A pork tri tip is a specific cut of pork that comes from the bottom sirloin. It is a small, triangular shaped muscle that sits near the hind leg of the pig. Pork tri tip is sometimes referred to as a “triangle tip roast” or “pork sirloin tip roast.”
Where does pork tri tip come from on the pig?
The pork tri tip comes from the bottom sirloin section of the pig. This is the area towards the rear of the pig, right above the hind legs. More specifically, the tri tip is cut from the tensor fasciae latae or TFL muscle.
The TFL muscle runs along the outside of the hip and is responsible for stabilizing the hip joint and enabling the leg to move outward away from the body. When the pig is butchered, this small triangular muscle is removed as an individual cut of meat.
What does pork tri tip look like?
Pork tri tip is a small, tapered triangular shaped cut of meat. It typically weighs around 1-2 pounds. The tapered shape resembles a triangle, which is how it got its name “tri tip.”
The exterior fat cap left on the roast is usually thin and white. When sliced, the interior of the pork tri tip reveals the grain of the meat which runs lengthwise through the cut. The pork is typically pinkish-red in color when raw.
How is pork tri tip different from other pork roasts?
There are a few key differences between pork tri tip and other popular pork roasts:
- Size – Pork tri tip is much smaller and thinner than typical pork loin roasts or shoulder roasts.
- Shape – The unique triangular tapered shape distinguishes it from other oval or round roasts.
- Muscle – Pork tri tip comes from the tensor fasciae latae while most roasts come from the loin or shoulder.
- Marbling – Tri tip has less interior fat marbling compared to fattier cuts like shoulder.
So in summary, the pork tri tip is a petite, triangular roast that comes from a specific hip muscle. This makes it different than your average pork roast.
Is pork tri tip a tender cut of meat?
Pork tri tip is considered to be a moderately tender cut of pork. Here is how it compares in tenderness:
- More tender than – Shoulder, leg, ribs
- Less tender than – Loin, tenderloin
The tri tip comes from a muscle that gets a moderate amount of use, so it develops a bit more connective tissue compared to very tender cuts like the loin. But it still tends to be more tender than heavily exercised areas like the shoulder or leg.
Proper cooking is important for pork tri tip to reach its peak tenderness. Slow moist cooking methods like braising or roasting work well to break down the connective tissue.
How should you cook pork tri tip?
Pork tri tip can be prepared using a variety of moist cooking methods:
Roasting
Roasting uses dry oven heat to slowly cook the meat. Pork tri tip only needs to roast for 1-2 hours since it is a small cut. Use a roast rack in a shallow pan and roast at 350°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Let rest before slicing against the grain.
Braising
Braising involves browning the meat first, then slowly cooking in a small amount of liquid. The pork tri tip only needs to braise for about an hour. Make sure to thinly slice across the grain after cooking.
Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker is an easy hands-off way to cook pork tri tip. Place it in the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours with some broth and vegetables. Shred or slice the pork once fully cooked.
Grilling
You can also grill pork tri tip by searing it first over high direct heat, then finishing over more gentle indirect heat until it reaches the proper internal temp. Allow it to rest before slicing and serving.
What ingredients go well with pork tri tip?
There are many delicious ways to flavor and complement pork tri tip:
- Rub with spices and herbs like garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, pepper, chili powder, paprika, etc.
- Coat with mustard, bbq sauce, teriyaki, or other glazes.
- Braise or roast with apple cider, chicken or beef broth, wine, or fruit juices.
- Add vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, mushrooms, potatoes.
- Serve with pan sauces made from the drippings.
Pork pairs particularly well with sweet flavors like apples, oranges, peaches, plums, honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, etc. Herbaceous or spicy seasonings also work well to offset the richness of the pork.
What are the best side dishes for pork tri tip?
Here are some excellent side dish ideas to serve with juicy, flavorful pork tri tip:
- Rice Pilaf – White or brown rice pilaf with herbs and spices.
- Potatoes – Mashed, roasted, scalloped or baked potatoes.
- Vegetables – Sauteed green beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, etc.
- Salad Greens – Mixed green, spinach, kale, or arugula salad.
- Bread – Dinner rolls, biscuits, corn bread, etc.
- Pasta Salad – Macaroni, potato, or pasta salad with vinaigrette.
The right sides can complement the pork tri tip roast perfectly in taste, texture, and color. Aim for a balance of starchy, vegetable, and fresh salad type sides.
How long does pork tri tip last in the fridge or freezer?
Here is how long pork tri tip will last stored in the refrigerator or freezer:
Refrigerator:
- Raw tri tip – 3 to 5 days
- Cooked tri tip – 3 to 4 days
Freezer:
- Raw tri tip – 4 to 6 months
- Cooked tri tip – 2 to 3 months
To maximize freshness and shelf life, store pork tri tip wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags. Raw meat should always be kept on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping.
How much does pork tri tip cost?
On average, pork tri tip costs between $7 to $10 per pound at retail. However, pricing can vary depending on the source and quality.
Here are some of the factors that affect the cost of pork tri tip:
- Where it is purchased – Direct from a butcher, grocery store, warehouse store, etc.
- Quality grade – Higher grades like Berkshire pork can cost more.
- Organic or heritage breed pork – Will have a higher price tag.
- Supply and demand – Less common cuts like tri tip are sometimes pricier.
- Butcher expertise – A butcher skilled at fabricating pork may charge more.
For budget-friendly options, check warehouse stores or buy in bulk directly from a butcher when tri tip is on sale. Or substitute tri tip for a more economical pork shoulder roast.
Nutrition Facts for Pork Tri Tip
Here is the nutrition information for a 3 ounce serving of pork tri tip according to the USDA:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 122 |
| Fat | 3.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2g |
| Protein | 23.1g |
| Cholesterol | 86mg |
| Sodium | 48mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
As you can see, pork tri tip is high in protein and relatively low in fat and sodium compared to other cuts of pork. It contains a good range of B vitamins, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium as well. Overall, it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
Is pork tri tip the same as a tri tip steak?
Pork tri tip and beef tri tip are two distinct cuts of meat:
- Pork tri tip – Comes from the bottom sirloin of the pig.
- Tri tip steak – Comes from the bottom sirloin of a steer or heifer.
So while their names are similar and they come from roughly the same area of the animal, pork tri tip and tri tip steak are different cuts from different species. The pork tri tip is triangular while the beef tri tip steak is more of a kite shape.
Pork tri tip has a milder taste and tender texture compared to beef tri tip which has a very bold, beefy flavor and firm grain. Their recommended cooking methods differ as well – pork tri tip does best with braising while beef tri tip is great for grilling or broiling.
Substitutes for Pork Tri Tip
If you can’t find pork tri tip, there are a few suitable substitutions:
- Pork tenderloin – The most similar substitute in flavor, texture and shape.
- Pork shoulder roast – More affordable, but requires longer cooking.
- Pork loin roast – Slightly larger cut but still lean and tender.
- Beef tri tip steak – Different meat but similar triangular shape.
The pork tenderloin is the ideal replacement. But cheaper cuts like shoulder or loin can also substitute well – just adjust cook times accordingly. In a pinch, beef tri tip steak can sub in for the pork version.
4 Great Pork Tri Tip Recipe Ideas
Here are 4 delicious recipes that are perfect for preparing pork tri tip:
1. Apple Cider Braised Pork Tri Tip
– Brown the pork tri tip then braise slowly in apple cider, onions, garlic, and herbs until tender.
2. Jerk Spiced Pork Tri Tip
– Rub a Caribbean jerk spice mix on the pork before roasting or grilling.
3. Hoisin Glazed Pork Tri Tip
– Roast the tri tip coated in a sweet and savory hoisin glaze.
4. Pork Tri Tip Fajitas
– Slice and sauté the cooked pork with bell peppers and onion. Serve with tortillas.
Conclusion
Pork tri tip is a small, flavorful cut worthy of a place in the spotlight. Carefully sourced and prepared, this triangular treasure can be a delicious addition to well-rounded meal. With a bit of seasoning and the right cooking method, the pork tri tip’s tenderness and versatility will shine through. So next time you visit the butcher counter or flip through your favorite cookbook, keep an eye out for this unsung hero – the pork tri tip!