorful protein boost.
- Skewers: Thread the strips onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers and onions for a fun and easy appetizer.
Beyond the Basics: Flavoring Your Tri Tip
Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to elevate your grilled tri tip steak strips:
- Citrus Marinade: Combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Spicy Marinade: Mix together soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
- Herb Butter: Combine softened butter with chopped herbs like parsley, chives, and oregano.
Time to Grill!
Grilling tri tip steak strips is a simple and rewarding experience. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create delicious and flavorful meals that will impress your family and friends.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I grill tri tip steak strips on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills are perfect for grilling tri tip strips. Just make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Q: How long should I marinate the tri tip strips?
A: Marinate the strips for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
Q: Can I freeze tri tip steak strips?
A: Yes, you can freeze tri tip steak strips for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
Q: What are some good side dishes for grilled tri tip steak strips?
A: Grilled tri tip steak strips pair well with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, asparagus, roasted vegetables, salads, and corn on the cob.
