Name: Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs Tri tip steak; 1 tbsp Garlic; ¼ tsp Crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tsp Salt; ½ tsp Pepper; ½ tbsp Olive oil; 2 tsp Garlic (minced); 2 tsp Olive oil; 8 oz Sour cream; 1 cup Cilantro (loosely torn leaves); ⅛ tsp Lime zest; ½ Lime juiced; 1 pinch Salt; ⅛ tsp Chipotle powder

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Whenever I think of a special meal that feels like a culinary adventure, I can’t help but recall the times I’ve whipped up Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak for family gatherings or intimate dinners. This dish brings a touch of sophistication to any occasion while being surprisingly simple to prepare. The beauty of sous vide cooking is that it allows you to achieve perfectly tender and juicy steak, something that can be a challenge with traditional methods. I remember the first time I tried this technique; the anticipation of unsealing the bag after cooking filled the air with excitement. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was nothing short of mouthwatering. Pairing this steak with a vibrant cilantro sauce elevates the flavors even more and offers a fresh contrast. It’s a dish that’s not just about eating; it’s about the experience, the joy of cooking, and the pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
150 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
33 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Skillet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

What We Adore About This Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak

Perfectly Cooked Every Time

One of the main reasons I adore making Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak is the precision it offers. Sous vide cooking allows for consistent temperatures, ensuring that your steak is cooked to perfection without the risk of overcooking. This method lets you enjoy the steak exactly how you like it, whether you prefer it rare or well-done.

Flavor Infusion

By vacuum-sealing the steak with seasonings, all the flavors meld together beautifully during the cooking process. You’ll savor every bite, bursting with the rich tastes of garlic, salt, and the slight kick from crushed red pepper flakes. Each ingredient complements the other, enhancing the overall experience.

Time-Saving

While it may seem like sous vide cooking takes longer, it frees up your time in the kitchen. Once the steak is in the water bath, you can focus on preparing the cilantro sauce or even enjoying a glass of your favorite beverage. It’s perfect for those evenings when you have guests over; you can impress them without being glued to the stove.

Versatile Serving Options

This dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or a formal gathering, the Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak adapts beautifully. You can slice it thin and present it as an elegant entrée or serve heartily for a comforting meal at home.

Creative Culinary Exploration

Making this dish encourages creativity! You can experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade or try various finishing techniques like searing or grilling. Each time you make it, you can add your personal touch.

Showstopper Presentation

Finally, there’s something about slicing into a beautifully cooked tri tip steak that feels incredibly rewarding. It not only tastes incredible but looks stunning on the plate when drizzled with the vibrant cilantro sauce. Your guests will be impressed, and you’ll feel like a culinary star!

What to Gather for Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak

When preparing for Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak, it’s all about choosing quality ingredients that work harmoniously together. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the tri tip steak, prized for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked correctly. The accompanying ingredients enhance the steak, with garlic and spices creating a delicious crust, while the cilantro sauce brings a refreshing brightness to the dish.

3 lbs Tri tip steak – This cut of beef is known for its balance of flavor and tenderness, making it ideal for sous vide cooking.
1 tbsp Garlic – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish.
¼ tsp Crushed red pepper flakes – This adds a hint of heat that complements the savory flavors of the steak.
1 tsp Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
½ tsp Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper brings an aromatic quality.
½ tbsp Olive oil – Used for searing and enhancing the flavor.
2 tsp Garlic (minced) – Offers a stronger garlic flavor in the cilantro sauce.
8 oz Sour cream – Creates a creamy base for the sauce, balancing the spices beautifully.
1 cup Cilantro (loosely torn leaves) – Adds fresh herbal notes and brightness to the dish.
⅛ tsp Lime zest – Provides a citrusy aroma that elevates the sauce.
½ Lime (juiced) – The acidity brightens the flavors in the cilantro sauce.
1 pinch Salt – Just a touch to enhance the sauce’s flavors.
⅛ tsp Chipotle powder – Adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Step by Step Guide for Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak

Cooking Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak is a delightful experience that allows you to achieve restaurant-quality results right at home. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to create this mouthwatering dish. Follow these instructions closely, and you’ll be serving up a perfectly cooked steak in no time!

Start by preheating your sous vide bath to 130ºF. While it’s heating up, generously season the tri tip steak on both sides using garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Make sure to rub the seasonings in well to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Next, vacuum-seal the seasoned tri tip in a flat layer. This ensures even cooking. Once sealed, gently place the bag in the preheated sous vide bath and let it cook for two hours. During this time, you can prepare the cilantro sauce.
For the sauce, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds. Stir regularly until the garlic becomes translucent, but be careful not to let it turn brown, as this can alter the flavor.
Once the garlic is ready, remove the pan from heat. In a blender, combine sour cream, cilantro, the roasted garlic-infused olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend for about 10 to 20 seconds until the mixture is smooth. Chill in the fridge until it’s time to serve.
When the two hours are up, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl by combining ice and cold water. Carefully remove the tri tip from the sous vide and shock it in the ice bath for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps stop the cooking process and ensures the meat retains its juiciness.
Once chilled, take the tri tip out of the bag and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
Now, decide on your finishing method. If you prefer a sear, heat a large cast iron skillet to medium-high and add a bit of olive oil. Sear one side of the tri tip for about 30 to 60 seconds, turning regularly to develop a beautiful brown crust.
If grilling is your choice, brush the exterior of the tri tip with olive oil and preheat your grill to high heat, around 500 degrees. Once hot, place the tri tip on the grill. Grill with the cover closed, until grill marks appear. Flip and repeat for both sides, ensuring even cooking and those gorgeous criss-cross marks.
After finishing, transfer the tri tip to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent steak.
Finally, slice the tri tip against the grain into thick slices and serve it with the refreshing cilantro sauce. Enjoy this gourmet experience right in your dining room!

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing the Right Temperature: For a medium-rare finish, keep your sous vide temperature around 130ºF. Adjust the temperature slightly based on your preferred doneness.
Vacuum Sealing: Make sure to eliminate all the air when vacuum sealing. This allows for even cooking and prevents floating in the water bath.
Flavor Variations: Consider marinating your tri tip a few hours before sous vide cooking for an extra flavor boost.
Resting is Key: Always let your meat rest after cooking. This step is crucial for keeping it juicy.

Recipe Variations about Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak

There are countless ways to customize your Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak experience! Here are some fun variations to consider:

Marinade Magic: Experiment with different marinades like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an Asian twist.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the vacuum bag for added flavor during cooking.
Serving Suggestions: Try serving the steak with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cilantro Alternatives: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, parsley or basil can be great substitutes in the sauce.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spice blends in your seasoning mix to create unique flavor profiles.
Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain tenderness.
Freezing: If you have extra, consider freezing portions for later enjoyment. Just ensure they are well-sealed.

What to Serve With Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak

When it comes to serving Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak, the options are nearly endless! Here are some delightful side dishes and ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: Pair the steak with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a rich and comforting side dish.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory steak.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon juice complements the steak beautifully.
Rice Pilaf: A side of rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a hearty and satisfying addition.
Occasions: This steak is perfect for special occasions, Sunday dinners, or any time you want to impress guests.
Leftover Storage: Store any leftover steak in the fridge for up to three days and enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner option.
Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, consider serving with lighter sides like corn salad or coleslaw; in the winter, hearty root vegetables are excellent companions.

FAQ

With sous vide cooking, the timing is very precise. If you’ve set your sous vide to 130ºF, the steak will be perfectly cooked after two hours. You can always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature before serving, but trust in the sous vide process for consistent results!

Absolutely! While the tri tip steak is fantastic, you can use other cuts like flank steak or sirloin in sous vide cooking. Just keep in mind that different cuts may require different cooking times and temperatures for optimal results.

No worries! If you don’t have a vacuum sealer, you can use the water displacement method. Place your seasoned steak in a zip-top bag, submerge it slowly in water to push out the air, and seal it while keeping it submerged. This method still allows for great sous vide results!

Definitely! The cilantro sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, and you’ll have a delicious and fresh complement to your steak without any last-minute hassle.

Conclusion

The Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak not only showcases the beauty of sous vide cooking but also delivers incredible flavor and tenderness. I encourage you to try it for your next special occasion or family dinner. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to elevate your cooking game with this technique. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak

The ultimate comfort food, Sous Vide Tri Tip Steak with a zesty cilantro sauce is a mouthwatering delight! Perfectly tender and juicy, this easy weeknight dinner allows you to create restaurant-quality flavors at home. Perfect for any occasion, make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 2 30

Total Time 2 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

3 lbs Tri tip steak
1 tbsp Garlic
¼ tsp Crushed red pepper flakes
1 tsp Salt
½ tsp Pepper
½ tbsp Olive oil
2 tsp Garlic (minced)
2 tsp Olive oil
8 oz Sour cream
1 cup Cilantro (loosely torn leaves)
⅛ tsp Lime zest
½ Lime juiced
1 pinch Salt
⅛ tsp Chipotle powder

Equipment

Blender
Skillet
Frying pan
Wooden Spoon
Chef's Knife
Baking Sheet

Method

Start by preheating your sous vide bath to 130ºF. While it’s heating up, generously season the tri tip steak on both sides using garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Make sure to rub the seasonings in well to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Next, vacuum-seal the seasoned tri tip in a flat layer. This ensures even cooking. Once sealed, gently place the bag in the preheated sous vide bath and let it cook for two hours. During this time, you can prepare the cilantro sauce.
For the sauce, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds. Stir regularly until the garlic becomes translucent, but be careful not to let it turn brown, as this can alter the flavor.
Once the garlic is ready, remove the pan from heat. In a blender, combine sour cream, cilantro, the roasted garlic-infused olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend for about 10 to 20 seconds until the mixture is smooth. Chill in the fridge until it’s time to serve.
When the two hours are up, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl by combining ice and cold water. Carefully remove the tri tip from the sous vide and shock it in the ice bath for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps stop the cooking process and ensures the meat retains its juiciness.
Once chilled, take the tri tip out of the bag and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
Now, decide on your finishing method. If you prefer a sear, heat a large cast iron skillet to medium-high and add a bit of olive oil. Sear one side of the tri tip for about 30 to 60 seconds, turning regularly to develop a beautiful brown crust.
If grilling is your choice, brush the exterior of the tri tip with olive oil and preheat your grill to high heat, around 500 degrees. Once hot, place the tri tip on the grill. Grill with the cover closed, until grill marks appear. Flip and repeat for both sides, ensuring even cooking and those gorgeous criss-cross marks.
After finishing, transfer the tri tip to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent steak.
Finally, slice the tri tip against the grain into thick slices and serve it with the refreshing cilantro sauce. Enjoy this gourmet experience right in your dining room!