Tri tip is a flavorful and tender cut of beef that is popular in many parts of the world. Slow cooking tri tip on a gas grill is an excellent way to prepare this delicious meat, as it allows the flavors to develop slowly and creates a juicy, tender texture. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to slow cook tri tip on a gas grill.

Preparing the Tri Tip

Choosing the Right Size and Quality of Tri Tip

When it comes to tri tip, size matters. You want to make sure that you choose a tri tip that is the right size for your grill and your appetite. A good rule of thumb is to choose a tri tip that is between 2-3 pounds, which should feed around four to six people.

Quality is also essential when it comes to tri tip. Look for a tri tip that is fresh and has good marbling. Marbling refers to the thin streaks of fat that run through the meat, which gives it its flavor and tenderness.

Trimming the Excess Fat

Before cooking, you need to trim the excess fat from the tri tip. Leaving too much fat on the meat can cause flare-ups on the grill and lead to uneven cooking. Use a sharp knife to trim the fat, leaving a thin layer of fat on the meat.

Seasoning the Tri Tip

Seasoning is crucial when it comes to tri tip. You want to enhance the flavor of the meat without overpowering it. There are many seasoning options available, but a simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder is an excellent place to start.

Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and rub them onto the tri tip, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Let the meat sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

Preparing the Gas Grill

Cleaning the Grill Grates

Before cooking, it’s essential to clean the grill grates thoroughly. Use a grill brush to remove any debris or residue from the grates. A clean grill will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Setting Up the Grill for Indirect Heat Cooking

Slow cooking tri tip on a gas grill requires indirect heat cooking. This means that you will be cooking the meat on one side of the grill while the other side remains off.

To set up your grill for indirect heat cooking, turn on all the burners to high for ten minutes, then turn off the burners on one side of the grill. Place an aluminum foil drip pan on the side of the grill with the burners off to catch any drippings from the meat.

Preheating the Grill to the Right Temperature

Preheating the grill is essential to ensure even cooking. You want to preheat the grill to around 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the grill to preheat for 10-15 minutes before placing the tri tip on the grill.

Now that you have prepared the tri tip and set up the grill, it’s time to start slow cooking the tri tip on the gas grill.

Slow Cooking the Tri Tip

Placing the Tri Tip on the Grill

Place the tri tip on the side of the grill with the burners off, directly above the aluminum foil drip pan. Close the grill lid and let the meat slow cook for around 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the tri tip.

Monitoring the Temperature

It’s important to monitor the temperature of the grill during the cooking process to ensure even cooking. Use a grill thermometer to check the temperature of the grill and adjust the heat if necessary. You want to maintain a temperature of around 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit.

Flipping the Tri Tip

After around 1-1.5 hours of cooking, it’s time to flip the tri tip to ensure even cooking. Use tongs to carefully turn the tri tip over and close the grill lid. Continue to cook the meat for the remaining time.

Basting the Tri Tip

To keep the tri tip moist and flavorful, it’s essential to baste it periodically during the cooking process. Use a basting brush to apply a layer of your favorite barbecue sauce or marinade to the meat. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much sauce can cause flare-ups on the grill.

Checking for Doneness

Using a Meat Thermometer

To ensure that the tri tip is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The recommended temperature for medium-rare tri tip is 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit.

Letting the Tri Tip Rest

After removing the tri tip from the grill, let it rest for around 10-15 minutes before slicing. Letting the meat rest allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, creating a juicier and more flavorful final product.

Now that you know how to slow cook tri tip on a gas grill, it’s time to get grilling. Remember to choose a good quality tri tip, season it well, and take your time slow cooking it on the grill. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be serving up delicious tri tip in no time.