If you love beef jerky, you’re in for a treat with this recipe. Doc’s Ultimate Beef Jerky combines savory flavors with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice to create a delicious, homemade jerky that rivals the best store-bought varieties. Here’s how you can make it at home:
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean beef (Top round, London broil, or similar cuts are ideal)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1/4 teaspoon curing salt (optional, but it helps preserve the jerky and maintain color)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
- Trim the Beef: Trim any excess fat from the beef to ensure the jerky dries properly and doesn’t become greasy. Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. For easier slicing, partially freeze the beef for about 1-2 hours until it is firm but not frozen solid.
- Slice the Beef: Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender jerky or with the grain for a chewier texture. Ensure the slices are uniform in thickness to ensure even drying.
2. Make the Marinade
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. If using, add the curing salt.
- Mix Well: Stir or shake until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.3. Marinate the Beef
- Add Beef to Marinade: Place the beef slices into the bowl or bag with the marinade. Toss or shake to ensure that all slices are thoroughly coated.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. The longer the beef marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
4. Prepare for Drying
- Preheat Oven or Dehydrator: If using an oven, preheat it to 160°F (70°C). If using a dehydrator, set it to 160°F (70°C) as well.
- Prepare the Racks: If using an oven, place a wire rack on a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the beef. This prevents the jerky from sitting in its own juices. If using a dehydrator, arrange the beef strips on the trays, ensuring they are not overlapping.
5. Dry the Beef
- Drying in Oven: Place the baking sheet with the wire rack in the preheated oven. Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Dry the beef for 4-6 hours, flipping the strips halfway through, until the jerky is dry and has a leathery texture. The jerky should bend without breaking.
- Drying in Dehydrator: Place the trays in the dehydrator and dry for 4-6 hours, flipping the strips halfway through, until the jerky is dry and has a leathery texture. Dehydrator times can vary based on the thickness of the slices and the model used.
6. Cool and Store
- Cool the Jerky: Remove the jerky from the oven or dehydrator and let it cool completely on the racks. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container.
- Store: Store the cooled jerky in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. For longer shelf life, keep it in the refrigerator or freezer. Properly dried and stored jerky can last for up to 1-2 months at room temperature, or up to 6 months in the refrigerator or freezer.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Slices: Ensure the beef slices are uniform in thickness to promote even drying.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Curing Salt: While optional, curing salt helps preserve the jerky and maintain its color. If not using curing salt, consume the jerky within a shorter time frame.
- Testing for Doneness: Test the jerky by bending a piece. It should bend without breaking and have a dry, leathery texture.
Doc’s Ultimate Beef Jerky is a flavorful and satisfying snack that’s easy to make at home. With its savory marinade and perfect drying technique, this jerky offers a delicious, protein-packed treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your homemade beef jerky as a snack on the go, a camping treat, or a delicious addition to your lunchbox
