Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice wine
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Special Equipment Needed:
- Dehydrator or oven with low temperature setting
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade and toss to coat well.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat the dehydrator or oven to 160°F.
5. Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Arrange the beef strips on the dehydrator trays or on wire racks set on baking sheets.
7. If using an oven, place the beef strips directly on the oven racks.
8. Dehydrate or bake the beef strips for 6-8 hours, or until they are dry and chewy.
9. Let the beef jerky cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Marinade time: 4 hours or overnight
- Cooking time: 6-8 hours
Temperature:
- Dehydrator or oven set to 160°F
Serving size:
- Makes about 8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 23g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of beef sirloin, you can use flank steak or round steak.
- Instead of rice wine, you can use dry sherry or white wine.
- Instead of brown sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of pineapple juice to the marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Use smoked paprika instead of red pepper flakes for a smoky flavor.
- Add 1 tbsp of grated ginger to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Tips and Tricks:
- Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender jerky.
- Use a sharp knife or a meat slicer to slice the beef thinly and evenly.
- If using an oven, prop the door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow air circulation.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Instructions:
- If the beef jerky becomes too dry, you can rehydrate it by placing it in a plastic bag with a slice of bread for a few hours.
Presentation Ideas:
- Arrange the beef jerky on a platter with sliced vegetables and dips.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top of the beef jerky.
Pairings:
- Serve with cold beer or a glass of red wine.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Rice crackers, roasted nuts, or dried fruit.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the beef jerky is too tough, it may have been overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time next time.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when handling raw meat.
- Store the beef jerky in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food History:
- Nai Lao beef jerky is a popular snack in Taiwan, where it is often made with soy sauce, rice wine, and spices.
Flavor Profiles:
- Savory, salty, and slightly sweet with a hint of sesame and garlic.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or as a protein-packed addition to a lunch box.
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Region: Lao