Santa Maria Tri Tip is one of California's most famous BBQ recipes, believed to have been invented by a butcher during the 1950s. Although regional Santa Maria tritip recipes may differ slightly from neighborhood to neighborhood, the residents of Santa Maria have embraced the dish as their signature feast, often serving it with a large pot of pink pinquito beans.
Mix together rub ingredients. Pack well on both sides of the tri tip. You can coat it with olive oil first if desired.
Smoke at 225 degrees F until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 150F. Remove from heat, sear on both sides on the regular grill if desired, and let sit 10 minutes before slicing.