The Complete Guide to Making Beef Jerky at Home

beef

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: pork

Turkey is leaner, while pork is often less expensive.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: tamari

💰Cheaper: coconut aminos

Tamari is gluten-free, while coconut aminos is lower in sodium.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index.

liquid smoke

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: smoked salt

Smoked paprika adds flavor without liquid.

Slice beef into thin strips against the grain, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.

Freeze the meat for 20-30 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut.

Marinate the sliced beef in a mixture of 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and 1/3 cup maple syrup for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Remove beef from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.

Arrange beef strips in a single layer on baking sheets.

Preheat the oven to 160°F (70°C).

Bake for 4-6 hours, checking periodically until jerky is dry and firm.

Let jerky cool completely before storing.

Store in an airtight container.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens