Tri-Tip Marinade

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly marinated tri-tip steak. This cut of beef is known for its rich flavor and tenderness, making it a favorite for grilling enthusiasts and home cooks alike. With the right marinade, you can elevate your tri-tip to new heights, infusing it with layers of flavor that will impress your family and friends. Today, we’re diving into a delicious tri-tip marinade that combines savory, tangy, and sweet elements for a well-rounded taste experience.

Why This Tri-Tip Marinade Stands Out

What sets this tri-tip marinade apart from others is its balance of flavors. The low-sodium soy sauce provides a savory base without overwhelming the meat with salt. Fresh lemon juice adds a bright acidity that tenderizes the beef, while olive oil ensures the marinade clings beautifully to the surface. The inclusion of Worcestershire sauce deepens the umami notes, and the blend of spices—including garlic, Italian seasoning, and dried rosemary—creates a complexity that will make your taste buds sing. Finally, a hint of brown sugar balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness, resulting in a marinade that truly enhances the natural flavors of the tri-tip.

Shopping List

• 5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 2-3 pound tri-tip steak

Appliances & Accessories

• Mixing Bowl: For combining your marinade ingredients.
• Whisk or Fork: To ensure all ingredients are well blended.
• Storage Bag or Container: For marinating the tri-tip; a resealable bag works best.
• Grill or Oven: To cook your marinated tri-tip to perfection.

Tri-Tip Marinade, Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine 5 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of olive oil. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 2: Add the Flavorings

To the mixture, add 4 1/2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 1/2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 3/4 teaspoon of onion powder, and 2 1/2 teaspoons of brown sugar. Whisk again until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Marinate the Tri-Tip

Place your 2-3 pound tri-tip steak into a resealable storage bag or a shallow container. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the container.

Step 4: Let it Marinate

Refrigerate the marinating tri-tip for at least 2 hours, but ideally, let it sit overnight. This allows all the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.

Step 5: Cook the Tri-Tip

Preheat your grill or oven. Remove the tri-tip from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill or roast according to your preferred method until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Smart Substitutions

• For a gluten-free option, substitute low-sodium soy sauce with tamari.
• Use fresh herbs instead of dried rosemary for a more vibrant flavor.
• Swap out olive oil for avocado oil if preferred.
• If you want a sweeter profile, use honey instead of brown sugar.

What Not to Do

• Do not skip the marinating time; it’s crucial for flavor absorption.
• Avoid using regular soy sauce as it can make the marinade overly salty.
• Do not cook the tri-tip without letting it rest after cooking; this will help retain juices.
• Refrain from using dried garlic instead of fresh; the flavor will not be the same.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Leftover marinated tri-tip can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, avoid using a microwave if possible to preserve the texture. Instead, reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

Reader Q&A

Can I use this marinade for other cuts of meat?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with other cuts like flank steak, chicken, or pork. Adjust the marinating time depending on the thickness of the meat.

How long should I marinate the tri-tip?

For the best results, marinate the tri-tip for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal to maximize flavor.

Can I freeze the marinated tri-tip?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated tri-tip for up to 3 months. Just place the steak and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, and when ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What’s the best way to cook tri-tip?

Grilling is a popular method for cooking tri-tip, but you can also roast it in the oven or use a sous vide method for perfectly cooked meat. Just be sure to let it rest before slicing!

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Lemon Garlic Chicken
• Herb-Marinated Grilled Vegetables
• Rosemary Garlic Lamb Chops
• Easy Grilled Salmon

Save & Share

If you loved this tri-tip marinade recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! They’ll thank you when they taste the incredible flavors you create. Happy cooking!

Enjoy the process of marinating and grilling your tri-tip steak with this easy and flavorful marinade. It’s a simple way to impress at your next barbecue or family dinner!