Best Slow Cooker Tri Tip Recipe
When it comes to making a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort, nothing beats a slow cooker. Among the many delicious dishes you can prepare, tri-tip stands out for its rich taste and tenderness. In this article, we’ll explore the best slow cooker tri tip recipe that promises to be a staple in your dinner rotation. If you’re hunting for a recipe that’s not just easy but also guaranteed to impress, read on!
Why Choose Tri Tip?
Tri-tip is a cut of beef from the bottom sirloin that comes with a unique flavor profile and tenderness that’s unmatched. This flavorful cut is perfect for slow cooking because the longer it cooks, the more tender and juicy it becomes. Additionally, using a slow cooker allows the meat to absorb all the delicious flavors of seasonings and marinades, resulting in a mouth-watering dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the best slow cooker tri tip recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of tri-tip roast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
- Sliced onions and peppers for added flavor
- Carrots and potatoes for a complete meal
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare the Meat: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the tri-tip roast. This helps in achieving a better texture. Once trimmed, season the meat generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure the spices cover the meat evenly.
-
Sear the Tri Tip: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, sear the tri-tip on each side for about 4-5 minutes until it has a lovely golden brown crust. While this step is optional, it significantly enhances the flavor of your slow cooker dish.
-
Prepare the Slow Cooker: While the tri tip is searing, take your slow cooker and pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, combining them well.
-
Add the Tri Tip: Once seared, place the tri-tip in the slow cooker, allowing it to bask in the savory liquid. If you’re adding vegetables like sliced onions, peppers, carrots, or potatoes, arrange them around the meat.
-
Cooking Time: Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The goal is to let the meat become incredibly tender and flavorful, so the low-and-slow method is ideal.
-
Finishing Touches: After the cooking time is complete, check the internal temperature of the meat; it should reach 145°F for medium rare. Remove the tri-tip from the slow cooker, let it rest for about 10 minutes, and then slice against the grain.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your tri-tip slices drizzled with some of the savory sauce from the slow cooker. Garnish with fresh herbs to elevate the presentation and flavor. This dish goes exceptionally well with mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad.
Tips for the Perfect Tri Tip
- Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, consider marinating your tri-tip overnight in a mix of the soy sauce, beef broth, and spices.
- Slicing: Always slice your tri-tip against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and easy to chew.
- Leftovers: If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they make amazing sandwiches or can be added to salads for a protein boost.
Conclusion
Now that you have the best slow cooker tri tip recipe, you can make a delicious meal with ease! The rich flavors and tender meat will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering, this dish will become a favorite in your household. Grab your slow cooker, and let the magic happen – your taste buds will thank you!