Description
The Best Tri Tip Marinade is a bold, savory marinade combining umami, sweetness, tanginess, and smoky notes that perfectly tenderizes tri tip steak for juicy, flavorful results. Ideal for grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, this easy-to-make marinade uses simple pantry staples and elevates your BBQ game by infusing every bite with rich, unforgettable flavor.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Gather and Prep Ingredients: Measure all the marinade ingredients. Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves to release their full flavor. Prepare any fresh herbs or spices if using variations.
- Combine the Marinade: In a medium bowl or resealable bag, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder until smooth and well blended.
- Marinate the Tri Tip: Place the tri tip steak in the bowl or bag with the marinade, ensuring it is completely coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to deeply penetrate flavors and tenderize the beef.
- Preheat and Cook: Remove the tri tip from the marinade and allow excess to drip off. Cook over medium-high heat on a grill or cast-iron pan for about 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time according to steak thickness.
- Rest and Slice: Let the cooked tri tip rest for 10 minutes to redistribute juices. Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for robust flavor rather than powdered or pre-minced.
- Marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight for best tenderness and flavor infusion.
- Pat the steak dry before cooking to achieve a better sear and crust.
- Always rest the steak after cooking to maintain juicy slices.
- Slice against the grain to ensure tender bites and easy chewing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 6 oz cooked steak)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg