How To Smoke Tri Tip Like Brisket

Smoking Tri Tip Like a Pro

Smoking tri tip is a delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. While tri tip is often grilled, smoking it like a brisket can result in tender, juicy, and flavorful meat that will have your friends and family begging for more. If you’re new to smoking meat or just looking to up your tri tip game, here’s a guide to help you smoke tri tip like a pro.

Choosing the Right Tri Tip

When it comes to smoking tri tip, selecting the right cut of meat is crucial. Look for a well-marbled tri tip with a good amount of fat. This fat will render as the tri tip smokes, keeping the meat moist and adding flavor. Aim for a tri tip that is around 2-3 pounds, as this size is ideal for smoking.

Preparing the Tri Tip

Before you start smoking, it’s important to prepare the tri tip properly. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the surface of the meat, leaving about a 1/4-inch layer to enhance flavor and juiciness. Next, apply a generous amount of your favorite dry rub to the tri tip, ensuring that it is evenly coated on all sides. Let the tri tip sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Setting Up the Smoker

Prepare your smoker for cooking at a low temperature, ideally around 225-250°F (107-121°C). Use hardwood chips or chunks, such as hickory or oak, to impart a rich, smoky flavor to the tri tip. Once the smoker is at the desired temperature and the wood is producing a steady stream of smoke, it’s time to start cooking.

Smoking the Tri Tip

Place the seasoned tri tip directly on the smoker grate and close the lid. Let the tri tip smoke for approximately 60-90 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare doneness. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, ensuring that the tri tip cooks to perfection.

Resting and Slicing

Once the tri tip has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender end product. After resting, slice the tri tip against the grain into thin strips, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

Smoking tri tip like brisket yields a tender, juicy, and flavorful result that is sure to impress. Whether you serve it as a main course, in sandwiches, or as part of a barbecue feast, your smoked tri tip is bound to be a hit. With a little time and patience, you can master the art of smoking tri tip and elevate your grilling game to new heights.

So, fire up the smoker, grab a tri tip, and get ready to savor the delicious rewards of smoking this delectable cut of meat.