Doc’s Best Beef Jerky is a savory, flavorful snack that’s perfect for those who love a meaty, smoky treat. This homemade jerky recipe is simple to prepare and is made with a delicious marinade that infuses the beef with rich flavor.
📋 Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
🍯 1/2 cup soy sauce
🍯 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
🍚 1 tbsp brown sugar
🌿 1 tsp garlic powder
🌿 1 tsp onion powder
🌿 1 tsp smoked paprika
🌶️ 1 tsp black pepper
🌶️ 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
🌰 1 tsp liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness)
🍯 1/4 cup honey (optional, for a sweeter jerky)
For the Jerky:
🥩 2 lbs lean beef (top round, bottom round, or flank steak), thinly sliced against the grain
📝 Directions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Slice the Beef: 🥩 Place the beef in the freezer for about 1-2 hours to firm it up, making it easier to slice. Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, against the grain for a more tender jerky.
- Make the Marinade:
- Mix the Ingredients: 🍯 In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), liquid smoke (if using), and honey (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Marinate the Beef:
- Marinate: 🥩 Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring all the pieces are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the beef to absorb the flavors.
- Dry the Beef:
- Preheat the Oven or Dehydrator: 🔥 Preheat your oven to 170°F (75°C) or set your dehydrator to 160°F (70°C).
- Arrange the Beef: 🥩 Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Arrange the beef slices in a single layer on wire racks set over baking sheets (if using the oven) or on dehydrator trays. Make sure the slices are not overlapping.
- Dry the Jerky:
- Oven Method: 🍂 Place the racks in the oven and prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape. Dry the jerky for 4-6 hours, or until it is dry but still pliable.
- Dehydrator Method: 🍂 Dry the jerky in the dehydrator for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired texture.
- Store and Serve:
- Store: 🥩 Once the jerky is fully dried, remove it from the oven or dehydrator and let it cool completely. Store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Serve: 🍽️ Enjoy your homemade Doc’s Best Beef Jerky as a tasty, protein-packed snack!
🍽 Serve:
Enjoy your savory and flavorful Doc’s Best Beef Jerky, perfect for on-the-go snacking or sharing with friends!
⏱ Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
⏱ Drying Time: 4-6 hours
⏱ Total Time: 6-8 hours
🍽 Servings: Varies based on thickness and size of slices
🔥 Calories: 150 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- For a spicier jerky, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- For different flavor variations, try adding soy sauce alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos, or experiment with different spices.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Doc’s Best Beef Jerky! 🥩✨