Savour the Old West with Wild Bills Beef Jerky Recipe

Introduction

Transport yourself back to the rugged days of the Old West by crafting your own delicious Wild Bills beef jerky. This homemade snack is perfect for satisfying your cravings and can be easily made with a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you’re a jerky enthusiast or just looking for a flavorful and protein-packed treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

To prepare Wild Bills beef jerky, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 2 pounds of lean beef (such as sirloin or flank steak)
– 1/2 cup of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke
– 2 teaspoons of onion powder
– 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar

Directions

Follow these steps to create your tasty Wild Bills beef jerky:

1. **Prepare the beef:** Begin by placing the beef in the freezer for about 1-2 hours to partially freeze. This makes it easier to slice thinly and evenly.

2. **Slice the beef:** After the beef has partially frozen, take it out and slice it into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. It’s important to cut against the grain for a tender chew.

3. **Marinate the beef:** In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. Mix well to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved. Place the beef strips in the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight.

4. **Dehydrate the beef:** Preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C) or the lowest setting. Place the marinated beef strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky is dry and firm, yet still slightly pliable. Alternatively, you can use a food dehydrator according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. **Store the jerky:** Once the jerky has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or ziplock bag. Properly dried jerky can be stored at room temperature for 1-2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

FAQ

**Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?**
A: While this recipe specifically calls for beef, you can certainly experiment with other lean meats such as turkey, chicken, or even venison. Just ensure the meat is sliced thinly and consistently for best results.

**Q: Is it necessary to use liquid smoke in the marinade?**
A: Liquid smoke adds a delightful smoky flavor to the jerky, reminiscent of traditional cooking methods. However, if you prefer to omit it, the jerky will still turn out wonderfully flavorful from the other seasonings.

**Q: How can I adjust the level of spiciness in the jerky?**
A: The cayenne pepper is responsible for the heat in this recipe. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences. You can also omit the cayenne pepper altogether if you prefer a non-spicy version.

**Q: Can I make a larger batch of jerky with this recipe?**
A: Absolutely! Simply scale the ingredients accordingly if you wish to make a larger quantity of jerky. Just ensure you have enough space in your oven or dehydrator to accommodate the additional strips of beef.

**Q: Can I add additional seasonings to the marinade?**
A: Yes, the beauty of making homemade jerky is the ability to tailor the flavors to your liking. Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings, such as chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of hot sauce, to create your own unique blend.

Now that you have the recipe for Wild Bills beef jerky, it’s time to gather your ingredients and embark on a jerky-making adventure. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or looking to add your own twist, this homemade jerky is sure to delight your taste buds and provide a satisfying snack for any occasion.