How to Make Delicious Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Do you love the taste of smoky and chewy beef jerky but don’t want to spend a fortune purchasing it from the store? Well, the good news is that you can easily make beef jerky in a dehydrator – and it’s surprisingly simple to do. With just a handful of ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy delicious and homemade beef jerky anytime you crave it.

Beef jerky is a protein-rich snack that is perfect for outdoor activities, hiking, or even as a midday snack at work. Not only is it delicious, but it is also a healthier option as it is low in carbs and fat. By making it yourself, you can customize the flavor and experiment with different seasonings – ensuring your jerky is tailored to your taste buds. So, dust off your dehydrator and get ready to make a batch of your own beef jerky.

Section: How to Make Beef Jerky in Dehydrator

Beef jerky is a high-protein snack that is easy to make in a dehydrator. It’s a great way to satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet healthy. In this section, we’ll go through the step-by-step process of making beef jerky in a dehydrator.

Ingredients for Beef Jerky

Before we start making the beef jerky, let’s take stock of what we need. Here are the ingredients you will need to make beef jerky:
– 1 kg of beef (preferably top or bottom round cuts)
– 1 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of liquid smoke (optional)

Slicing the Beef

The first step in making beef jerky is to slice the beef. Use a sharp knife to remove any visible fat from the beef and slice it into thin, even strips. Make sure that all the pieces are of uniform size so that they dry out evenly.

Preparing the Marinade

Next, it’s time to prepare the marinade. In a large bowl, combine the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and liquid smoke (if using). Mix the ingredients well until everything is evenly combined.

Add the Beef to the Marinade

Add the beef strips to the marinade and mix well to ensure that each strip is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). This step is important, as it will allow the beef to absorb the flavors of the marinade.

Preparing the Dehydrator

When you’re ready to start drying the beef, take your dehydrator and prepare it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Removing the Beef from the Marinade

Remove the beef strips from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Place the beef strips on the racks of the dehydrator and ensure that there is enough space between the strips for air to circulate.

Drying the Beef Jerky

Turn on the dehydrator and set it to between 65-75°C. Depending on the thickness of the beef strips, the drying process can take anywhere from 4-12 hours. During this time, turn the strips over occasionally to ensure that they dry evenly. You will know the jerky is ready when it’s dry, tough, and chewy.

Storing the Beef Jerky

When the beef jerky is fully dry, remove it from the dehydrator and let it cool completely. Store the beef jerky in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, store the beef jerky in the refrigerator or freezer.

Tips for Making Perfect Beef Jerky

– Use lean cuts of meat.
– Slice the beef uniformly.
– Marinate the beef for at least 2 hours.
– Preheat your dehydrator before using it.
– Turn the strips over occasionally to ensure even drying.
– Store the beef jerky in an airtight container or bag to keep it fresh.

The Bottom Line

Making beef jerky is easy and takes only a few simple steps. With the right ingredients and a good dehydrator, you can make delicious and healthy beef jerky at home. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

Preparing the Meat for Jerky Making

Jerky is a great snack that you can munch on during your outdoor activities or enjoy as a snack at home. It is also a protein-rich snack that is perfect for fitness enthusiasts and athletes. Making jerky can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you do it yourself. In this section of the article, we will discuss the steps on how to prepare the meat for jerky making.

Choosing the Meat

The first step in preparing the meat for jerky making is choosing the right cut. The best meat for jerky is the lean meat as it dries faster and results in a better texture. Beef cuts like sirloin or flank steak are the ideal choices for making jerky. You can also use other meats such as venison, buffalo, or elk. The key is to choose a cut that is low in fat.

Slicing the Meat

Once you have chosen the cut, the next step is to slice the meat into thin, even strips. You can do this using a sharp knife or a meat slicer. If you are using a knife, make sure it is sharp to ensure the slices are even and thin. The thickness of the strips should be around ⅛ to ¼ inches. You can cut the meat with the grain for a chewier jerky or against the grain for a more tender jerky.

Marinating the Meat

After slicing the meat, the next step is to marinate it. Marinating the meat will not only add flavor but will also help tenderize it. You can use any marinade you like, but soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and teriyaki sauce are popular choices. You can also add spices like pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder to the marinade. Make sure to let the meat soak in the marinade for at least 4 hours or overnight to absorb the flavors.

Draining the Meat

Once the meat is done marinating, the next step is to drain the excess marinade. You can do this by using a colander or simply patting the meat dry with a paper towel. Removing the excess marinade will prevent the jerky from being too salty and will also help it dry faster.

Applying the Seasoning

After draining the excess marinade, you can apply extra seasoning to the meat. You can use any seasoning blend you like, but some popular choices include black pepper, red pepper flakes, and cumin. Make sure to evenly coat the meat with the seasoning to ensure a consistent flavor.

Using a Dehydrator

The best way to make jerky is by using a dehydrator. A dehydrator is a kitchen appliance that removes the moisture from the meat, making it dry and chewy. Follow the instructions on your dehydrator on how to set the temperature and how long to dry the meat. Usually, it takes around 6-8 hours to fully dry the jerky.

Using an Oven

If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can also make jerky using an oven. Preheat your oven to 160°F and place the meat on a wire rack. Make sure the meat does not overlap. Bake the meat for around 4-6 hours, depending on the thickness of the meat.

Checking for Doneness

Once the meat has been drying for the recommended amount of time, the next step is to check if it is done. You can do this by snapping a piece of jerky in half. If it bends without breaking, it needs more drying time. If it breaks easily, it is ready.

Cooling and Storing

After the jerky is done, the next step is to let it cool down before storing it. You can store the jerky in an airtight container or zip lock bag in a cool, dry place. Jerky can last for several months if stored properly, so make sure to enjoy it as a snack anytime you want.

Experimenting with Flavors

Making jerky is all about experimenting with flavors. You can try different marinades, seasoning blends, and even different meat cuts to find your favorite flavor. Jerky making is also a great way to get creative in the kitchen and try out new recipes, so don’t be afraid to explore different flavors and techniques.

Seasoning your Jerky

Now that you have your beef sliced and ready to go, it’s time to season it to create a flavor explosion. Here are a few subheadings to help guide you through the seasoning process:

1. Choose the Right Seasoning Blend

Choosing the right seasoning blend for your beef jerky will depend on your taste preference. You can buy pre-packaged seasoning packets from the store or create your own blend using a variety of spices. Here is a table of some common spices and the flavors they bring to the table:

2. Marinade your Beef

To achieve a deeper flavor, you can marinate your beef overnight. This will also help tenderize the meat. You can use a pre-packaged marinade or create your own using soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, and brown sugar. Make sure you evenly coat the beef strips with the marinade and let it soak in the fridge for at least 8 hours.

3. Dry Rub Method

If you want a bolder taste, try the dry rub method. Mix your spices together in a bowl, then coat the beef jerky strips with the rub. Let the beef sit with the dry rub for at least an hour before dehydrating.

4. Adding Liquid Smoke

If you’re looking for a smokier flavor, adding liquid smoke to your marinade or dry rub mixture is a great option. It will give the beef a natural smoky flavor without having to use a smoker.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment

Remember, when it comes to seasoning your beef jerky, there are no rules. Don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors to create your own unique blend. Just be sure to take notes on what you used so you can recreate the deliciousness next time!

Happy Jerky Making!

Now that you know how to make your own beef jerky using your dehydrator, it’s time to get started! Experiment with different marinades and spices to find your own signature flavor. Thank you for taking the time to read through this article. We hope that it has provided you with helpful tips and tricks. Be sure to visit our website for more articles on food, cooking, and other fun topics. Happy jerky making, and we’ll see you again soon!