Spicy Citrus Tri-Tip Steak

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're on the hunt for a steak recipe with a bit of a twist, our Spicy Citrus Tri-Tip Steak is calling your name. This dish combines a rich, smoky flavor with a zesty citrus punch, making it perfect for anyone looking to spice up their grilling game. Plus, it's a breeze to prepare!

Ingredients for Spicy Citrus Tri-Tip Steak

The star of the show is the tri-tip steak, a cut known for its tenderness and beefy flavor, making it ideal for grilling. The olive oil helps the spices adhere to the meat and adds a touch of richness. To enhance the natural flavors, we use a bit of salt and black pepper for seasoning. Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper give the steak its smoky and spicy kick, while garlic powder adds depth and warmth. The fresh lime juice and orange zest brighten things up with their citrusy notes, and a hint of honey offers a subtle sweetness that balances out all the flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • Let the steak marinate for at least an hour if you can, to enhance the flavors even more.
  • Using a meat thermometer can help achieve the perfect doneness; aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
  • Don't skip resting the steak after grilling; it makes a big difference in juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Citrus Tri-Tip Steak pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or grilled vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto. A glass of chilled white wine or a light, citrusy beer would complement the flavors nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While tri-tip is recommended, cuts like flank steak or sirloin can work well too.
Is there a substitute for smoked paprika?
If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika with a pinch of cumin can provide a similar flavor.
What if I don't have a grill?
No worries! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the steak in the oven.

Spicy Citrus Tri-Tip Steak Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure you get a good sear on the steak, locking in all those delicious juices. While the grill is heating, grab a small bowl and mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, lime juice, orange zest, and honey until they're well blended. This will be your marinade.

Now, take your tri-tip steak and rub this spicy citrus mixture generously all over, making sure to cover every inch. This step is crucial for getting that robust flavor profile. Once your steak is well-coated, it's ready for the grill.

Place the tri-tip steak on the grill and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes on each side. Your cooking time will depend on how you like your steak — a meat thermometer can be handy here to check for doneness.

Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender, flavorful bite. Finally, slice the steak against the grain for the best texture, and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A delightful balance of spicy and tangy flavors that will dance on your taste buds.
  • Simple yet impressive — perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
  • The marinade not only flavors the steak beautifully but also helps tenderize it.

Ingredients

2 lbs tri-tip steak
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp smoked paprika
2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp honey

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, lime juice, orange zest, and honey until well combined.
3. Rub the spice and citrus mixture generously over the tri-tip steak, ensuring an even coating.
4. Place the tri-tip steak on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred level of doneness.
5. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

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