Are you ready to elevate your snack game? Forget store-bought jerky – the artificial ingredients and lackluster flavor just don't compare to the smoky, savory goodness of homemade beef jerky. This recipe is perfect for smokers, delivering incredibly tender and flavorful jerky every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy and satisfying food recipe! This is the perfect quick dinner idea, or a great addition to your healthy meal prep. It's also a fantastic way to preserve meat and enjoy delicious dishes throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs beef sirloin or round steak, thinly sliced against the grain (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Equipment:
- Meat slicer (highly recommended for even thickness)
- Large zip-top bag or container
- Smoker (electric, gas, or charcoal)
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). This homemade marinade is key to achieving delicious and tender jerky.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Place the thinly sliced beef into the zip-top bag or container. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are fully coated. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your jerky will be!
Step 3: Prepare the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 170°F (77°C). If using wood chips, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to your smoker. Hickory, mesquite, or applewood chips all work wonderfully with beef jerky.
Step 4: Smoke the Beef
Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer on your smoker racks, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. Avoid overcrowding the smoker for even cooking. Smoke the beef for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is completely dry and chewy. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your beef and your smoker.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy!
Once the jerky has reached the desired texture and internal temperature, remove it from the smoker and allow it to cool completely. Store your homemade beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Jerky:
- Thinly sliced beef is crucial: Using a meat slicer ensures even cooking and prevents tough jerky.
- Don't overcrowd the smoker: Allow for good air circulation to prevent steaming and ensure even drying.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your jerky reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Experiment with different marinades: Feel free to adjust the spices and flavors to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Jerky: Add more red pepper flakes, or include a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Sweet and Smoky Jerky: Increase the brown sugar and use a sweeter wood chip like applewood.
- Teriyaki Jerky: Substitute soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a distinct Asian-inspired flavor.
Nutritional Information (per ounce, approximate):
- Calories: 70-80
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 2-3g
- Sodium: High (due to soy sauce)
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to make your own homemade beef jerky. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and intense flavor of this fantastic healthy meal option! Remember to always prioritize food safety and proper handling of meat. Happy jerky making!