The tri-tip comes from the bottom sirloin, located just forward of the back leg on the outside belly of the cow. This small cut of beef weighs between 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 pounds and is two inches thick. In Europe this cut of beef is sometimes referred to as a “triangle steak,” because of its shape. In the past, butchers seldom marketed this obscure cut because there were only two small tri-tips per beef carcass. Typically it was ground or cubed for stews. But because it is lean and inexpensive it has recently become quite popular, especially on the West Coast. One of the most popular items at a California cookout is the beef tri-tip. Telling a Californian that grilling a beef tri-tip is not real barbecue may lead to fisticuffs. This cut packs big flavor, but it has a low fat content. For optimum taste, tri-tip is usually marinated and/or seasoned and grilled at a high temperature over direct heat. The tenderness of this cut is optimized by slicing the meat across the grain. This recipe stays true to the flavors of the West Coast.
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