How to Cook Tri Tip in the Oven
If you’re a fan of tender and flavorful beef, then you must try cooking tri tip in the oven. Tri tip is a triangular-shaped cut of beef that is juicy, tender, and full of rich flavors. It’s perfect for a Sunday roast or any other special occasion. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking the perfect tri tip in the oven so that you can impress your friends and family with a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pounds of tri tip
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– Olive oil
– Garlic powder
– Paprika
– Onion powder
– Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
1. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure that it’s hot enough to cook the tri tip properly.
2. Prepare the tri tip by trimming off any excess fat. You want to leave a thin layer of fat on top to add flavor and prevent the meat from drying out.
3. Season the tri tip generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Use your hands to rub the seasonings into the meat, ensuring an even coating.
4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, sear both sides of the tri tip for about 2-3 minutes per side until a nice crust forms.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle Worcestershire sauce over the entire tri tip. This will help to enhance the flavor and add a tangy twist to the meat.
6. Transfer the skillet with the tri tip into the preheated oven. Cook the tri tip for about 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat and your desired level of doneness. Remember to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
7. Once the tri tip reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it with foil for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and makes the meat even more tender.
8. Slice the tri tip against the grain and serve it with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
FAQs:
Q: Can I marinate the tri tip before cooking it in the oven?
A: Yes, you can marinate the tri tip to add even more flavor. Prepare a marinade using ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, and herbs. Place the tri tip in a ziplock bag, pour the marinade over it, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Q: Can I cook tri tip at a lower temperature for a longer time?
A: Yes, you can cook tri tip at a lower temperature, around 275°F (135°C), for a longer time if you prefer. It will result in a more evenly cooked and tender meat, but the crust may not be as crispy as with the higher temperature method.
Q: How should I store leftover tri tip?
A: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the tri tip for up to 3 months. Make sure to slice it before freezing for easier portioning.
Q: Can I use the same recipe for grilling tri tip?
A: Absolutely! The same seasoning and cooking instructions can be applied to grilling tri tip. Simply follow the steps for searing the meat on a hot grill instead of a skillet, then move it to indirect heat and cook until the desired internal temperature is reached.
Now that you know how to cook tri tip in the oven, it’s time to gather the ingredients, preheat your oven, and get cooking. Enjoy the juicy and flavorful meat that will make your taste buds sing!
