Beef Tri-Tip Roast

Beef tri-tip roast is a flavorful, triangular cut from the bottom sirloin, typically seasoned with a simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic, then roasted or grilled to medium-rare. It's a signature dish of California's Central Coast, particularly Santa Maria, where it's traditionally cooked over red oak wood for a distinct smoky flavor.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This cut is high in protein and relatively lean for beef, providing a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins. A typical 3-ounce serving contains roughly 180-220 calories, with most energy coming from protein and a moderate amount of fat.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	320 kcal
Protein	42 g
Carbs	0 g
Fat	16 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	90 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Zinc	8.0 mg
Niacin (B3)	12 mg
Vitamin B6	0.6 mg
Vitamin B12	2.5 mcg
Phosphorus	300 mg
Selenium	40 mcg
Potassium	500 mg

Per 1 serving (170 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The tri-tip is unique because it was largely a local secret until the 1950s, often ground into hamburger meat before its culinary potential was recognized. Its distinctive triangular shape and the Santa Maria-style preparation have made it a celebrated part of California's barbecue heritage.