sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe

I’m so excited to share my sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe with you all today! I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it because it’s a fun and tasty snack that’s easy to take on the go.

Plus, it’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a great option for after-school snacks or pre-workout fuel. I’ve also found that it’s a perfect recipe for when we have family gatherings or potlucks – everyone loves the sweet and spicy flavors, and it’s easy to make in bulk. As a busy mom, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – I can use it for everything from a quick lunch to a party appetizer.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some time in the oven. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and convenient snack that’s sure to please, give this sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe a try!

One of the things I love about this recipe is how customizable it is – you can adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or less chili flakes. And if you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can always omit the chili flakes altogether. The key to making great beef jerky is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook it – you want it to be tender and chewy, not tough and dry.

I like to use a combination of soy sauce and honey for the marinade, which gives the jerky a rich, savory flavor that’s balanced by the sweetness of the honey. Of course, you can always experiment with different marinade ingredients to find the combination that works best for you. But trust me, this sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe is a game-changer – once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Sweet and Spicy Beef Jerky

4.8 from 690 votes

This homemade beef jerky combines the heat of red pepper flakes with the sweetness of brown sugar and honey. It is chewy, flavorful, and perfect for a high-protein snack on the go.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef and Marinade

2 lbs beef top round or flank steak, trimmed of fat
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the beef in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours until firm but not frozen solid.
2Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick, trimming any visible fat.
3In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
4Place the beef strips in a large resealable bag or glass dish, pour the marinade over them, and seal.
5Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
6Preheat the oven to 175°F (or the lowest setting) and line a baking sheet with foil.
7Place a wire rack on top.
8Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
9Arrange the strips in a single layer on the rack without overlapping.
10Bake for 3 to 4 hours, checking after 3 hours.
11The jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break in half.
12For a chewier texture, bake an additional 30 minutes.
13Let cool completely on the rack before storing.

🔧Equipment

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Large resealable plastic bag or glass bowl
Wire rack
Baking sheet
Paper towels
Oven or dehydrator

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 50mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a milder jerky, reduce red pepper flakes and cayenne to 1/4 teaspoon each. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Watch Video Of How Sweet and Spicy Beef Jerky Works

This sweet and spicy beef jerky recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something more substantial for dinner. It works beautifully as an appetizer at family gatherings or parties, too.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to store: simply wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep them in an airtight container in your fridge. When you’re ready to serve them up again, simply slice them into thin strips and reheat in the microwave or oven until crispy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Spicy Beef Jerky

Q: What type of meat should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using top round or flank steak for this recipe – these cuts are leaner than other cuts of beef, which makes them perfect for jerky. You can also use sirloin or ribeye if you prefer a fattier meat.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a dehydrator?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a dehydrator! In fact, using a dehydrator is one of the best ways to ensure that your beef jerky turns out perfectly tender and chewy. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for temperature and time.

Q: How long does beef jerky last?

Beef jerky is best consumed within 2-3 weeks of making it – after that, the quality will start to degrade.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Sure thing! Some ideas include adding garlic powder or onion powder to give your jerky an extra boost of flavor. You could also try adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Q: Is beef jerky healthy?

Beef jerky can be a healthy snack option if made correctly – look for recipes that use low-sodium soy sauce and minimal added sugars.

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