Key Takeaways
- Ingredient Essentials: Use high-quality tri tip steak, olive oil, garlic, and seasonings like salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor when cooking steak strips on the stove top.
- Marination for Flavor: Marinate the tri tip strips with olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce for at least 30 minutes to improve tenderness and taste.
- Proper Cutting Technique: Slice the tri tip against the grain into 1-inch wide strips for uniform cooking and to ensure tender bites.
- Optimal Cooking Method: Cook marinated steak strips in a pre-heated pan over medium-high heat, searing each side for 3-4 minutes to achieve a nice crust and desired doneness.
- Resting for Juiciness: Allow the cooked steak strips to rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices and enhance tenderness.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fresh salads, and complement with sauces like chimichurri or BBQ for a flavorful meal.
Have you ever craved a juicy steak but didn’t want to fire up the grill? Cooking tri tip steak strips on the stove top is a quick and delicious solution. Imagine savoring tender, flavorful strips that can elevate any meal without the hassle of outdoor cooking.
Ingredients Required
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for cooking flavorful tri tip steak strips. This selection includes both essential and optional components to enhance your dish.
Essential Ingredients
- Tri Tip Steak: About 1 to 1.5 pounds, cut into strips. Choose pieces with good marbling for tenderness.
- Salt: Use 1 to 2 teaspoons. This enhances the natural flavor of the meat.
- Black Pepper: Use 1 teaspoon. Freshly cracked offers the best flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use 2 tablespoons for cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear on the steak.
- Garlic: Use 2 to 3 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a robust flavor to the strips.
- Onions: Sliced, 1 medium onion. This adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Bell Peppers: Sliced, 1 cup. Any color pepper contributes a crisp texture and color.
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon. This brings an umami flavor to the mix.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon. This adds a tangy, savory taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Such as rosemary or thyme. A few sprigs can elevate the flavor significantly.
Feel free to customize your ingredient list based on your taste preferences.
Preparation Steps
To achieve flavorful tri tip steak strips, follow these straightforward preparation steps.
Marinating the Meat
Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Start with a marinade mixture including olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and your choice of fresh herbs. Combine these ingredients in a bowl, then add the tri tip steak strips. Ensure each piece is well coated. Allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor. Refrigerate the meat during this time for optimal results.
Cutting the Tri Tip
Cutting the tri tip properly ensures uniform cooking and tender bites. First, place the tri tip against the grain on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the meat into strips about 1 inch wide. Aim for consistent thickness to promote even cooking. Once you’ve cut the entire piece, it’s ready to cook. This preparation sets the stage for delicious, juicy steak strips.
Cooking Process
Cooking tri tip steak strips on the stove top is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps to create flavorful strips that complement any meal.
Heating the Pan
Use a heavy skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel. Heat the pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. When the pan shimmers, add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Ensure the oil evenly coats the surface, which helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking.
Cooking the Steak Strips
Add the marinated steak strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Sear for 3-4 minutes without moving them. This allows a nice crust to form. Flip the strips using tongs and cook for another 3-4 minutes. If desired, toss in sliced onions or bell peppers halfway through for added flavor.
Achieving Optimal Doneness
For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. Use an instant-read thermometer to check. Remove the strips once they reach this temperature, or adjust cooking time based on preference. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy bites.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoying tri tip steak strips brings endless possibilities for serving. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a special gathering, these suggestions enhance your meal presentation and flavor.
Pairing with Sides
Complement tri tip steak strips with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair the steak with roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus for a colorful plate. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting at 425°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve creamy mashed potatoes as a rich backdrop for the steak. Incorporate garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
- Rice Pilaf: Create a flavorful rice pilaf with chopped onions, garlic, and herbs. It soaks up any meat juices, enhancing every bite.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad or Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast. Use leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing.
- Grilled Corn: Grilled corn on the cob adds sweetness and a nice crunch. Brush with butter and sprinkle with chili powder for extra zest.
Recommended Sauces
Adding sauces elevates the flavor of tri tip steak strips. Consider these delicious options:
- Chimichurri: This herby sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil complements the beef beautifully.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose a tangy or smoky BBQ sauce to add richness and a hint of sweetness. It pairs well with grilled flavors.
- Teriyaki Sauce: For an Asian twist, drizzle teriyaki sauce over the steak strips. Its sweet and savory notes enhance the meat’s taste.
- Creamy Horseradish Sauce: This zesty sauce adds a kick. Mix sour cream with horseradish and a splash of lemon juice for balance.
- Beurre Blanc: A buttery white wine sauce can add sophistication. It’s smooth and pairs well with the richness of the steak.
Conclusion
Cooking tri tip steak strips on the stove top is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of grilling. With just a few simple ingredients and steps you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.
Don’t hesitate to customize your marinade and add your favorite veggies for a personal touch. Whether you’re serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or drizzling on a tasty sauce your tri tip steak strips will be a hit.
So grab your skillet and get ready to savor every juicy bite. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are tri tip steak strips?
Tri tip steak strips are thinly sliced pieces of tri tip steak, a flavorful cut from the bottom sirloin of the cow. They are commonly cooked quickly, making them perfect for stovetop meals or stir-fries.
How do I prepare tri tip steak strips?
To prepare tri tip steak strips, marinate the meat in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce for at least 30 minutes. Slice against the grain into 1-inch wide strips to ensure tenderness before cooking.
What is the best way to cook tri tip steak strips?
The best way to cook tri tip steak strips is to heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and cook the marinated strips in a single layer for about 3-4 minutes per side until seared and cooked through.
What is the recommended doneness for tri tip steak strips?
For medium-rare tri tip steak strips, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F. This ensures the meat remains tender and juicy. Always let the steak rest for about 5 minutes after cooking before serving.
What sides pair well with tri tip steak strips?
Tri tip steak strips pair well with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, fresh salads, and grilled corn, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Can I customize the marinade for tri tip steak strips?
Yes, you can customize the marinade for tri tip steak strips based on your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with various herbs, spices, and sauces to create flavors that you enjoy.
What sauces can I serve with tri tip steak strips?
You can enhance tri tip steak strips with sauces like chimichurri, BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, creamy horseradish sauce, and beurre blanc. Each sauce adds its unique flavor, making the dish even more enjoyable.
