Beef Tri-Tip: Preferably 2-3 poundswith a nice fat cap.
Soy Sauce: Acts as the base of the marinade.
Brown Sugar: For a hint of sweetness.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: For robust flavor.
Black Pepper and Paprika: For a spicy kick.
Red Wine Vinegar: To tenderize the meat.
Olive Oil: To bind the marinade together.
Instructions
Marinade Magic
Creating the perfect marinade is crucial. Start by mixing soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, red wine vinegar, and olive oil in a bowl.
The key is to balance the savory, sweet, and tangy flavors to complement the beef tri-tip. Marinate the beef for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors seep in deeply.
Grilling To Perfection
Grilling is an art; for Cardiff Crack, it’s the heart of the dish. Preheat your grill to a high temperature and place your marinated tri-tip on it.
The secret to a perfect grill is in managing the heat. Sear the meat on high heat for a few minutes on each side, then reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until the desired level of doneness is achieved.
For a juicy and tender outcome, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness.
Resting And Serving
Once grilled, let the meat rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful. Slice the tri-tip against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Serve the Cardiff Crack with sides that complement its rich flavor. A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple garlic bread can turn this dish into a feast.