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BBQ Desert Dusted Tri-Tip

The ultimate BBQ tri-tip recipe seasoned with Desert Dust from JT Trading Post. Low and slow smoke, high heat finish, and a Mojave-inspired seasoning blend that makes this your new backyard staple.

BBQ Desert Dusted Tri-Tip

Recipe by: Rhiannon Cooper

Serves: 8-10

Cooktime: See below - depending on desired Temperature

Ingredients 

  • 2.5-3.5 pound piece of Tri-tip
  • Desert Dust - Any flavor (we used original)

How to BBQ Tri-Tip:

  1. Preparation:

    • Remove the tri-tip from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before adding Desert Dust.
    • Pat the tri-tip dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Seasoning:

    • Apply a generous amount of your favorite Desert Dust to all sides of the tri-tip. Make sure to massage the rub into the meat to ensure even coverage. Allow to marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour
  3. Preheat the Grill:

    • Preheat your BBQ grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-204°C). If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to create a two-zone fire.
  4. Grilling:

    • Place the seasoned tri-tip directly onto the grill grate over the heat source.
    • Grill the tri-tip for about 5-7 minutes per side to sear the outside and lock in juices.
    • Once both sides are seared, move the tri-tip to the cooler part of the grill (indirect heat) or reduce the heat to medium-low.
  5. Cooking to Desired temperature:

    • Continue cooking the tri-tip with the lid closed, flipping occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness:
      • 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare
      • 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium
      • 150-155°F (66-68°C) for medium-well
      • 160°F (71°C) and above for well-done.
    • Tri-tip is best served medium-rare to medium to maintain its tenderness and juiciness.
  6. Resting:

    • Once the tri-tip reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board.
    • Tent the tri-tip loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy end result.
  7. Slicing:

    • After resting, slice the tri-tip against the grain into thin slices using a sharp knife. This helps ensure tenderness by shortening the muscle fibers.
    • Serve the sliced tri-tip immediately as the main dish or as part of a sandwich, salad, or other dishes.
  8. Enjoy!

    • Serve your Desert Dusted tri-tip with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious flavors you've created!

Written by

Andrew Evans

JT Trading Post

Part of the crew at JT Trading Post in Joshua Tree, where we live, hike and run a shop full of 40+ local makers.