A Tri-tip Sandwich is what you need for those moments when an ordinary lunch just won’t cut it. After a long morning at work, nothing beats this California classic, piled high with juicy slices of seasoned beef.
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Tri-tip Sandwich recipe
A tri-tip sandwich is a savory dish that features thinly sliced tri-tip beef, which is a flavorful cut from the bottom of the sirloin. The name “tri-tip” comes from its triangular shape. This cut is particularly popular in Santa Maria-style barbecue, where it is often grilled over an open flame.
Tri-tip sandwiches have gained popularity due to their rich flavor and versatility, making them a staple in barbecue restaurants and casual dining settings across the United States.
This sandwich brings me back to my first road trip along California’s central coast. I remember the smoke-filled air, the sound of meat sizzling on the grill, and the first perfect bite.
This is how to make the tri-tip sandwich:
Tri-tip Sandwich
Ingredients
For the tri-tip
- 1.5 lbs tri-tip roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for added spice
For the sandwich
- 4 sandwich rolls ciabatta, hoagie, or your choice
- 1 cup arugula or spinach
- 1 medium red onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup sliced tomatoes
- 1 cup barbecue sauce homemade or store-bought
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub this spice mixture all over the tri-tip roast.
- Place the tri-tip on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the tri-tip thinly against the grain. Toast the sandwich rolls if desired. Layer the sliced tri-tip on each roll, add a generous drizzle of barbecue sauce, top with arugula, red onion, and tomatoes.
- Serve the sandwiches warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Pairing suggestions
1. Side Dishes
- Hot options:
- Grilled Vegetables: Flavorful grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- Baked beans
- Hand-cut fries
- Cold options:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that balances beef’s richness.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy air-fried or baked wedges that satisfy.
- Garden Salad: A refreshing vegetable mix with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Cheesy Brussels Sprouts: Creamy and savory, they complement the meat well.
- Grape Salad: A light, sweet salad that contrasts with savory tri-tip.
- Celery Salad: A crisp, fresh option for a lighter side.
2. Drinks
- Beer: A cold lager or pale ale
- Red Wine: Medium-bodied reds like Merlot or Zinfandel
- Iced Tea:
- Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade provides a refreshing contrast to savory flavors.
3. Sauces and Condiments
- BBQ Sauce: Adds smoky sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the tri-tip.
- Horseradish Sauce: Delivers a spicy kick that pairs well with beef.
- Aioli: Variants like garlic or chipotle aioli add creaminess and depth to the dish.
- Mustard: Whole-grain or spicy mustard offers an extra layer of flavor.
Variations
1. Santa Maria Style
- Oak wood smoke
- Simple dry rub (salt, black pepper, garlic)
- Fresh crusty, French roll
- Pico de gallo
- Santa Maria salsa
2. Caramelized Onion Version adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the flavor. Typically paired with pepper jack cheese, this combination results in a rich and satisfying meal. For an extra burst of flavor, garlic butter is brushed on the bread before toasting.
3. BBQ Tri-Tip Sandwich is for lovers of smoky and tangy flavors.
- Barbecue sauce provides a delightful sweet and savory kick.
- Topped with coleslaw
4. Pesto Variation creates a delightful contrast of flavors with pesto on toasted ciabatta or hoagie rolls
5. Reverse Seared Sandwich
Using the reverse sear technique, this sandwich begins with smoking the tri-tip before searing it for a crispy exterior. This creates a juicy and flavorful sandwich, often topped with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
6. Gourmet Tri-Tip Sandwich has unique toppings:
- Pickled mustard seeds
- Chimichurri sauce
- Specialty cheeses such as blue cheese or gouda.
7. Open-Faced Style: This variation presents the tri-tip on a single slice of bread rather than as a full sandwich. It’s topped with gravy or a rich sauce and garnished with vegetables.
8. Sliders: Perfect for parties or gatherings, sliders are mini versions of tri-tip sandwiches. These small delights can be customized with various toppings, such as cheese, onions, and sauces.
