Homemade Savory and Spicy Beef Jerky

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs of lean beef (flank steak or sirloin tip)
  • 1/2 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup of Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup of honey
  • 2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke
  • 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced

Steps and instructions

  1. Begin by trimming all fat off the meat, then place it in the freezer for about an hour to firm up.
  2. Take the meat out of the freezer and slice it into thin strips against the grain for a tender bite.
  3. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, black pepper, onion powder, liquid smoke, red pepper flakes (if using), and minced garlic to make the marinade.
  4. Place the sliced meat in a ziplock bag, pour in the marinade, and ensure all the meat is covered. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
  5. Preheat the oven to 175°F and place a wire rack on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  6. Remove the meat from the marinade, pat dry with paper towels and arrange the strips on the wire rack, ensuring they don't overlap.
  7. Bake the meat for 3-4 hours, or until it is dried out and chewy. The length of time can vary depending on your oven and how thickly the meat is sliced.
  8. Once done, let the jerky cool on the rack before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Tools for making

  • Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for slicing the meat.
  • Sharp Knife - To slice the meat into thin strips.
  • Ziplock Bag - For marinating the meat.
  • Baking Sheet - A large sheet for placing the wire rack and jerky in the oven.
  • Wire Rack - To place the meat on while baking, allowing air to circulate and promote even drying.
  • Aluminum Foil - To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
  • Paper Towels - To pat dry the meat before baking.
  • Airtight Container - For storing the beef jerky once it has cooled.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of meat such as venison, turkey, or chicken instead of beef.
  • Add spices or seasonings like cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or garlic powder to customize the flavor.
  • Experiment with different marinades such as teriyaki sauce, barbecue sauce, or a combination of fruit juices.
  • Add a touch of sweetness by incorporating maple syrup, brown sugar, or molasses into the marinade.
  • Create a spicy version by using hot sauce, chili powder, or crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Try using different types of liquid smoke flavors, such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood.
  • For a smoky flavor without liquid smoke, consider using a smoker or grilling the meat over low heat.
  • For a twist, marinate the meat in a mixture of pineapple juice and soy sauce for a tropical flavor.
  • Include additional ingredients like sesame oil, ginger, or lemongrass for an Asian-inspired jerky.
  • Add a touch of acidity by including lime or lemon juice in the marinade.

Recipe overview

Beef jerky is a protein-packed snack that's perfect for on-the-go, post-workout, or even just a midday pick-me-up. This recipe takes you through the simple process of making your own tasty and nutritious beef jerky at home. You'll start with lean beef, which you'll marinate in a flavorful concoction of soy sauce, Worcestershire, honey, and spices. After some time in the oven, you'll have a delicious, chewy snack that's far superior to any store-bought jerky. This recipe ensures you have total control over the ingredients, the flavors, and the texture of your jerky. It's a straight-forward process that yields amazing results - homemade beef jerky that's full of flavor and packed with protein.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use other lean cuts of beef such as eye of round or top round.
  2. How thin should I slice the meat? For best results, slice the meat into thin strips about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
  3. Can I use a dehydrator instead of the oven? Absolutely! Using a dehydrator is a great alternative. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time and temperature.
  4. Can I adjust the level of spiciness? Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat.
  5. Can I store the beef jerky in the refrigerator? While it is not necessary, you can store the beef jerky in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life.
  6. How long does the beef jerky last? When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the beef jerky can last for up to 2 weeks.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy cutting board is essential for slicing the beef into thin strips.
  • Sharp knife - A sharp knife will make it easier to slice the beef thinly and evenly.
  • Ziplock bag - A ziplock bag is ideal for marinating the beef strips, ensuring they are well-coated.
  • Baking sheet - A large baking sheet will be used to place the wire rack and catch any drippings from the beef jerky.
  • Wire rack - A wire rack allows for proper airflow and helps the beef jerky to cook evenly in the oven.
  • Aluminum foil - Lining the baking sheet with aluminum foil makes for easier cleanup.
  • Paper towels - Paper towels are useful for patting dry the marinated beef strips before baking.
  • Airtight container - An airtight container is needed for storing the beef jerky once it has cooled down.

Origin stories

Beef jerky has a long and storied history, tracing its roots back to the ancient Inca Empire, where it was known as "ch'arki", a Quechua word that means "dried meat". This method of preserving meat was born out of necessity, as the Incas needed a way to store their alpaca and llama meat over the harsh winter months. The Inca method of creating jerky involved salting the meat and leaving it to dry under the powerful Andean sun. European explorers took the concept back to the Old World, and it spread throughout the globe. This ancient food has evolved over time and today's jerky, whether it's beef, turkey, or any other kind of meat, is still a popular snack due to its high protein content and long shelf life. So, when you're enjoying your homemade beef jerky, remember that you're partaking in a culinary tradition that spans continents and centuries.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.