Tri tip

[drewpatton]

I came into possession about four tri tip in the two to three pound range. I've done some bumping around looking for a great recipe and thought why not ask the experts! What do you guys like to do with tri tip? I will be smoking for about 8 -10 people (5 kids) and welcome all the wisdom from your successes and failures, so that I can hopefully pull another weekend off looking like I have a clue!
Thanks,
Drew

[Rich_91360]

Have only ever grilled, 15 - 20 minutes total time.  WIll be interested in your results. Allow yourself plenty of time and FTC if necessary - do not want to keep kids waiting - have low threshold for delays

[Caneyscud]

The California guys usually grill it on this medieval type adjustable contraption (I want one!).  They are generally tender cuts - so do not "need" low and slow.  But I did, and it comes out well.  225 until 130 to 145 IT, depending on how well done or rare you want it.    Should not take long 2 or 3 hours maybe - I don't remember and can't find my post.  

The California guys usually do it pretty simple - something like this for a "rub"

6 tablespoons salt
4 tablespoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons white pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder

or just salt, pepper, garlic powder or garlic salt

I believe that most of the time they cook it over oak.  

I'm going to grill it next time. 

[drewpatton]

Yeah, all I have ever done with it was grill it or sear in a castiron skillet then into an oven till desired IT. Maybe I'll just hit it with some salt, pepper, whatever else come to mind and give it a smoke till it reaches 120IT then blast it in a 500 deg oven till it's med rare.

[squirtthecat]

I did one on my Traeger...   Let me find the times/temps.   It was low and slow....  Right up Bradley's alley!

Turned out great...

[oakrdrzfan]

I marinate mine in a soy/beer/spice marinade and then grill until 130.  Awesome eats!  They used to be $1.99/#, but now that they are trendy they go for 5 bucks per pound. 

[squirtthecat]

This is how I did it on my pellet grill - adapted to the OBS.

Set Bradley temperature to 180-200*, rub trip-tip with your favorite rub and apply 3+ hours of smoke.   Let it go at until you reach an IT of 140*.   Rest 10-15 minutes, then slice and enjoy.

[BigJohnT]

I rub them down with olive oil, garlic powder and Strawberries Steak Seasoning and let that marinate overnight wrapped in foil.
I cook them in the BE fat side up till the center is rare. The foil over on the counter for 15-30 minutes. Carve and eat. There will be cuts for everyone from medium rare in the center to well done by the small end.

JT

[drewpatton]

So.....My tri-tip was outstanding! I sprinkled it with salt, pepper, garlic powder and dried thyme. I gave it 2 hours of hickory and cherry till it reached 120 IT. I let it rest for a bit while I cranked my oven up to 450 and finished it till it was 140 IT. It was perfect. Had a fresh salad, sautéed asparagus and potato salad for sides. Thanks for all your suggestions! I will definitely be making this over and over again.
Drew

[Gizmo]

Smoked Tri-Tip is one of my favorites.  I use a Santa Barbara style seasoning, smoke for 2 hours with oak and then toss on the grill or oven till 135 internal.