Cardiff Crack recipe, marinated tri-tip steak originating from the Seaside Market in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California. It gained notorious acclaim for its rich, taste-forward, and meltingly tender texture. The reason it’s called Cardiff Crack has to do with how delicious and addictive people find this dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a dinner party, the recipe is great for wowing your guests with a delectable and unique centerpiece.
The key ingredient in preparing Cardiff Crack recipe is soaking the tri-tip in brine. That is a marinade of burgundy wine, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Tri-tip should be well coated in this stuff and refrigerated for, at least, 24 hours. This means the meat will bamboo the entire time, soaking in all the flavors and tenderizing. The combination of sweet, savory, and peppery notes makes this marinade special and gives Cardiff Crack its signature taste.
The tri-tip is grilled to perfection after marination. The heat should be medium-high, searing both sides and forming a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. After cooking to your desired doneness, the meat will need to rest for a few minutes before cutting. Cardiff Crack is best eaten sliced thin against the grain, and can be served with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes or a green salad. This delicious recipe brings a taste of California to any meal!
What is Cardiff Crack Recipe?
First things first — what’s with the name Cardiff Crack recipe? No, it’s not what you’re thinking! The “crack” part comes from how insanely addictive this tri-tip steak is — one bite and you’ll be hooked. You know what they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” — and this dish proves that saying 100%. It’s marinated to perfection, grilled until juicy and tender, and bursting with flavor. So, if you’ve never heard of Cardiff Crack before, now’s the time to change that. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! Ready to get hooked? Keep reading for the full recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Cardiff Crack Recipe
1. Juicy, Flavor-Packed Steak that Melts in Your Mouth
The highlight of Cardiff Crack is its rich burgundy pepper marinade that soaks deep into the tri-tip, giving it an unforgettable savory, slightly sweet, and peppery kick. Every bite is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor — perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
2. Save Money by Making It at Home
Who wants to pay a premium for store-bought marinated steaks when you can make this showstopper in your own kitchen for a fraction of the price? All you need are several pantry staples and a nice cut of tri-tip, and you’ll turn out a gourmet-level dish for a fraction of the price. And since you make it yourself, you control what goes in it and the flavor.
3. Unique and Delicious Marinade that Stands Out
Whereas a typical steak marinade may be one-note, Cardiff Crack packs in an elevated, multi-dimensional combination of burgundy wine, soy sauce, garlic, and pepper. If you loved our Easy Grilled Steak Marinade, Cardiff Crack is a souped-up version that adds even more complexity and richness. Try it out and see why this recipe is so beloved!
How to Make Cardiff Crack Recipe
Quick Overview
Making Cardiff Crack recipe is easier than you think! All you need is a flavorful marinade, a quality tri-tip steak, and a grill. The marinade does most of the work, so your hands-on time is minimal — just 10 minutes to prep, a few hours (or overnight) to marinate, and about 20-25 minutes to cook. Perfect for a delicious meal without the stress!
Key Ingredients for Cardiff Crack Recipe:
- 2-3 lbs tri-tip steak (well-trimmed)
- 1 cup burgundy wine (or red wine)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky touch)
What to Serve Cardiff Crack recipe With:
Wondering what to serve with your juicy Cardiff Crack recipe? Here are some perfect pairings:
- Garlic mashed potatoes – a creamy, comforting side to balance the bold flavors.
- Grilled veggies – like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for a light, healthy touch.
- Crisp green salad – a refreshing counterpoint to the rich steak.
- Crusty bread – perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
- Pair with a glass of red wine (burgundy, of course!) for a complete experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting Cardiff Crack:
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor — overnight is best, but a minimum of 6 hours works too.
- Don’t overcook — tri-tip is best served medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness.
- Let it rest before slicing — this keeps the juices locked in and the meat extra juicy.
- Slice against the grain — for that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Want a smoky flavor? Add wood chips to your grill or finish with a quick sear over high heat.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, or microwave in short bursts.
- Freeze for longer storage: Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Great for meal prep — use leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or tacos!
Health Benefits of Cardiff Crack Recipe:
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| High-Protein Tri-Tip | Supports muscle building and repair |
| Garlic | Boosts immune health, anti-inflammatory |
| Black Pepper | Aids digestion, adds antioxidants |
| Soy Sauce | Provides umami flavor with minimal fat |
| Burgundy Wine (Marinade) | Adds flavor, contains heart-healthy antioxidants |
cardiff crack recipe From DelishDish!
cardiff crack recipe
Course: main courseCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes20
minutes360
kcalLearn how to make the famous Cardiff Crack recipe — a juicy, flavorful marinated tri-tip steak infused with burgundy wine, soy sauce, garlic, and pepper. Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, and easy entertaining!
Ingredients
2-3 lbs tri-tip steak (well-trimmed)
1 cup burgundy wine (or red wine)
½ cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp cracked black pepper
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky touch)
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine burgundy wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, cracked pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved. - Marinate the Tri-Tip:
Place the tri-tip steak in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Seal and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor. - Preheat the Grill:
Remove the steak from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). - Grill the Steak:
Place the tri-tip on the grill and sear for 4-5 minutes per side to develop a nice crust.
Lower the heat to medium and continue cooking, turning occasionally, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. - Rest and Slice:
Transfer the steak to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. 
Notes
- Marination time is key — marinate for at least 6 hours, but overnight for the best flavor.
For a smoky finish, add wood chips to the grill or a touch of liquid smoke to the marinade.
Slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
Perfect for serving with mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or in sandwiches!
Conclusion
This Cardiff Crack recipe is one you have just got to try if you’re looking for a mouthwatering flavorful steak recipe that is sure to impress. Not only does its style allow for a juicy, savory bite every time, but its rich burgundy pepper marinade and tender tri-tip cut add to the flavor as well. Whether you’re a grilling expert or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will make you look like a master chef at any barbecue. The best part? You only need a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience while the meat marinates then let the grill do the magic!
When you make Cardiff Crack at home, you also get to enjoy a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant at a fraction of the cost. But rather than shelling out for expensive pre-marinated varieties, you can achieve the same unforgettable flavor with pantry ingredients. Better yet, you’re in complete control of the flavor — add extra garlic for a punchier taste or an extra dash of pepper for a spicier snap. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables or in a sandwich, and you’ve
So, if you want to impress your family and guests, give this Cardiff Crack recipe a try and bring a taste of California home to your dinner table. This is perfect for BBQ nights, family dinners or even making a meal for the week! After you do, you’ll understand why Cardiff Crack has such a devoted following this is a recipe you’re going to want to repeat again and again.Don’t forget to share your results or tips in the comments we’d love to hear how it turned out!
FAQs: Cardiff Crack Cecipe
What is Cardiff Crack?
Cardiff Crack is a famous marinated tri-tip steak originally sold at Seaside Market in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California. It is known for its juicy, tender texture and rich flavor, thanks to a special burgundy pepper marinade.
What cut of meat is used for Cardiff Crack?
Cardiff Crack is made using tri-tip steak, a flavorful and tender cut from the bottom sirloin. It absorbs marinades well and is perfect for grilling, broiling, or roasting.
How long should I marinate Cardiff Crack?
For the best flavor and tenderness, Cardiff Crack should be marinated for at least 6 hours, but ideally overnight. The longer it marinates, the richer the flavor.
Can I cook Cardiff Crack in the oven?
Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook Cardiff Crack in the oven. Roast it at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Broiling is also an option for a charred finish.
What are the best sides to serve with Cardiff Crack?
Cardiff Crack pairs well with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad. It’s also great in sandwiches, wraps, or sliced over rice bowls.
Can I freeze Cardiff Crack after marinating?
Yes, you can freeze Cardiff Crack while it is marinating. Place the marinated steak in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and freeze. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Share Your Twist!
We know everyone loves adding their own special touch to a classic recipe — and Cardiff Crack is no exception! Have you tried this recipe and made it your own? Maybe you added extra spices to the marinade, swapped tri-tip for another cut of meat, or served it with a creative side dish? We’d love to hear all about it!
Leave a comment below and share how you made this Cardiff Crack recipe uniquely yours. Did you go for a spicy version? Add a sweet twist with a honey glaze? Or maybe you created the ultimate sandwich using slices of Cardiff Crack? Your ideas might inspire others in our cooking community to try something new.
So, don’t be shy — tell us your twist and let’s keep the flavor creativity flowing! And if you snap a picture of your delicious creation, feel free to share it — because who doesn’t love a little food inspiration? Happy cooking
