Beef jerky is a high-protein, savory snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. With an air fryer, you can make this delicious treat at home, saving time and avoiding unnecessary preservatives found in store-bought versions. This method ensures a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and convenience, making it ideal for snack lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) lean beef (e.g., top round, flank steak, or sirloin)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marination Time: 6–8 hours (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours
- Total Time: ~9 hours
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Place the beef in the freezer for 30 minutes to make it easier to slice thinly.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the beef into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick), cutting against the grain for a tender texture.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Mix well.
- Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 6–8 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (70°C) or the lowest setting available.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Dehydrate the Beef
- Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Cook for 2–3 hours, flipping the strips halfway through. Check periodically to ensure they do not overcook. The jerky is ready when it is dry but still slightly pliable.
Step 5: Cool and Store
- Allow the beef jerky to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Tips
- Choose Lean Meat: Avoid fatty cuts, as fat can spoil the jerky over time.
- Consistent Slicing: Use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to ensure even slices for uniform cooking.
- Flavor Variations: Add honey for sweetness or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Storage: Use vacuum-sealed bags for the longest shelf life.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 10 servings)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
Making beef jerky in an air fryer is a game-changer. This method is not only quicker than traditional drying techniques but also yields perfectly chewy and flavorful results. Whether you’re preparing snacks for a road trip, a hike, or just to enjoy at home, air fryer beef jerky is sure to become your go-to recipe. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a healthy, preservative-free snack tailored to your taste!