kick ass tri tip rub

Made tri tip this evening for our friend Ray and Patrick. Ray is a nurse who works in helicopter trauma transport, Patrick works for a singing group. They spent the afternoon with us today, drinking wine, marinating in the jacuzzi, enjoying dinner, port and multiple games of Catchphrase. They really enjoyed the tri-tip...and I even surprised myself at how good it was!

Tri tip turned out kick ass. About 15-17 minutes on medium heat setting on the Weber, 10 minutes on 1st side, 7 minutes on 2nd side, with 10-15 minutes rest was pretty perfect medium rare. But best part was crust: the rub was beautiful this time! I think the sugar is what made this really come together, compared to my previous rubs. I'd like to share the recipe with you.

Magickal Tri Tip Rub

3 tbsp garlic powder
2 tbsp kosher salt
2 tbsp fresh ground black pepper (use spice/coffee grinder!)
2 tbsp cane sugar (or other white sugar)
1 tbsp Montreal Steak Seasoning
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tbsp mesquite smoke flavor (dry malt base)

Combine all spices in a small jar with lid. Rub tri tip with olive oil. Coat thoroughly and rub with spice blend. Let sit for at least 6 hours.

Cook tritip over medium indirect heat (about 350-425 degrees) for 15-17 minutes for medium rare.