This peppery beef jerky is full of bold flavors that make it super tasty! It’s chewy, slightly spicy, and perfect for snacking anytime.
Whenever I make this jerky, I can’t help but sneak a piece or two while it’s cooling. It’s like a protein-packed treat that’s hard to resist!
I love how simple it is to make at home. Just marinate, dry, and enjoy! It’s great for road trips, hikes, or even just for munching while watching a movie!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Lean cuts like top round, flank steak, or sirloin work best for jerky. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey or chicken breast can provide a lighter option.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free version, use tamari, or opt for coconut aminos for a milder flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: It adds depth to the taste. If you’re out, try a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and a dash of sugar as a substitute.
Brown Sugar: For sweetness, I love brown sugar, but honey or maple syrup can also be used for a different twist.
Spices: Cracked black pepper is essential for that peppery kick. Feel free to adjust the heat with more or less crushed red pepper flakes, or add in some cayenne for extra spice!
How Do You Slice Beef for Jerky?
Slicing beef properly is crucial for tender jerky. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with partially frozen meat; this makes slicing easier and more precise.
- Trim off any visible fat, as fat can lead to spoilage.
- Cut against the grain into thin strips (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick) for maximum tenderness.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate the Beef?
Marinating is where the flavors really develop. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Mix your marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding the beef to ensure even coverage.
- Marinate the beef in the fridge for at least 6 hours or even overnight for deeper flavor.
- Make sure to seal the bag tightly to avoid spills and to allow the meat to soak up all that flavor.
How Do You Dry Jerky Without a Dehydrator?
If you don’t have a dehydrator, using your oven works great:
- Set your oven to the lowest temperature setting (160°F to 175°F). This helps prevent cooking the meat.
- Use a wire rack to allow air circulation around the meat while it dries.
- Check for doneness by bending a piece of jerky; it should be dry and not snap but still have a little give.
Enjoy creating your tasty peppery beef jerky—the perfect snack anytime!
How to Make Peppery Beef Jerky
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds lean beef (top round, flank steak, or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of active prep time, followed by marinating for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. Then, you’ll need around 4-6 hours for drying in your oven or dehydrator. So, total time can extend to about 10 hours including marinating and drying time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the beef, as fat can spoil the jerky. Slice the beef thinly, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, and always slice against the grain. This will help the jerky to be more tender and easier to chew!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, gather the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, cracked black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika (if you want a little smokiness), and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed to create a delicious marinade.
3. Marinate the Beef:
Take the sliced beef and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, sealing the bag or covering the dish tightly. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, and even better if you can leave it overnight! This will let all those tasty flavors soak into the meat.
4. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to start drying the meat, preheat your oven to its lowest setting, typically between 160°F to 175°F (70°C to 80°C). If you’re using a dehydrator, just prepare that according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Arrange the Beef for Drying:
Take the beef out of the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Arrange the slices in a single layer on wire racks set over baking sheets or directly on dehydrator trays. It’s important that the pieces don’t overlap so they can dry evenly.
6. Dry the Beef:
Place the trays in the oven or dehydrator. Dry the beef for about 4 to 6 hours, checking on it occasionally. It’s done when the jerky feels dry and firm but has some bend without breaking. You don’t want it to be too brittle!
7. Cool and Store:
Once done, let the jerky cool completely. After it cools, store it in airtight containers or resealable bags. Properly dried jerky can last for weeks or even months if stored correctly!
8. Enjoy Your Snack!
Your delicious and peppery beef jerky is ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for trips, parties, or just snacking at home. Enjoy the chewy goodness!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for Jerky?
Absolutely! While beef is popular, you can use turkey, chicken, or even venison. Just make sure to slice it thinly and adjust drying times as needed based on the thickness of the meat.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes! If you prefer milder jerky, you can reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For extra heat, try adding more cracked black pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
How Should I Store the Jerky?
Store your jerky in an airtight container or resealable bag in a cool, dry place. If properly dried, it should last for several weeks at room temperature and can last even longer if refrigerated or frozen.
Can I Make This Jerky in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can use an air fryer to make jerky! Set the air fryer to a low temperature, usually around 160°F to 180°F (70°C to 80°C), and cook for 2-4 hours, checking for doneness as it cooks. Just be mindful of not overcrowding the air fryer basket!
