Fig Serrano Tri-Tip Sandwich with Caramelized Onion & Arugula

Bold, rich, and unmistakably California-inspired, this Fig Serrano Tri-Tip Sandwich brings together smoky grilled beef, sweet fig BBQ sauce, and fresh greens on a crisp toasted roll. Thinly sliced tri-tip is brushed with Bearfoot BBQ Fig Serrano BBQ Sauce, creating a glossy glaze that pairs the deep sweetness of California figs with the bright heat of serrano chiles.

The beef is layered with caramelized onions, peppery arugula, and creamy cheese on a toasted ciabatta or Dutch crunch roll. The result is a sandwich that balances smoky, savory, sweet, and fresh flavors in every bite.

Perfect for lunch, casual dinners, or backyard grilling, this sandwich showcases how versatile BBQ sauce can be beyond the grill.

Why Fig Serrano BBQ Sauce Works with Tri-Tip

Tri-tip is known for its deep, beefy flavor and juicy texture, making it an ideal canvas for sauces that combine sweetness and heat.

Bearfoot BBQ Fig Serrano Sauce complements the richness of the beef with the natural sweetness of figs while the serrano chile adds a subtle warmth that keeps the sandwich balanced. When brushed onto the steak during grilling, the sauce lightly caramelizes, creating a flavorful glaze that enhances the charred exterior of the meat.

This combination makes it ideal for:

• grilled tri-tip sandwiches
• California BBQ recipes
• steak sandwiches
• backyard grilling meals
• elevated lunch sandwiches

Caramelized Onion & Arugula

Caramelized onions bring a deep sweetness that complements the fig sauce, while arugula adds a fresh peppery bite that balances the richness of the beef.

Together they create a sandwich that feels layered, bright, and satisfying.

Ingredients

Tri-Tip

1½–2 lb tri-tip roast
⅓ cup Bearfoot BBQ Fig Serrano BBQ Sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp cracked black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder

Caramelized Onions

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch kosher salt

Sandwich

4 ciabatta rolls or Dutch crunch rolls
4 slices aged cheddar, provolone or fontina cheese
1 cup fresh arugula
Extra Bearfoot BBQ Fig Serrano BBQ Sauce for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Tri-Tip

Pat the tri-tip dry and season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the tri-tip for about 6–7 minutes per side until a deep crust forms, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking.

Brush lightly with Bearfoot BBQ Fig Serrano BBQ Sauce during the final minutes of cooking.

Cook until internal temperature reaches about 130–135°F for medium-rare. Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Caramelize the Onions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt.

Cook slowly for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft, golden, and caramelized.

Assemble the Sandwich

Lightly toast the rolls.

Layer sliced tri-tip onto the bottom half of each roll and top with the cheese you choose. Place briefly under a broiler or cover in a skillet until the cheese melts.

Add caramelized onions and fresh arugula.

Finish with a drizzle of Bearfoot BBQ Fig Serrano BBQ Sauce and close the sandwich.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with sides that complement the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Pairs well with:

• crispy fries
• roasted potatoes
• simple cabbage slaw
• bold red wines like Zinfandel or Syrah

BBQ Sauce Beyond the Grill

BBQ sauce can bring depth and balance to far more than traditional barbecue plates.

Bearfoot BBQ Fig Serrano Sauce blends the deep sweetness of California figs with the bright heat of serrano chiles, creating a versatile sauce that works beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, pizzas, and roasted vegetables.

For bold flavor and creative cooking, Fig Serrano BBQ Sauce brings a fresh California twist to classic dishes like steak sandwiches.