How long to cook tri tip on charcoal grill? The answer is simple: It typically takes 20-30 minutes on indirect heat to cook tri tip on a charcoal grill, followed by a quick sear over direct heat for that perfect crust.
Tri tip, a flavorful cut from the bottom of the sirloin, is a favorite among grilling enthusiasts. With its unique triangular shape, this cut is ideal for backyard BBQs and delivers a rich beefy flavor. At Grill Wizard Oz, we know that mastering the right cook time is crucial to grilling success.
For the best results:
– Set up your grill using the two-zone method.
– Cook over indirect heat for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
– Sear over direct heat until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
– Rest the meat for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to grilling tri tip like a pro.
Understanding Tri Tip
Tri tip is a cut of beef from the bottom portion of the sirloin. It has a unique triangle shape and is known for its rich, beefy flavor. This cut is lean, meaning it has less fat compared to other beef cuts, but it still packs a punch in taste.
The Tri Tip Cut
The tri tip comes from the lower part of the sirloin, near the ball tip and the flap. It’s a relatively small cut, usually weighing 2-3 pounds when trimmed. An untrimmed tri tip can be nearly 5 pounds because of its large fat cap and skin layer.
Beef Flavor and Texture
Despite being lean, tri tip is big on flavor. The meat is tender and juicy when cooked properly. Unlike brisket, which needs a long, slow cook to break down connective tissues, tri tip can be grilled or smoked to perfection in a shorter time.
Lean Meat Benefits
Because tri tip is lean, it’s a healthier option compared to fattier cuts like ribeye. It’s perfect for those who want a flavorful beef experience without the extra fat. Plus, the lean nature of tri tip makes it ideal for quick grilling, especially when using the two-zone method.
In the next section, we’ll dive into how to prepare your tri tip for the grill.
Preparing Your Tri Tip for the Grill
Getting your tri tip ready for the grill is crucial for a delicious result. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
Trim the Fat and Silver Skin
First, trim the excess fat. Aim for about an ⅛” layer of fat. This helps prevent flare-ups and ensures even cooking.
Next, remove the silver skin. This tough, chewy membrane doesn’t break down during cooking. Use a sharp knife to cut just below the skin and work your way across the meat.
Marinate or Dry Rub
Marinating or applying a dry rub adds flavor and tenderizes the meat.
Marinate: A good marinade can make your tri tip more flavorful and juicy. For instance, a marinade combining soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, pure maple syrup, avocado oil, ground ginger, paprika, salt, and black pepper works wonders. Seal the tri tip in a large zip lock bag with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 48 hours.
Dry Rub: If you prefer a dry rub, sprinkle about two to three tablespoons of your favorite spice blend evenly on each side of the meat. This method is quicker and still delivers great flavor.
Seasoning Tips
Whether you marinate or use a dry rub, let the tri tip sit at room temperature for about an hour before grilling. This helps achieve a more even cook.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try using wood chips like hickory or mesquite when grilling. Soak the chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the coals.
Now that your tri tip is prepped, you’re ready to move on to the next step: grilling it to perfection.
How Long to Cook Tri Tip on Charcoal Grill
Two-Zone Cooking Method
The two-zone method is a must for grilling tri tip. It lets you cook the meat evenly and then sear it for that perfect crust. Here’s how to set it up:
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Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquets: Start by lighting your charcoal and arranging it on one side of the grill. This creates a hot zone for direct heat and a cooler zone for indirect heat.
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Wood Chips: Add soaked wood chips (like hickory or mesquite) to the coals for a smoky flavor. Remember to soak them for at least 30 minutes first.
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Preheat the Grill: Aim for a temperature of 250°F on the indirect side and 400-450°F on the direct side. You can check this by holding your hand 5-6 inches above the grate. If you can hold it for 8-10 seconds, you’re at low heat (250-350°F). If it’s 5-6 seconds, you’re at medium heat (350-450°F).
Slow Cooking vs. Reverse Searing
When it comes to cooking tri tip, you have two main options: slow cooking and reverse searing. Both methods have their perks, so let’s break them down.
Slow Cooking (Low and Slow)
- Indirect Heat: Place the tri tip on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and let it cook slowly.
- Cook Time: Plan for about 30-45 minutes, but always check the internal temperature.
- Internal Temperature: Use a digital meat thermometer to check. For medium-rare, aim for 125-130°F before searing.
Reverse Searing (High Heat Sear)
- Indirect to Direct Heat: Start by cooking the tri tip on the indirect side until it’s within 10 degrees of your target temperature. Then move it to the direct heat side for a quick sear.
- Cook Time: Total grilling time is around 45 minutes. Slow cook for about 30-40 minutes first, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Internal Temperature: For medium-rare, start searing when the internal temp hits 115°F. Remove from the grill at 125°F for a perfect finish.
Pro Tip: Always use a digital meat thermometer. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F for steak, but many prefer tri tip at 130-135°F for medium-rare.
With these methods, you’ll achieve that perfect balance of tender inside and a flavorful crust outside. Next, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step grilling instructions.
Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions
Preheating and Setting Up the Grill
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Preheat Your Grill: Fire up your grill using Kingsford Original Charcoal Briquets. Set up a two-zone cooking method: one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat. Aim for 250°F on the cooler side and 400-450°F on the hotter side.
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Oil the Grate: Once the grill is preheated, use a folded paper towel dipped in cooking oil. Grab it with long-handled tongs and oil the grate thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Grilling the Tri Tip
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Place the Tri Tip: Put the tri tip on the cooler side of the grill, directly over the drip pan. Close the lid.
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Grill Time: Grill for about 20-30 minutes on each side. Flip the tri tip every 6-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. Introduce wood chips for added smoke flavor if desired.
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Check Internal Temperature: Use a digital meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Aim for 115°F for rare, 125°F for medium-rare, and 135°F for medium.
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Sear Both Sides: Once the tri tip reaches your desired internal temperature, move it to the hotter side of the grill. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
Resting and Slicing
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Resting Time: Remove the tri tip from the grill and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.
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Slice Against the Grain: To serve, slice the tri tip against the grain in thin slices. This ensures maximum tenderness.
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Serving Tips: Serve the tri tip with your favorite sides. It goes well with chimichurri, grilled vegetables, or even in a sandwich.
By following these steps, you’ll master the art of grilling tri tip on a charcoal grill. Next, we’ll dive into frequently asked questions to clear up any remaining doubts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cooking Tri Tip on Charcoal Grill
How long does it take to charcoal grill tri-tip?
Grilling tri-tip on a charcoal grill typically takes 20-30 minutes. The exact time can vary based on the size of the roast and how well done you prefer your meat.
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Indirect Heat: Start by cooking the tri-tip over indirect heat. This means placing the meat on the cooler side of the grill. Flip the tri-tip every 6-7 minutes.
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Internal Temperature: Use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130 degrees F before moving to direct heat.
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Direct Heat: Once the tri-tip is within 10 degrees of your desired final temperature, move it to the direct heat side for a quick sear, about 2-3 minutes per side.
How to slow cook tri-tip on charcoal grill?
Slow cooking tri-tip on a charcoal grill gives it a tender, smoky flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
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Temperature: Maintain a grill temperature of 250 degrees F.
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Cook Time: Cook the tri-tip for 30-45 minutes over indirect heat. Flip it every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
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Internal Temperature: Aim for an internal temperature of 125-130 degrees F for medium rare. This slow cooking method allows the meat to cook evenly and absorb the smoky flavor from the charcoal.
Do you flip a tri-tip on the grill?
Yes, flipping the tri-tip on the grill is crucial for even cooking.
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Flip Every Few Minutes: While grilling over indirect heat, flip the tri-tip every 6-7 minutes. This helps cook the meat evenly and prevents any one side from burning.
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Rotate for Even Cooking: If your grill has hot spots, rotate the tri-tip as you flip it. This ensures that each side gets the same amount of heat exposure.
By following these guidelines, you’ll achieve perfectly grilled tri-tip every time. For more grilling tips and recipes, check out our Grill Wizard Oz homepage.
Next, we’ll explore the step-by-step grilling instructions to further enhance your grilling skills.
Conclusion
Grilling tri-tip on a charcoal grill can be a rewarding experience when done right. With the tips and methods we’ve shared, you can ensure that your tri-tip is cooked to perfection every time.
Grill Wizard Oz is dedicated to helping you master the art of grilling. From understanding the unique qualities of tri-tip to perfecting your grilling techniques, we provide expert tips to make your grilling sessions a success.
The key to a perfect tri-tip is in the preparation and the cooking method. Whether you’re using the two-zone method or reverse searing, always keep an eye on the internal temperature to achieve your desired doneness.
For more expert grilling tips and to explore our range of products, visit our Grill Wizard Oz service page. Happy grilling!
