Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs beef (flank steak or sirloin)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Dehydrator
- Sharp knife
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Trim any excess fat from the beef and slice it into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the beef strips to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
5. Preheat the dehydrator to 160°F.
6. Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels.
7. Arrange the beef strips on the dehydrator trays, leaving some space between them.
8. Dehydrate the beef strips for 6-8 hours, or until they are dry and chewy.
9. Let the beef jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 4 hours or overnight
Cooking time: 6-8 hours
5. Temperature:
Dehydrator temperature: 160°F
Serving size:
Makes about 1 lb of beef jerky
Nutritional information:
Calories: 80 per serving
Total fat: 2g
Saturated fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total carbohydrates: 5g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- You can use honey instead of brown sugar for a sweeter flavor.
Variations:
- You can add different spices to the marinade, such as cumin, coriander, or chili powder.
- You can use different types of meat, such as turkey, chicken, or venison.
Tips and tricks:
- Freeze the beef for 30 minutes before slicing it to make it easier to cut.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the beef thinly and evenly.
- If you don't have a dehydrator, you can use an oven set to the lowest temperature and prop the door open slightly to allow air to circulate.
Storage instructions:
Store the beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
Beef jerky is meant to be eaten cold, but you can warm it up in the oven or microwave if you prefer.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the beef jerky on a platter with some sliced cheese, crackers, and fruit for a snack board.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped herbs on top of the beef jerky for extra flavor and texture.
Pairings:
Beef jerky pairs well with beer, cider, or red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the beef jerky with some raw vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, for a healthy snack.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beef jerky is too tough, it may have been overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time next time.
- If the beef jerky is too salty, reduce the amount of soy sauce in the marinade.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use a clean cutting board and knife when preparing the beef.
- Store the beef jerky in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Beef jerky has been around for centuries and was originally used as a way to preserve meat for long periods of time.
Flavor profiles:
Beef jerky is salty, savory, and slightly sweet, with a chewy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Enjoy the beef jerky as a snack on its own, or use it as a topping for salads, sandwiches, or pizzas.
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