Homemade Beef Jerky

Ingredients :

• 2 pounds lean beef
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon curing salt

Step 1: Slice the Beef

1. Place the beef in the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes. This firms the meat and makes slicing easier.
2. Slice the beef into thin strips about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cut with the grain for a chewier jerky or against the grain for a more tender texture.

Step 2: Marinate the Meat

1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and curing salt.
2. Add the sliced beef and toss until all pieces are well coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 8 to 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully absorb.

Step 3: Dry the Jerky

Oven Method

1. Preheat the oven to 170°F (75°C).
2. Place the marinated beef strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 3 to 5 hours, turning the strips once during drying.

Dehydrator Method

1. Set the dehydrator to 160°F (70°C).
2. Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on the trays.
3. Dry for 4 to 6 hours until the jerky is firm but still flexible.

Step 4: How to Know When Jerky Is Done

Properly dried jerky should:

• Bend without snapping in half
• Show no visible moisture
• Have a slightly chewy texture

storage

• Room temperature (sealed container): up to 1 week
• Refrigerator: 3 to 4 weeks
• Freezer: up to 3 months