All-Natural Beef Jerky
Tender, flavorful beef jerky with a smoky, savory profile, perfect for snacking or outdoor adventures. Made with simple, all-natural ingredients for a healthy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim off all fat from one round steak.
- Cut meat into thin strips and place in oblong pan.
- Combine soy sauce, salt, pepper, chopped onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, and hot sauce in a saucepan.
- Bring mixture to boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cool the mixture and pour over the meat through a strainer.
- Let sit in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours.
- Remove marinated pieces and lay across a broiling pan.
- Put strips into a cold oven and set the temperature at 125°F.
- Dry meat in the oven for 10 to 12 hours.
- Store in a covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, try marinating the beef jerky overnight instead of the minimum of 8 hours. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade. You can also substitute round steak with flank steak for a leaner option. Experiment with different hot sauces for varying heat levels.
Serving Suggestions
Serve beef jerky as a protein-packed snack on its own or pair it with cheese and crackers for a savory platter. It also complements beer or can be added to salads for extra flavor. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside dishes like Cheddarburger Loaf or American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, vacuum-seal the jerky and freeze it for up to 6 months. To reheat, place the jerky in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes or enjoy it cold as a delicious snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of All-Natural Beef Jerky contains roughly 112 calories, with 7g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1079mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of beef for this jerky recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as flank steak or sirloin. Just ensure the cut is lean with minimal fat for the best results. Lean cuts will dry out properly and enhance the jerky's texture and flavor.
How can I make this jerky spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more hot sauce to the marinade or include red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the quantities to your preferred heat level, and taste the marinade before applying it to the meat.
Is it necessary to use a strainer when pouring the marinade over the meat?
Using a strainer helps remove large pieces of onion and garlic, ensuring a smoother coating on the meat. This step also prevents these solids from burning during the drying process, which can affect the flavor of your jerky.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).