Description
A classic Central California tri-tip roast seasoned with Santa Maria-style dry rub, slow-roasted over red oak for that distinctive smoky flavor, then sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness. Served traditionally with pinquito beans and salsa.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2.5–3 lb beef tri-tip roast
- 2 tbsp coarse kosher salt
- 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cups red oak wood chips (for smoking)
- 1 cup Santa Maria-style salsa (for serving)
- 4 cups cooked pinquito beans (traditional accompaniment)
- French bread or garlic toast (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the rub: Combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, oregano, and cayenne in a bowl.
- Season the meat: Pat tri-tip dry with paper towels. Coat evenly with oil, then apply rub on all surfaces. Let sit at room temperature 1 hour.
- Prepare grill: Set up grill for indirect heat (350°F). Add soaked red oak wood chips to coals or smoker box.
- Roast: Place tri-tip fat-side up on grill away from direct heat. Cover and cook 45-60 minutes until internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
- Sear: Move meat directly over coals for 2-3 minutes per side to develop crust.
- Rest: Transfer to cutting board, tent with foil, and rest 15 minutes.
- Slice: Cut across the grain into thin slices. Serve with pinquito beans, salsa, and bread.
Notes
- Authentic Santa Maria BBQ uses red oak for smoking
- Tri-tip has two grain directions – adjust slicing angle accordingly
- For oven method: Roast at 325°F on a rack, finish under broiler
- Leftovers make excellent steak sandwiches
- Traditional sides include green salad and strawberry shortcake
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grill/Smoke
- Cuisine: Central California
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz cooked beef
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg