If you love roasts but don’t have the time to prepare one, this Instant Pot Tri-Tip recipe is for you! Tri-Tip is a lesser-known triangular cut of meat that is juicy and flavorful. Traditionally, it’s roasted or grilled, but with this recipe, you can enjoy a tender and delicious Tri-Tip even in the cold weather when grilling isn’t an option.
What is Tri-Tip?
Tri-Tip is a lean cut of beef that comes from the bottom of the sirloin. It’s known for its tenderness and low fat content. If you can’t find Tri-Tip in your local grocery store, simply ask your butcher to cut it specifically for you.
Seasoning Tri-Tip: The Possibilities Are Endless
When it comes to seasoning Tri-Tip, there are endless possibilities. Many people in the Southwest prefer a Santa Maria Dry Rub, while others opt for a basic steak rub. You can also get creative with Cajun or Chipotle Seasonings. To make it easier for you, I’ve included recipes for both the Santa Maria Dry Rub and the Basic Steak Dry Rub.
Santa Maria Dry Rub Mix Recipe
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
Directions:
- Add all the ingredients to a jar.
- Attach the lid and shake to blend.
While the Santa Maria seasoning is commonly used on Tri-Tip, you can also use a steak dry rub, especially if you prefer something less spicy.
Basic Steak Dry Rub Mix Recipe
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground pepper
Directions:
- Add all the ingredients to a jar.
- Attach the lid and shake to blend.
Don’t feel restricted by these recipes – feel free to season your Tri-Tip with your favorite spices and flavors!
How to Cook Tri-Tip in an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker
The cooking process for Tri-Tip in an Instant Pot, electric pressure cooker, multi-cooker like the Ninja Foodi, or stovetop pressure cooker is similar. There are a few key steps to keep in mind to ensure a perfect result.
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Searing the Meat: Not all electric pressure cookers have a sauté function, so if yours doesn’t, you can sear the meat in a frying pan before transferring it to the pot. However, skipping this step won’t compromise the tenderness of the Tri-Tip.
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Use the Rack: Place the rack that came with your pot at the bottom and position the Tri-Tip on it. This prevents the meat from touching the bottom directly.
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How Much Liquid Do I Add? For Instant Pots and electric pressure cookers, add 1 cup of beef broth. For stovetop pressure cookers, add 2 cups of beef broth because they release more steam.
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Quick Release Method: When the meat is done cooking, use the quick release method to release the steam. Be cautious of the hot steam and use a potholder on your hand when moving the release valve.
Instant Pot Tri-Tip Recipe
These instructions result in a medium doneness with a slight pink center. If you prefer your Tri-Tip well done, cook it for 30-35 minutes. Regardless, it will be incredibly tender.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pound Tri-Tip roast
- 3-4 tablespoons of dry rub mix
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
Directions:
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Slice the thick layer of fat off the Tri-Tip.
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Sprinkle 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons of dry rub on each side of the Tri-Tip.
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Work the rub into the meat.
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Heat the Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker to the sauté function.
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Place the Tri-Tip in the pot and brown both sides.
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Place the rack in the pot and put the browned Tri-Tip on top. Add the beef broth.
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Seal the lid and select the “high pressure cooker,” “meat,” “beef,” or “manual” function. Set the timer to 25 minutes. Once done, carefully do a quick release of the steam.
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Remove the Tri-Tip and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
You can serve your Tri-Tip with homemade gravy made from the drippings. Here’s a quick recipe to make beef gravy:
How to Make Beef Gravy from Tri-Tip Drippings
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of beef drippings
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Directions:
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Turn the Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker back to the sauté function.
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In a small bowl, combine the beef broth or water with the cornstarch until smooth.
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Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the roast drippings, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.
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Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens and becomes smooth.
Ladle the beef gravy into a gravy boat and serve it alongside the sliced Tri-Tip.
For the complete printable recipe, scroll to the bottom of this article.
Enjoy your Instant Pot Tri-Tip and the flavorful experience it brings. If you’re interested in more pressure cooker recipes, check out the ones mentioned at the end of this article.
Remember, this recipe was crafted with Ekilove in mind. For more exciting content, visit Ekilove.
