beef jerky in food dehydrator recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best beef jerky in food dehydrator recipe

I’ve been making beef jerky in my food dehydrator for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. My kids love the convenience of having a protein-rich snack that’s easy to take on the go.

I love how customizable this recipe is – you can experiment with different seasonings and marinades to create unique flavor profiles. It’s also a great way to reduce food waste, as you can use up any leftover meat or scraps of veggies to make your own jerky.

The process of making jerky is surprisingly easy, and it’s a fun project to do with the kids. We like to get creative with our marinades and seasonings, using ingredients like soy sauce, garlic powder, and dried herbs.

The result is a deliciously chewy snack that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. I’ve found that beef jerky is a perfect addition to any meal or snack time, whether we’re packing lunches for school or enjoying a quick after-school snack at home.

Plus, it’s incredibly healthy – just be sure to choose low-sodium options for the seasonings and marinades. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can make it in bulk and store it for later use, perfect for camping trips or road trips.

The process of making jerky is also surprisingly therapeutic – there’s something soothing about watching the meat dry slowly in the dehydrator. I’ve found that this recipe has become a great way to teach my kids about food preparation and nutrition, too – they love learning about where their food comes from and how it’s made.

Classic Beef Jerky in a Food Dehydrator

4.8 from 936 votes

This recipe yields tender, savory beef jerky with a perfect chewy texture. The marinade infuses the meat with a balanced blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire, and spices.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef

2 pounds top round or flank steak, partially frozen
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Trim any visible fat from the partially frozen beef and slice it against the grain into strips about 1/4 inch thick.
2Thinner strips will dry faster and become crispier, while thicker strips yield a chewier jerky.
3In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke if using.
4Place the beef strips in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, turning to coat evenly.
5Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
6Longer marinating allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat more thoroughly.
7Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them 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 and dry the jerky for 4 to 6 hours, checking after 4 hours.
10The jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break in half, and the surface feels dry to the touch.
11Let the jerky cool completely at room temperature before storing in an airtight container.
12Properly dried jerky will keep for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.

🔧Equipment

Food dehydrator
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 4g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For best results, use lean cuts of beef and slice against the grain for a tender bite. Store jerky in a cool, dark place and consume within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.

Watch Video Of How Classic Beef Jerky in a Food Dehydrator Works

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat – simply place the dried strips in an airtight container and keep them on hand for up to 2 weeks.

When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade beef jerky, simply reheat it in the microwave or oven until crispy and serve as an appetizer or snack.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re packing lunches for school or enjoying a quick after-school snack at home.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Jerky in a Food Dehydrator

Q: What type of meat works best for beef jerky?

For this recipe, we recommend using thinly sliced beef – such as top round or sirloin – as it dries evenly and has a good texture.

Q: Can I use other types of meat besides beef?

Yes! You can also use other types of meat like turkey, chicken, or even fish – just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How long does it take to make beef jerky?

The entire process typically takes around 6-8 hours from start to finish – including marinating time.

Q: Can I store beef jerky in the fridge or freezer?

Yes! Beef jerky can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Is beef jerky healthy?

Beef jerky can be a nutritious snack option if you choose low-sodium options for the seasonings and marinades.

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