There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of homemade beef jerky. It’s the perfect protein-packed snack that’s simple to make and customizable to your taste. If you’re ready to dive into the world of jerky-making, let’s get started with a delicious recipe that will have you snacking in no time.
The Best Homemade Beef Jerky
Making your own beef jerky at home is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a batch that rivals store-bought versions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of lean beef (top round, sirloin, or flank steak)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional for a sweeter jerky)
Instructions
- First, begin by trimming any excess fat from the beef, as fat can spoil and affect the texture of your jerky.
- Once trimmed, slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. For easier slicing, you can freeze the meat for about an hour before cutting it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar until combined.
- Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your oven to 175°F (or your dehydrator according to its instructions).
- Remove the beef from the marinade and pat the strips dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid. This will help achieve a good texture.
- Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or on the dehydrator trays. Make sure there is space between the strips for airflow.
- Bake in the oven or dehydrate until the jerky is dried and firm but still slightly pliable. This process usually takes about 4 to 6 hours in the oven, depending on thickness.
- Once done, allow the jerky to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Properly dried jerky can last for weeks!
Enjoy your homemade beef jerky on road trips, hikes, or simply as a tasty snack at home. It’s a delightful treat you can feel great about sharing with family and friends.
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source = www.onceuponachef.com