How to make beef jerky in a dehydrator?

By HotBotUpdated: August 30, 2024

Answer

How to Make Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

Introduction to Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is a popular snack that has been enjoyed for centuries due to its portability, long shelf life, and rich flavor. Making beef jerky at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and tastier product. One of the most efficient methods for creating beef jerky is using a food dehydrator. This guide will walk you through each step to achieve perfect beef jerky.

Selecting the Right Cut of Beef

Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for making high-quality jerky. Opt for lean cuts to minimize fat content, which can cause spoilage. Popular choices include:

Top Round: Known for its lean texture and affordable price.
Bottom Round: Slightly tougher than top round but still a great choice.
Eye of Round: Very lean and often preferred for jerky.
Sirloin Tip: A bit more expensive but tender and flavorful.

Preparing the Beef

Once you have your beef, the next step is preparation:

Start

Trim the Fat: Remove any visible fat from the beef as fat does not dehydrate well and can cause the jerky to spoil.
Freeze the Beef: Partially freeze the meat for about 1-2 hours to make slicing easier.
Slice the Beef: Using a sharp knife, slice the beef into strips about 1/4 inch thick. You can cut with or against the grain; against the grain will result in a more tender jerky, while with the grain will be chewier.

Marinating the Beef

Marinating the beef adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Here’s a basic marinade recipe:

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Optional: 1 teaspoon liquid smoke for additional smoky flavor

Steps to Marinate:

Combine Ingredients: Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until the sugar is dissolved.
Marinate Beef: Place the sliced beef in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass container. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
Refrigerate: Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Dehydrating the Beef

After marinating, it's time to dehydrate the beef:

Drain the Marinade: Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid.
Arrange on Dehydrator Trays: Lay the beef strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, making sure they do not overlap.
Set Dehydrator Temperature: Set your dehydrator to 160°F (71°C), which is the recommended temperature for drying meat safely. Some dehydrators may have a specific setting for jerky.
Dehydrate: Allow the beef to dehydrate for about 4-8 hours. The drying time can vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the specific dehydrator model. Check periodically for desired texture; the jerky should be dry and leathery but still slightly pliable.

Testing for Doneness

To ensure your jerky is properly dried:

Bend Test: Take a piece of jerky and bend it gently. It should not snap in half but should crack slightly. If it snaps, it might be too dry.
Feel Test: The surface should feel dry and not greasy. If it feels sticky or moist, it needs more time in the dehydrator.
Color Test: The color should be a consistent brown throughout without any pink or red spots, indicating it is fully dried.

Storing Beef Jerky

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and shelf life of your homemade beef jerky:

Cool Completely: Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can lead to mold growth.
Storage Options: Store jerky in airtight containers, vacuum-sealed bags, or resealable plastic bags. For long-term storage, consider vacuum sealing.
Refrigeration: While beef jerky can be stored at room temperature, refrigeration can extend its shelf life. It can last up to 1-2 months in the refrigerator and up to 6 months in the freezer.

Flavor Variations and Tips

Experimenting with different flavors can make your jerky unique:

Spicy Jerky: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.
Sweet Jerky: Include honey, maple syrup, or extra brown sugar for a sweeter profile.
Teriyaki Jerky: Use a teriyaki sauce base, adding ginger and sesame oil for an Asian twist.
Smoky Jerky: Incorporate liquid smoke or smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor.

As you develop your jerky-making skills, you will discover the perfect balance of flavors and textures that suit your taste. Each batch offers an opportunity to refine your technique and experiment with new ingredients. The process of making beef jerky in a dehydrator is both an art and a science, rewarding you with a delicious, homemade snack that is both nutritious and satisfying.