Spicy Beef Jerky Recipe
Description: This spicy beef jerky recipe is not for the faint-hearted; it’s for those who love a kick of heat in their snacks. Marinated with a blend of bold flavors, this jerky is perfect for satisfying your spicy cravings.
Cook Time: 3 hours
Prep Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 8 hours
Yield: Approximately 30 strips
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs London broil beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red chili sauce (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Meat:
- Place the meat in the freezer for about an hour until it’s very firm but not frozen solid. This step makes slicing easier.
-
Slice the Meat:
- Using a long, sharp knife, slice the meat diagonally into strips less than 1/4 inch thick. Thinner slices will dry faster and evenly.
-
Marinate the Meat:
- In a large glass or enamel baking dish, combine the dry red wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, and red chili sauce. Stir well to mix.
- Lay the beef slices flat in the dish, ensuring each piece is coated with the marinade. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Turn the slices occasionally to ensure even marination.
-
Preheat and Prepare for Drying:
- Preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C). Line baking sheets with foil to catch drips, and place wire racks on top. The racks will allow air to circulate around the meat for even drying.
-
Dry the Beef Jerky:
- Remove the marinated beef from the dish and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess marinade.
- Arrange the beef slices in a single layer on the wire racks, ensuring they do not overlap. This ensures even drying.
- Place the baking sheets with the racks into the preheated oven. Dry the jerky for 2 to 3 hours, checking occasionally.
- The jerky is ready when it is dry to the touch, dark brown in color, and still pliable. Avoid over-drying, as it can make the jerky too brittle.
-
Cool and Store:
- Once dried, remove the jerky from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the wire racks.
- Store the cooled beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to several weeks. Enjoy as a spicy snack or pack it for hiking, camping, or any time you need a protein-rich treat.
Tips for Making Spicy Beef Jerky:
- Slice Thickness: Aim for slices that are less than 1/4 inch thick for quicker and more even drying.
- Marinating Time: Longer marinating times, such as overnight, enhance the flavor and tenderness of the jerky.
- Watch Closely: The drying time can vary based on your oven, slice thickness, and humidity. Check the jerky towards the end of the drying period to prevent burning.
- Customize Heat: Adjust the amount of red chili sauce according to your preference for spiciness. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
This spicy beef jerky recipe combines bold flavors with a satisfying chewy texture, making it a favorite snack for those who appreciate a spicy punch in every bite.
