Excellent Beef Jerky Recipe
Description: This Excellent Beef Jerky recipe is perfect for those who love a delicious, savory snack that can be enjoyed at any time. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, hosting a brunch, or just craving a protein-packed snack, this jerky is sure to impress. With minimal preparation and a few key ingredients, you can create a flavorful, homemade beef jerky that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Ideal for large groups, this recipe will make enough to share, or keep for yourself!
Recipe Information
| Category | Lunch/Snacks |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 24 hours |
| Cook Time | 3 hours |
| Total Time | 27 hours |
| Recipe Servings | 50 servings |
| Yield | Approx. 50 strips of jerky |
| Calories per Serving | 17.6 calories |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Seasoning salt | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tbsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tbsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/3 cup |
| Liquid smoke | 1/3 tsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Value | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 17.6 kcal |
| Fat | 0.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 3.7 mg |
| Sodium | 130 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0.2 g |
| Protein | 2.1 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Meat
Start by patting the flank steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Slice the steak into thin strips, making sure to cut across the grain of the meat to ensure a tender texture. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick, as this will help them dry properly during cooking. -
-
Marinate the Meat
In a large plastic bag, combine the seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. Add the beef strips into the bag, and mix well so that each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Seal the bag tightly, pressing out as much air as possible to help the flavors penetrate the meat. -
Refrigerate
Refrigerate the marinated beef overnight. This will allow the meat to absorb all of the flavors and enhance the jerky’s overall taste. Make sure the bag is in a place where it won’t be disturbed, and flip the bag occasionally to ensure all pieces are marinated evenly. -
Prepare for Cooking
The next day, remove the marinated beef from the refrigerator. Place the strips onto paper towels and blot them gently to remove any excess marinade. This helps the jerky dry evenly and prevents it from becoming too soggy during cooking. -
Dry the Jerky
Preheat your oven to 140ºF (60ºC). Line the bottom of your oven with a piece of aluminum foil to catch any drippings, keeping your oven clean. Lay the marinated beef strips directly on the oven rack, ensuring there’s enough space between each piece for air circulation. -
Bake
Place the beef strips in the oven and cook for 3 hours. Check the jerky at the halfway point to make sure the pieces aren’t sticking together. If they are, gently rearrange them to maintain airflow around each strip. The jerky should be dry to the touch and firm, but still slightly flexible when done. -
Cool and Store
Once the jerky is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the jerky to a jar or airtight container. For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the jerky overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen and intensify.
Tips for Perfect Jerky
- Meat Selection: Choose a lean cut of beef, such as flank steak or top round, as these cuts have less fat, which can spoil the jerky over time. Trim off any visible fat before slicing.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or even a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Drying Method: If you prefer, you can also use a dehydrator instead of an oven. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for jerky making, typically around 160ºF for 4-6 hours.
- Storage: Homemade beef jerky can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef jerky is a classic snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a road trip, adding it to your hiking pack, or serving it up at your next party, this homemade jerky recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. The combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke creates a savory, smoky profile that pairs perfectly with the tender beef. Plus, it’s high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for a healthy snack!
This jerky recipe yields about 50 servings, meaning it’s perfect for large groups or sharing with friends and family. The prep time may seem long, but once you get it in the refrigerator, the hands-on time is minimal. With its bold flavor and satisfying texture, this excellent beef jerky is sure to become your new favorite homemade snack.
Enjoy!
