Unlock the full potential of your dehydrator with The Ultimate Guide to Dehydrator Recipes! This comprehensive ebook is your go-to resource for crafting delicious, healthy, and long-lasting snacks and meals. Buy it Now!
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Ready to get started with dehydrator beef jerky recipes? Making your own jerky at home is fun and rewarding and healthier than store bought. With a food dehydrator you can make many different jerky flavors and customize each batch to your taste. From classic beef jerky to crazy and spicy marinades these dehydrator jerky recipes will show you how to make the perfect snack for any occasion.
Ever bit into a piece of jerky and thought, hmm, this doesn’t taste good? Probably not.
The meat’s flavor comes through even if the spices aren’t stepping up. But when you bite into a piece of jerky that’s both flavorful meat wise and spiced to perfection, it’s almost worth paying the price of store-bought jerky.
Almost. You know what’s cheaper and healthier than those bags of $6 jerky? Making your own. These dehydrator jerky recipes will show you all the ropes.
Making jerky in the dehydrator is a fun and easy kitchen project that produces amazing results. With a food dehydrator, you can control the drying process to get your jerky just right.
Homemade beef jerky is the perfect snack, packed with protein and portable. Whether you’re going for a hike or just need a quick bite, this healthy snack is convenient and delicious.
Using a dehydrator is the easiest and best way to make tender and smoky beef jerky. The even heat distribution ensures every piece is dried to perfection, getting all the flavor of your marinade and spices.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat for Homemade Beef Jerky: Flank Steak
Use lean cuts like London Broil and Bottom Round. These are the best for homemade beef jerky because they have very little fat which helps to get that perfect tender texture.
Flank steak if you want a flavorful option. This cut is lean and adds to the flavor of your homemade jerky, great for those who like a little extra flavor.
Choose a lean cut and not fatty. Fat can spoil the jerky faster so choosing lean meat ensures your homemade beef jerky stays fresh longer and has a more tender texture.
Use top round steak which is from the back of the cow. This cut is lean and super tender, great for those who want to make chewy jerky with a soft bite.
For those who want to make beef jerky at home, aim for tender lean cuts of meat like brisket, round, sirloin tip or flank steak. These cuts give the best balance of flavor and texture, so your jerky is both tasty and satisfying.
Preparing the Meat for Dehydrating
Slicing and Trimming
Slice the beef into thin strips, about ¼ to ⅛-inch thick. For easier slicing, freeze the meat first. This adds a bit of structure and makes it more manageable to cut with a sharp knife.
Go to your local butcher and ask them to slice the beef for you. This will give you uniform slices which is perfect for making tender beef jerky.
If you want to slice the beef yourself at home, make sure each slice is no thicker than ¼ to ⅛-inch. This consistency will help the beef dry evenly and get properly dried jerky.
How do you want your jerky to be? Slice the meat against the grain for softer, more tender jerky or with the grain for chewier, tougher jerky. This will affect the final texture and chewiness of your homemade beef jerky.
Dehydrator Settings and Temperature
When it comes to making homemade beef jerky in a dehydrator, the temperature and settings are crucial for achieving tender and flavorful results. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Temperature: The ideal temperature for dehydrating beef jerky is between 155°F (68°C) and 165°F (74°C). This temperature range ensures even drying and helps to prevent bacterial growth, making your homemade jerky safe to eat.
Dehydrator Settings: Most dehydrators come with multiple temperature settings and timer options. For making beef jerky, you can use the following settings:
Temperature: 155°F (68°C) – 165°F (74°C)
Time: 3-4 hours for thin slices, 4-6 hours for thicker slices
Monitoring the Temperature: It’s essential to monitor the temperature of your dehydrator to ensure that it’s within the recommended range. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, especially if your dehydrator doesn’t have a built-in thermometer.
Adjusting the Temperature: If you find that your beef jerky is not drying evenly or is too chewy, you can adjust the temperature and time settings accordingly. For example, if you prefer a more tender jerky, you can reduce the temperature to 150°F (65°C) and increase the time to 5-6 hours.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve perfectly cooked homemade beef jerky that’s tender, flavorful, and safe to eat. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific dehydrator model, and happy snacking!
Food Dehydrator Jerky Recipes
Recipe 1: Sweet Soy
Yes, it’s true. This recipe from TheStreet calls for coca cola. Learn why below.
Your first step is to buy the right kind of meat. Then you want to stick the meat in the freezer for about an hour, while you make the marinade.
You don’t want it to freeze through, but you want it to have some structure for slicing.
Combine everything in the bowl and throw your cut meat strips in. Let it soak for as long as you have – at least 3 or 4 hours.
Follow the instructions that came with your dehydrator to cook them.
#2 Chili Lime Brine Marinade
Want something a little spicy but not too hot for the kids? This is a flavorful marinade anyone can make – though you will need fire cider. The marinade ingredients are essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
Follow the same instructions as above, with the freezing of the meat and the longer marinade. Dehydrate the marinated pieces for the proper amount of time and enjoy!
#3 Java Jerky
Want something with a different kind of kick – like the coffee kind? This sweet but java flavored jerky is delicious and an out-of-the-box treat.
Combine all the ingredients and marinate – save for the black pepper. Don’t add that to the meat until you’re putting it on the dehydrator trays.
Then, let it dry and enjoy!
Tips and Variations for Beef Jerky
Making killer beef jerky gives you full control over the ingredients so every bite is free from the unknown additives and preservatives found in store bought ones. So you can snack healthy with confidence knowing what’s in it.
With a dehydrator you can make jerky that’s even better than the most expensive store bought ones, even the ones from high end butcher shops. You have the ability to customize flavors and textures so you can create a truly unique and better jerky experience.
Try making different flavors of jerky like teriyaki beef jerky or sweet & spicy beef jerky. This will allow you to cater to your taste and add variety to your snack options, so every batch of homemade jerky is an adventure.
Check the jerky for doneness at around 4 hours, then every 30 minutes.
Keeping the meat refrigerated while marinating is essential to avoid spoilage.
It is advisable to remove excess fat from the beef before dehydrating to prolong shelf life.
Homemade jerky should crack when bent but not break to indicate doneness.
Storing and Serving Homemade Jerky
To store homemade beef jerky, put it in an airtight container or vacuum seal it. Unlike store bought beef jerky, this will keep your jerky fresh and flavorful for longer.
When properly dried and packaged, homemade beef jerky can last for different periods of time depending on storage. At room temperature it will last about a week. In an airtight container it will last up to a month, refrigeration will extend the shelf life to 3-6 months. Vacuum seal it and store it in the freezer for the longest preservation and it will last up to a year.
Making beef jerky in a food dehydrator is a fun and easy project in the kitchen that turns out great. With a dehydrator you can control the time and temperature so each batch of homemade beef jerky is perfect. It’s simple so it’s good for beginners and experienced cooks. And there’s something so cool about making your own jerky from scratch and knowing what’s in it.
With the right cut of meat, preparation and seasoning you can make tender and flavorful homemade beef jerky. Choosing lean cuts like flank steak, round roast or sirloin tip is key to tender texture. Marinating the meat with a mix of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder and other spices will give it rich flavor. Don’t forget to slice the beef thinly and evenly so it dehydrates evenly and turns out perfect jerky.
Try different flavors and seasonings to find your favorite homemade beef jerky recipe. Try a teriyaki beef jerky marinade by adding soy sauce, brown sugar and sesame oil for a sweet and savory twist. If you like a little heat add cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to your marinade. The possibilities are endless so you can customize your jerky to your taste. Whether you like classic savory or unique flavors making your own jerky is a culinary adventure.
Beef jerky takes about 4-6 hours to dehydrate in a food dehydrator. Monitor the process closely as the time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the dehydrator model you are using. Make sure the jerky is properly dried to keep the flavor and texture.
What temperature do you dehydrate beef jerky in a dehydrator?
How do you know when beef jerky is done dehydrating?
You can tell when homemade beef jerky is done dehydrating when it becomes pliable and gummy. Test a piece by bending it gently; it should not break but should show slight resistance. This texture means the jerky is properly dried so it’s chewy and flavorful.
Does beef jerky need to be refrigerated?
While commercial beef jerky doesn’t need refrigeration, it’s best to store homemade jerky in the fridge after opening. This will help preserve the freshness and flavor of your homemade jerky, extend its shelf life and make it safe to eat.
DannyContent Writer
Hey there, since 2016, my mission has been to provide you with the information and guides you need to make food dehydrating simple and fun. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, my site offers helpful guides, reviews, and recipes to enhance your dehydrating experience. I take pride in only recommending products I believe in, ensuring my readers' trust. As an affiliate of various programs, including Amazon Associates, your support helps me continue providing quality content. Thanks for stopping by, and happy dehydrating!
