Air Fryer Beef Jerky – Page 2

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming the fat from the beef, as fat can turn rancid over time and affect the texture of your jerky. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick. For best results, slightly freeze the beef for 30 minutes to make slicing easier.

2. Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is smooth.

3. Marinate the Beef

Place the sliced beef into the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the beef and marinade to a resealable plastic bag.
Marinate the beef in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (71°C). This is a low temperature that will help dry out the beef without cooking it too fast.

5. Arrange the Beef in the Air Fryer

After marinating, remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid.
Arrange the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure the strips don’t overlap so they can cook evenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.

6. Air Fry the Beef Jerky

Set the air fryer to 160°F (71°C) and cook the beef jerky for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Check the jerky at the 1-hour mark, flipping the strips halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The jerky should be dry to the touch and slightly bend without breaking.
For a chewier texture, you can stop cooking a little earlier; for a crisper texture, leave it in for a few extra minutes.

7. Cool and Store

Once the jerky is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool completely. The jerky will firm up as it cools.
Store your homemade beef jerky in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Tips for Success

Cutting the Beef: For uniform jerky, make sure all the beef strips are cut to a similar thickness. This ensures even cooking.
Marinating: Let the beef marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor. The longer it sits, the more flavor it will absorb.
Air Fryer Variations: Every air fryer model is slightly different, so be sure to check your jerky periodically. If you find that it cooks faster, reduce the cooking time.
Add Spice: If you like your jerky on the spicy side, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or even add a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Make It Sweet: For a sweeter jerky, add extra brown sugar or even honey to the marinade.

Why This Dish Stands Out

Air Fryer Beef Jerky offers all the flavors of traditional jerky but with the convenience and speed of the air fryer. The crispy edges and chewy texture of the jerky, paired with the rich marinade, make for a deliciously satisfying snack. Plus, since you control the ingredients, you can tailor the flavors to suit your preferences and avoid preservatives.

Conclusion

Making beef jerky at home doesn’t have to be a long, complicated process. Air Fryer Beef Jerky is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious, protein-packed snack that’s both flavorful and customizable. Whether you’re snacking during a road trip, packing lunch, or just looking for a tasty treat, this homemade jerky is sure to hit the spot. Try it today and enjoy the convenience of a homemade snack that’s made just the way you like it!

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