How to Make the Ultimate Peppered Beef Jerky at Home

Introduction

Making your own peppered beef jerky at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein snack or a delicious addition to your trail mix, this peppered beef jerky recipe will satisfy your cravings. The combination of savory and spicy flavors makes this jerky irresistible, and best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients

To make peppered beef jerky, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of lean beef (such as flank steak)
• 1/2 cup of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste for desired spiciness)
• 1/2 teaspoon of liquid smoke (optional)

Directions

Follow these steps to create flavorful peppered beef jerky at home:

1. Begin by placing the beef in the freezer for 1-2 hours to make slicing easier.
2. Once the beef is partially frozen, slice it against the grain into thin strips, around 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and liquid smoke (if using). Mix well to create the marinade.
4. Place the beef strips into the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
5. Preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C) or the lowest setting.
6. Remove the marinated beef from the refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess marinade.
7. Arrange the beef strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow for air circulation.
8. Sprinkle additional black pepper over the beef strips for an extra peppery kick.
9. Bake the beef in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky is dry and firm, but still slightly pliable. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time.
10. Once the jerky is done, let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator.

FAQ

Can I use different cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can. While flank steak is commonly used for beef jerky, you can also use eye of round, sirloin, or any lean cuts of beef.

Is the liquid smoke necessary for this recipe?

No, the liquid smoke is optional. It adds a smoky flavor to the jerky, but the recipe will still yield delicious results without it.

How can I adjust the level of spiciness in the jerky?

To make the jerky spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the marinade. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

Can I use a dehydrator instead of the oven?

Absolutely. If you have a dehydrator, you can use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions to dry the beef jerky.

How long does this peppered beef jerky last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the jerky can last up to 2 weeks. If refrigerated, it can stay fresh for even longer.

Making peppered beef jerky at home is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and protein-packed snack. With this simple recipe, you can create mouthwatering jerky that rivals any store-bought variety. Plus, the ability to customize the level of spiciness and smokiness ensures that the jerky suits your personal taste preferences.