Beef Jerkies("Very Good")
Savory beef jerky with smoky, salty flavors, perfect for camping or snacking on the go. Crispy and flavorful, suitable for outdoor adventures or quick snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Get a round steak and freeze it for about 1 hour to make slicing easier.
- Slice the beef very thinly once partially frozen.
- Marinate the beef slices in oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, salt and pepper, and garlic powder for about 24 hours.
- If using a dehydrator, place the beef strips on the screens and dehydrate for about 36 hours.
- If using a conventional oven, place the beef strips on a rack over a pan and cook at 200°F until very dry and crispy.
- Enjoy the beef jerky for camping, ball games, or other outdoor activities.
- Does not require refrigeration.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best jerky, choose a lean cut of beef, such as round steak, and slice against the grain for tenderness. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you don't have liquid smoke, you can substitute it with smoked paprika for a similar flavor. Marinating for longer than 24 hours can enhance the flavor further.
Serving Suggestions
Beef jerky makes an excellent snack for camping, ball games, or road trips. Pair it with your favorite nuts or cheese for a satisfying protein-packed snack. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing Kraut Salad Bavarian or as a topping on a hearty sandwich, like a Mater Sandwich Extrodinaire, for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store the beef jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, vacuum-sealing is ideal, as it helps to preserve freshness and flavor. If you prefer to reheat it, do so in an oven at a low temperature to maintain its texture, but it's best enjoyed at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Jerkies("Very Good") contains roughly 17 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 593mg per serving (26% 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 a different cut of meat for this jerky?
Yes, while round steak is recommended for its leanness, you can use other cuts such as flank steak or sirloin. Just ensure they are trimmed of excess fat, as fat can lead to spoilage.
How do I know when the jerky is done?
Properly dried jerky should be dark brown in color, dry to the touch, and should bend without breaking. It should not feel sticky or moist. If it cracks when bent, it may be over-dried.
Can I make jerky in a conventional oven without a dehydrator?
Absolutely! Simply place the marinated beef strips on a rack over a baking sheet and cook at 200°F. This method may take longer than a dehydrator, but it will yield delicious jerky if done correctly.
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).