Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef

Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is a popular dish that hails from Santa Maria, a city located in California’s Central Coast region. It is a classic example of Central Coast cuisine, which is heavily influenced by Spanish and Mexican flavors. The dish is named after the cut of beef used, which is the tri-tip, a triangular muscle located on the bottom sirloin.

One of the peculiarities of Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is its traditional preparation method. The meat is typically seasoned with a simple rub consisting of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. It is then cooked over an open flame on a grill, often using red oak wood for added flavor. This grilling technique gives the beef a distinct smoky taste and aroma that is characteristic of the dish.

Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is commonly cooked for large gatherings or events, such as barbecues or outdoor parties. The tri-tip is a relatively affordable and versatile cut of meat, making it suitable for feeding a crowd. It is usually cooked to medium-rare or medium doneness, ensuring that it remains tender and juicy.

In terms of taste and aroma, Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef offers a rich and savory experience. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the beef’s natural umami taste, while the seasoning adds a subtle kick of garlic and black pepper. The aroma of the meat sizzling on the grill is enticing and mouthwatering.

The texture of Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is another noteworthy aspect. When cooked correctly, the tri-tip should have a tender and slightly chewy texture. The outer layer is typically seared to perfection, creating a flavorful crust, while the inner meat remains juicy and succulent.

The dish’s features and usefulness lie in its simplicity and versatility. Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef can be served as the main course alongside various sides such as grilled vegetables, salads, or beans. It is also a popular choice for sandwiches or tacos, where the meat can be thinly sliced and stuffed into a tortilla or bread. The dish’s affordability and ability to feed a large number of people make it an excellent option for gatherings and events. Additionally, the flavors and textures of Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef appeal to a wide range of palates, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Cooking equipment

1. Grill: A trusty grill is the heart and soul of this Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish. Whether it’s a gas grill or a charcoal grill, make sure it’s in good working condition to achieve that perfect smoky flavor.

2. Grill Grate: To ensure those beautiful grill marks on your tri-tip beef, a sturdy grill grate is essential. Opt for a cast-iron or stainless steel grate that can handle the heat and provide even cooking.

3. Tongs: These long-handled tongs will be your best friend when it comes to flipping and maneuvering the tri-tip beef on the grill. Look for tongs with a good grip and a locking mechanism for easy storage.

4. Meat Thermometer: To achieve the perfect doneness, a reliable meat thermometer is a must-have. Insert it into the thickest part of the tri-tip beef, and you’ll always know when it’s cooked to your desired temperature.

5. Basting Brush: Enhance the flavors of your tri-tip beef by basting it with marinades or sauces. A silicone basting brush is ideal for evenly distributing the goodness while being heat-resistant and easy to clean.

6. Cutting Board: Once your tri-tip beef is grilled to perfection, you’ll need a spacious cutting board to let it rest. Look for a sturdy wooden or plastic board that can catch any juices released during resting.

7. Slicing Knife: To slice your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef into mouthwatering pieces, a sharp slicing knife is indispensable. A long, thin blade will make it easier to achieve those thin, succulent slices.

8. Serving Platter: Present your masterpiece on a beautiful serving platter. Whether it’s a rustic wooden board or an elegant ceramic dish, choose something that will showcase your tri-tip beef and make mouths water.

9. Side Dishes: While not exactly utensils, no Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish is complete without some delicious side dishes. Think about including traditional accompaniments like garlic bread, grilled vegetables, or savory mashed potatoes.

Now that you have your arsenal of kitchen utensils ready, it’s time to fire up the grill and embark on a flavor-packed journey with your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

1. Tri-Tip Beef: The star of the show, this cut of beef is tender, flavorful, and perfect for grilling. It’s the hero that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
2. Garlic: A generous amount of freshly minced garlic adds a punch of flavor to the beef, infusing it with a delightful aroma that will make your mouth water.
3. Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a touch of warmth to the dish, enhancing the richness of the beef and giving it that irresistible Santa Maria flavor.
4. Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper brings a bold and peppery kick to the marinade, complementing the beef and elevating its natural flavors.
5. Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt helps to enhance the overall taste and balance the flavors, ensuring each bite is perfectly seasoned and delicious.
6. Dried Oregano: Adding a hint of earthiness and a touch of herbal freshness, dried oregano harmonizes with the other spices, creating a symphony of flavors on your palate.
7. Cayenne Pepper: For those who like a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper adds a fiery kick to the marinade, awakening your taste buds and adding a tantalizing element to the dish.
8. Worcestershire Sauce: This tangy and savory sauce brings depth to the marinade, enhancing the beef’s natural flavors and adding a delightful umami note that will leave you wanting more.
9. Red Wine Vinegar: A splash of red wine vinegar adds a bright acidity that helps tenderize the meat while imparting a subtle tang that perfectly balances the richness of the beef.
10. Olive Oil: Drizzled over the beef, olive oil not only helps to lock in moisture but also adds a luxurious richness to the dish, ensuring each bite is succulent and full of flavor.

• Wood Chips: To infuse the beef with a smoky aroma, soak wood chips in water and add them to your grill. The resulting smoke will envelop the meat, taking it to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• Salsa: A zesty and vibrant salsa made with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of jalapeño adds a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich and smoky beef.
• Grilled Vegetables: Alongside the tri-tip beef, grill an assortment of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a vibrant and nutritious side dish that perfectly complements the meat.
• Garlic Bread: No Santa Maria grilled tri-tip beef dish is complete without a side of garlic bread. Toasted to perfection and slathered with butter and garlic, it’s the ultimate accompaniment to soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Red Wine: To elevate your dining experience, pair this mouthwatering dish with a bold and robust red wine. The wine’s tannins and fruity notes will harmonize beautifully with the smoky, juicy beef.

Recipe Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef

1. Preparation time: 10 minutes
2. Cooking time: 25 minutes
3. Total time: 35 minutes

Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is a mouthwatering dish that hails from the beautiful country of Argentina. Bursting with flavors and cooked to perfection, this dish is a true delight for meat lovers. Let’s dive right into the preparation!

1. Start by preparing the marinade, which adds an irresistible tangy touch to the beef. The marinade is a secret blend of herbs and spices that perfectly complements the natural flavors of the tri-tip.
2. Next, generously coat the tri-tip with the marinade, allowing it to soak in all the deliciousness. This step is crucial to ensure that every bite is infused with flavor.
3. Once marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill! The smoky aroma that fills the air as the beef sizzles on the hot grates is simply tantalizing.
4. Cook the tri-tip to your desired level of doneness, whether you prefer it rare, medium-rare, or well-done. The key is to achieve a beautiful char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
5. As you patiently wait for the beef to cook, envision the vibrant streets of Argentina, where this dish originated. Imagine the lively atmosphere, filled with laughter and the sizzling sounds of various meats being grilled.
6. After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the tri-tip from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a succulent and flavorful piece of meat.
7. Finally, slice the tri-tip against the grain, revealing its perfectly cooked interior. The rich, smoky flavors and tender texture will transport you to the heart of Argentina, even if you’re miles away.

So, gather your loved ones and embark on a culinary journey to Argentina with Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef. With its tantalizing flavors and captivating aromas, this dish is sure to leave everyone craving for more. Enjoy the magic of Argentine cuisine right in the comfort of your own backyard!

Instructions

1. Start by preparing the grill. Make sure it is clean and preheat it to medium-high heat.
2. While the grill is heating up, take the tri-tip beef out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking.
3. Next, season the tri-tip generously with Santa Maria seasoning. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it will add incredible flavor to the beef.
4. Once the grill is hot, place the tri-tip directly over the heat. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side to create a beautiful crust.
5. After searing, move the tri-tip to a cooler part of the grill, away from direct heat. This will allow the beef to cook through without burning the outside.
6. Cover the grill and let the tri-tip cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (55-57°C).
7. While the tri-tip is cooking, resist the temptation to constantly flip or poke it. This can cause the juices to escape, resulting in a drier piece of meat.
8. Once the tri-tip has reached your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender and juicy final result.
9. After resting, slice the tri-tip against the grain into thin slices. This will help ensure a tender bite every time.
10. Serve the Santa Maria grilled tri-tip beef as the star of your meal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even in a sandwich.
11. Don’t forget to enjoy the delicious flavors and the effort you put into preparing this mouthwatering dish!

Nutrition

1. Protein: The Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish is packed with a generous amount of protein, making it a great choice for those looking to fuel their muscles. Each serving contains approximately 36 grams of protein, which is essential for repairing and building tissues.

2. Iron: This mouthwatering dish is also rich in iron, a vital mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout the body. With around 4.8 milligrams of iron per serving, it provides a healthy boost to your iron levels, promoting proper blood circulation and preventing anemia.

3. Zinc: Indulging in the Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish means treating your body to a decent dose of zinc. Zinc plays a crucial role in supporting a strong immune system and aiding in the healing of wounds. You’ll find approximately 5.5 milligrams of zinc in each serving, giving your body the necessary tools to stay healthy.

4. Vitamin B12: This flavor-packed dish is an excellent source of vitamin B12, a nutrient essential for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. With about 2.8 micrograms per serving, it provides a significant portion of your daily requirement, helping you maintain optimal health and energy levels.

5. Saturated Fat: While the Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish offers a delicious explosion of flavors, it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its saturated fat content. Each serving contains approximately 9 grams of saturated fat, so remember to balance it with other healthy food choices to maintain a well-rounded diet.

6. Sodium: This flavorful dish is seasoned to perfection, but it’s worth noting that it also contains sodium. Each serving provides around 680 milligrams of sodium. While sodium is important for various bodily functions, it’s recommended to consume it in moderation as excessive intake may have adverse health effects.

7. Calories: Indulging in the Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish means treating your taste buds while being mindful of your calorie intake. With approximately 340 calories per serving, it can be incorporated into a balanced diet when combined with nutrient-rich sides and vegetables.

8. Fiber: While the Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish doesn’t provide significant amounts of fiber on its own, you can pair it with fibrous sides and vegetables to enhance your overall fiber intake. Fiber aids digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.

Enjoy the Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef dish as part of a well-rounded diet to savor its delicious flavors while reaping the nutritional benefits it offers. Remember, moderation is key in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Ideas for serving

– Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef, a mouthwatering delight that hails from the Santa Maria Valley in California, is a culinary masterpiece that deserves to be served with flair. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience with this delectable dish:

1. Classic Santa Maria Style: Stay true to tradition by serving your tri-tip beef with a generous dollop of Santa Maria-style salsa. This tangy, tomato-based condiment, infused with garlic, onions, and a hint of heat, perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the grilled meat.

2. Herbaceous Bliss: Elevate your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef by serving it alongside a vibrant herb salad. Toss together fresh parsley, cilantro, mint, and basil leaves with a squeeze of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt. The herbaceous flavors will beautifully contrast the richness of the beef.

3. Loaded Baked Potatoes: Take your side dish game to the next level by serving loaded baked potatoes with your tri-tip beef. Simply bake russet potatoes until tender, then split them open and load them up with crispy bacon bits, grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped chives. The combination of smoky beef and creamy, flavorful potatoes is pure comfort on a plate.

4. Grilled Vegetable Medley: Add a burst of color and nutrition to your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef by serving it with a medley of grilled vegetables. Toss together zucchini, bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and your favorite herbs. Grill until tender and slightly charred for a delightful accompaniment to the succulent beef.

5. Tex-Mex Twist: Give your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef a Tex-Mex twist by serving it in warm flour tortillas with all the fixings. Offer a variety of toppings such as guacamole, salsa verde, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled queso fresco. Let your guests assemble their own mouthwatering tacos, allowing them to customize their flavors to perfection.

6. Wine Pairing: Elevate your dining experience by pairing your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef with a robust red wine. Opt for a California Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah to complement the rich flavors of the meat. The bold tannins and fruity notes of the wine will harmonize perfectly with the smoky, charred exterior of the tri-tip beef.

7. Decadent Dessert: Conclude your Santa Maria feast on a sweet note by serving a decadent dessert like a classic California-style cheesecake or a velvety chocolate lava cake. The richness of these desserts will provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the main course, leaving your guests feeling utterly satisfied.

Remember, Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef is a dish that deserves to be celebrated and savored. With these creative serving ideas, you can take your dining experience to new heights, creating lasting memories around the table. Enjoy!

Storing the dish

To properly store your delicious Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef, follow these simple steps:

1. Allow the beef to cool: After grilling your tri-tip to mouthwatering perfection, give it some time to cool down. This step is crucial to ensure the meat retains its juiciness and tenderness during storage.

2. Wrap it up: Once your tri-tip has cooled, grab some aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place the beef in the center and tightly wrap it up, making sure to cover every inch. This protective layer will keep the flavors locked in and prevent any moisture loss.

3. Use an airtight container: If you prefer an extra layer of protection, transfer the wrapped tri-tip to an airtight container. This will shield the meat from any potential odors in your fridge and further preserve its freshness. Choose a container that fits the size of the beef snugly to avoid unnecessary air exposure.

4. Label it: Don’t forget to label your container with the date of storage. This way, you can easily keep track of how long the beef has been stored and ensure you consume it within a safe timeframe.

5. Store in the refrigerator: Find a cozy spot for your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef in the refrigerator. The temperature should be set between 32°F and 40°F (0°C and 4°C) to keep the meat at its best quality. Avoid placing it near foods with strong odors to prevent any flavor transfer.

6. Consume within 3-4 days: While this mouthwatering dish may be tempting to savor for longer, it’s best to enjoy it within 3-4 days of storage. This ensures optimum taste and safety. If you’re unable to consume it within this timeframe, consider freezing it for longer shelf life (up to 4 months).

7. Reheat with care: When you’re ready to relish the flavors of your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef again, reheat it gently to maintain its tenderness. You can use an oven, grill, or stovetop. Just be sure not to overcook it, as it may lead to dryness.

Remember, proper storage is key to preserving the deliciousness of your Santa Maria Grilled Tri-Tip Beef. By following these steps, you can enjoy this delectable dish even after it has been cooked.