Are you craving a delicious, protein-packed snack that's perfect for hiking, road trips, or just a satisfying munchie? Look no further! This recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Alton Brown, guides you through making your own incredible beef jerky at home. It's easier than you think, and the results are far superior to store-bought jerky. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade, flavorful, and healthy beef jerky! This is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's also a great quick dinner idea if you're looking for something savory.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef sirloin tip, thinly sliced against the grain (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a large resealable bag or shallow dish, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the sliced beef, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated in the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your jerky will be!
Step 2: Prepare for Dehydration
Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good jerky texture. Excess moisture will lead to a chewy, less desirable result.
Step 3: Dehydrate the Jerky
Preheat your dehydrator according to the manufacturer's instructions. Arrange the beef slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, making sure they don't overlap. This ensures even drying and prevents mold growth. Dehydrate at 160°F (71°C) for 6-12 hours, or until the jerky is completely dry and leathery. The drying time will depend on the thickness of your beef slices and your dehydrator's efficiency.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Once the jerky is completely dry, remove it from the dehydrator and allow it to cool completely. Store the jerky in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. This delicious homemade jerky will keep for several weeks.
Tips for the Best Beef Jerky:
- Thinly sliced beef: Using a meat slicer is ideal for consistent thickness, but a very sharp knife will work as well.
- Don't overcrowd the dehydrator: Proper airflow is key to even drying. Overcrowding can lead to unevenly dried jerky.
- Check for doneness: The jerky should be completely dry and leathery, not sticky or moist.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other spices or seasonings to customize your jerky to your taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Jerky: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add other chili powders for extra heat.
- Sweet and Smoky Jerky: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the marinade for a sweeter flavor.
- Teriyaki Jerky: Substitute soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per ounce, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and cut of beef used. However, a general estimate per ounce is:
- Calories: 70-90
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
This recipe for delicious beef jerky offers a healthy and satisfying alternative to store-bought options. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be simple, fun, and rewarding. Enjoy your delicious creation!