Beef Jerky

Description

Homemade Beef Jerky is a classic favorite that's perfect for a high-protein, low-carb snacking option. This recipe takes you through the simple steps to create flavorful, tender beef jerky right at home. Using basic ingredients and spices, you can make a snack that's not only delicious but also free from the preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef (top round or bottom round), thinly sliced (16 oz or 450g)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (2 oz or 60ml)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (1 oz or 30ml)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (0.5 oz or 15g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Instructions

1. Begin by trimming any fat from the beef and slicing it into thin strips. If slicing is challenging, partially freeze the beef to firm it up.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to create the marinade.
3. Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for more robust flavor.
4. Preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C) or use a dehydrator set to the same temperature. Place the marinated beef strips on a baking rack over a baking sheet to catch drips.
5. Bake or dehydrate for 3 to 4 hours, or until the beef jerky is dry and leathery. Be sure to flip the beef strips halfway through to ensure even drying.
6. Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep for several weeks.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 oz):
Calories: 70
Protein: 11g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g

Health Benefits

Beef jerky is an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for muscle building and repair. The low-fat content makes it an ideal snack for weight management and fitness enthusiasts. Additionally, this homemade version is lower in sodium and free from the artificial preservatives typical of commercial jerky, making it a healthier choice for maintaining overall wellness.