What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of lean beef (such as top round or sirloin)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)
- A food dehydrator or an oven with a low temperature setting
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by trimming any visible fat from the beef and cutting it into long, thin strips. It’s important to remove as much fat as possible since fat doesn’t dehydrate well and can lead to spoilage.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Place the beef strips in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow container. Pour the marinade over the beef, making sure each strip is coated. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 4: Dry the Beef
If you have a food dehydrator, arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying beef jerky. If using an oven, preheat it to the lowest temperature setting. Place the beef strips on a wire cooling rack set on a baking sheet and place it in the oven. Prop the oven door open slightly for air circulation. Cook the beef jerky for about 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness. Remember to periodically check on the beef to prevent over-drying.
Step 5: Store and Enjoy
Once the beef jerky is adequately dried, remove it from the oven or dehydrator and let it cool completely. Pat excess moisture off the jerky with a paper towel, if needed. Store the beef jerky in an airtight container or resealable bags. Properly prepared and stored homemade beef jerky can last for several weeks, but it’s so delicious that it’s often devoured long before then!
Now that you know how to make your own homemade beef jerky, go ahead and give it a try. Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to create your own unique flavors. You’ll be amazed at the taste and satisfaction of creating your very own batch of delicious and protein-packed beef jerky!