Craving a flavorful and satisfying snack that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This honey BBQ beef jerky recipe is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights or weekend projects. Forget store-bought jerky filled with unknown ingredients – this homemade version lets you control the flavor and quality, resulting in a healthy and irresistible treat. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed for everyone. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Begin by slicing your beef sirloin thinly against the grain. This ensures tender jerky. Using a meat slicer is ideal, but a very sharp knife will work too. Aim for uniform thickness for even cooking.
Marinate the Beef:
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In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your jerky will be!
Dehydrate or Bake:
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Dehydrator Method: If using a food dehydrator, arrange the marinated beef slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Follow your dehydrator's instructions, generally dehydrating at 160°F (71°C) for 6-8 hours, or until the jerky is completely dry and chewy.
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Oven Method: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (ideally around 170°F or 77°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper and arrange the marinated beef slices in a single layer. Bake for 4-6 hours, flipping halfway, until the jerky is dry and chewy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Cool and Enjoy!
- Once the jerky is completely dry and reaches your desired texture, remove it from the dehydrator or oven. Let it cool completely before storing.
Tips for the Best Honey BBQ Beef Jerky:
- Thinly Sliced Beef is Key: The thinner the slices, the faster and more evenly they'll cook.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure the beef slices aren't overlapping when dehydrating or baking for even drying.
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Storage: Store your homemade jerky in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
- Teriyaki Jerky: Replace the honey BBQ marinade with a teriyaki marinade for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Jerky: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add other chili flakes for extra heat.
- Sweet and Smoky Jerky: Add a tablespoon of liquid smoke to the marinade for a deeper smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per ounce, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific cuts of beef and ingredients used. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis using your exact ingredients and portion sizes. However, generally, you can expect a relatively high protein content with moderate fat and sodium.
This recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and delicious dishes. Enjoy your homemade honey BBQ beef jerky! It's perfect for a healthy snack, a hiking adventure, or simply a satisfying treat anytime.