Delicious Homemade Beef Jerky Recipe

Satisfy your cravings with this homemade beef jerky recipe. Made with tender cuts of beef and a flavorful marinade, this jerky is perfect for snacking on the go or serving as a protein-packed snack. Follow the easy steps below to create your own delicious beef jerky in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of lean beef (such as sirloin or flank steak)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice

Directions

1. Start by trimming any visible fat from the beef and slicing it into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
2. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke. Mix well to dissolve the sugar and evenly distribute the flavors.
3. Place the beef strips in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring that all strips are coated evenly. If desired, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for added spiciness. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Make sure the foil is slightly elevated to allow air circulation.
5. Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange the strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even drying.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. This helps in achieving a drier and more chewy texture. Let the beef strips dry for 4-6 hours, or until they are firm and no longer moist. The drying time may vary depending on thickness and desired texture.
7. Once the beef jerky is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Homemade beef jerky can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, although it's unlikely to last that long!
8. Enjoy your mouthwatering homemade beef jerky as a delicious and nutritious snack.

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