Description
Skip the store bought jerky and make your own with this easy recipe. Perfectly seasoned, smoky, and chewy homemade beef jerky that’s better than anything you can buy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ to 2 pounds lean beef (like top round, eye of round, or flank steak), partially frozen for easier slicing
- ¾ cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Slice the Meat: While the meat is still partially frozen, slice it against the grain into ¼-inch thick strips. Slicing against the grain will make your final jerky much easier to chew.
- Create the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, and all the spices until the sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate Thoroughly: Place the beef strips in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow glass dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight will give you the most profound flavor.
- Dry the Jerky: Preheat your oven or dehydrator to 165°F (74°C). If using an oven, place wire racks on top of baking sheets to allow for air circulation. Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer on the racks, making sure they do not touch.
- Cook Low and Slow: Dry the jerky for 4 to 6 hours. The jerky is done when it is dry and firm but still pliable. It should bend without breaking in half. Cooking time can vary, so start checking at the 4-hour mark.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 weeks, in the refrigerator for up to 2 months, or in the freezer for up to 6 months. For gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Dehydrating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 35mg