Get ready for the most flavorful barbecue season ever with this versatile Tri-Tip Seasoning that you can use on any meat.
Flavorful meat begins with the perfect rub, and this tri-tip seasoning mix is precisely what you want when grilling or smoking this sublime cut of beef. You get the ideal blend of sweetness from the brown sugar, savory flavors from the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, and a hint of spiciness from the chili powder and cayenne pepper. What more could you want?
Summertime is grill time, and backyard cooks fire them up to create masterful meals. Whether turning on the gas, lighting the charcoal, or getting the smoker going, you want to have the ideal food ready to go. That’s why I recommend making a large batch of this seasoning blend, so it’s always ready when you need it, even if mealtime is a last-minute decision.
You can easily customize this seasoning mix to your liking. For example, I typically switch brown sugar to coconut sugar, or, if I have it on hand, maple sugar. I try to stay away from regular sugars, as I prefer Paleo sweeteners. You can omit the sugar entirely from the spice blend, as I sometimes do. That way, if I’m making something that would benefit from a sticky glaze, like chicken or salmon, I can mix the seasoning with some maple syrup, date syrup, agave, or honey. Trust me on this; I’ve been doing it for decades with chicken wings.
Feel free to use any chili powder, but I find making it myself is not only easy, but it also creates the freshest flavor. Store-bought versions may sometimes contain anti-caking agents or other additives. Making it at home eliminates that worry. Ancho Chile Powder is one of my favorites, and it stays fresh for months. I also like to use smoked paprika, as it imparts an incredible smoky flavor into food.
Delicious ways to use tri-tip seasoning
Tri-tip seasoning is not just for steak, although it can be used on any cut of beef, from sirloin to filet mignon. But don’t stop there. Take a burger to the next level by sprinkling it with the seasoning. You won’t believe how good it is! And speaking of good, wait until you try it on brisket. It’s otherworldly!
When using this seasoning, start with a dry surface. That means patting your meat dry with a paper towel. No oil is needed, just a few hefty tablespoons of this mix. If you use it on burgers, sprinkle some on top. However, if you are making steak or brisket, you can either coat the meat in the seasoning and cook it right away or let the flavors meld for two to 24 hours by placing the spice blend and the meat in a zippered bag or other airtight container. I’m all about marinating to infuse maximum flavor into the meat.
How do I store leftovers?
I like to keep empty glass spice jars on hand to use for my blends. When I’m making a large batch, I opt for mason jars. I prefer glass jars to plastic for storing my seasonings. Tri-tip seasoning will stay fresh in the pantry for up to 6 months. Avoid storing herbs and spices near bright light or heat, regardless of how tempting it may be to keep them close to your stove or oven. Heat and light will degrade them quicker.
Serving suggestions
If you have a smoker, use this tri-tip seasoning on Smoked Pork Tenderloin and enjoy it with Smoked Cabbage, Smoked Corn On The Cob, and Ranch Potato Salad. If you’re grilling, skip the marinade and use this rub instead for Grilled London Broil. Serve it with Grilled Romaine Salad, Grilled Potatoes, and this Ranch-Style Beans Recipe. Before you turn off the grill, make this Grilled Peaches Recipe to enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
- 4 1/2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 1/2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 1/8 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir until well mixed.
- Place the mixture in an airtight container. Seal it and keep it in a cool, dry area for up to 6 months.
- For the best flavor, pat the tri-tip dry before applying a generous amount of this rub on all sides, then grill, smoke, or roast it as desired.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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