I’m so excited to share this beef jerky brine recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. There’s something about the combination of flavors that just makes it irresistible.
I love how the sweetness of the brown sugar balances out the savory flavor of the soy sauce, and how the spices add just the right amount of kick. My kids are always asking me to make it for them, and I have to admit, I’m a bit obsessed with it too. It’s one of those recipes that just gets better with time, and I love how it’s perfect for snacking on the go or as a quick addition to any meal.
Plus, let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good excuse to get creative in the kitchen? I’ve tried making it with different types of meat, but beef is definitely my favorite. It’s just so tender and flavorful after marinating in this amazing brine.
My kids even ask for it as an alternative to their favorite chicken nuggets! And don’t even get me started on the health benefits – this recipe is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals that make you feel good from the inside out. Plus, since we’re using natural ingredients, you can feel great about what you’re putting into your body.
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that this recipe is not just a treat, but also a staple in our household.
Beef Jerky Brine Recipe
4.7 from 653 votes
This beef jerky brine creates a savory, slightly sweet marinade that infuses the meat with deep flavor and ensures a tender, chewy texture. The brine uses soy sauce, Worcestershire, brown sugar, and spices to season the beef before drying.
2 pounds beef top round or flank steak, sliced 1/4 inch thick
👨🍳Directions
1In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, honey, liquid smoke, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and curing salt if using until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2This creates the brine that will season and tenderize the beef.
3Place the sliced beef strips into a resealable plastic bag or glass dish and pour the brine over them, ensuring all pieces are submerged.
4Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 6 to 12 hours, flipping the bag occasionally to distribute the brine evenly.
5After marinating, remove the beef strips from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
6Discard the used brine.
7Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on dehydrator trays or on wire racks placed over baking sheets, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
8If using an oven, preheat it to 175°F (80°C) and place the racks in the center.
9Dehydrate the beef at 160°F (70°C) for 4 to 6 hours, or until the jerky is dry but still pliable and bends without cracking.
10Check after 4 hours by pressing a piece; it should feel firm and leathery with no visible moisture.
11Remove the jerky from the dehydrator or oven and let it cool completely on the racks for about 30 minutes.
12Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
For best results, slice the beef against the grain for a more tender jerky. Adjust the red pepper flakes to control spiciness. Curing salt helps preserve color and inhibit bacteria but is optional.
Watch Video Of How Beef Jerky Brine Recipe Works
This beef jerky brine recipe is truly a staple in our household – we love how easy it is to make and how delicious it turns out every time.
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that this recipe works perfectly for both everyday snacking and special occasions like holidays or parties.
Just be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days – reheat by microwaving or oven-roasting until crispy again.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Jerky Brine
What type of meat should I use for this recipe?
You can use any type of beef you like best – ribeye, sirloin, or even ground beef will work great in this recipe.
How long do I need to marinate the meat?
The longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be – aim for at least 2 hours but up to 24 hours if you have time.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this recipe up to a week ahead of time – just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Unfortunately not – this recipe contains beef and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Can I use store-bought beef broth instead?
While store-bought broth will give you a similar flavor profile, using homemade broth really makes this dish shine – try making your own broth from scratch for an extra boost of flavor.
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