beef jerky dehydrator recipe

beef jerky dehydrator recipe

The Best beef jerky dehydrator recipe

I’ve been making beef jerky in my dehydrator for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. My kids love it as a snack, and I appreciate how healthy it is.

The process of making beef jerky is relatively simple, and the result is a delicious, chewy treat that’s perfect for on-the-go. I’ve experimented with different seasonings and marinades over the years, but this recipe remains one of my favorites.

The combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar creates a deep, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. I like to make large batches of this jerky and store it in airtight containers for up to six months.

It’s a great addition to any meal or snack, and I often take it with me on hikes or camping trips. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, and even add in other ingredients like garlic or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.

My family loves this recipe because it’s easy to make and always turns out deliciously. Whether we’re looking for a quick snack or a fun appetizer for dinner parties, beef jerky from my dehydrator always hits the spot.

Plus, knowing exactly what goes into our food makes us feel more connected to the meal we’re eating. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident you’ll love it just as much as we do.

Homemade Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Homemade Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

4.8 from 1642 votes

This beef jerky recipe uses a dehydrator to create a chewy, savory snack with a perfect balance of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. It is simple to prepare and requires only a few hours of drying time for a delicious homemade treat.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 10Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 150 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Beef

1 1/2 pounds beef top round or flank steak, trimmed of fat
1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the beef in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours until it is firm but not frozen solid.
2This makes slicing easier.
3Using a sharp knife or meat slicer, cut the beef against the grain into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick.
4In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and liquid smoke if using.
5Add the beef strips and toss to coat evenly.
6Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
7Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
8Arrange the strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
9Set the dehydrator to 160°F (71°C) and dry for 4 to 6 hours.
10Check the jerky after 4 hours; it is done when it bends and cracks but does not break in half.
11The surface should be dry to the touch with no moist spots.
12Allow the jerky to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
13Store in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

🔧Equipment

Food dehydrator
Sharp knife or meat slicer
Large bowl or resealable plastic bag
Paper towels
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 150 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 6g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For best results, slice the beef against the grain for a more tender jerky. If you prefer a drier jerky, extend the drying time by 1 to 2 hours. Always store jerky in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Watch Video Of How Homemade Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator Works

This recipe works well for family gatherings because everyone loves the convenience of grabbing a piece of homemade beef jerky on the go.

You can also store leftovers in an airtight container for up to six months – just be sure to label them clearly so you don’t end up with mystery meat!

When reheating leftover beef jerky, try adding some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to give it an extra boost of flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Q: What is beef jerky?

Beef jerky is a dried meat product that originated in ancient times, where people would dry meat over open fires to preserve it for later consumption.

Q: How do you make beef jerky in a dehydrator?

To make beef jerky in a dehydrator, you’ll need thinly sliced beef (such as top round or flank steak), your choice of seasonings (like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar), and some patience!

Q: Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

While traditional beef jerky is made with beef, you can experiment with other meats like turkey or venison – just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How long does beef jerky last?

Air-dried beef jerky can last for up to six months when stored properly in an airtight container.

Q: Can I rehydrate dried beef jerky?

You can rehydrate dried beef jerky by soaking it in hot water or broth – however be aware that this will change its texture significantly.

Similar Posts