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Nancy's Beef Jerky

This recipe is a family favorite. Even to this day, my 33-year-old daughter says that was the best beef jerky she ever had. I have it on my list to make when round steak is on sale.
Course Snack
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Dehydrator
  • Sharp Knife
  • Glass container or Ziplock closure bags
  • Liquid measurer
  • Measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pounds of round steak 1-1 1/2 inches thick
  • 4 teaspoons liquid smoke
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 Teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup soy sauce

Instructions
 

  • Trim all visible fat from meat. Partially freeze to make slicing easier. Slice with the grain 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide and 4 to 12 inches long.
  • Combine all remaining ingredients. Mix with beef strips place in either a glass dish or use gallon ziplock bags. Refrigerate 8 hours or overnight.
  • Lay beef strips in single layers on the dehydrator rack. Follow your manufactor's directions.
  • Dry until the desired leathery jerky texture. Dry time will vary. My Ronco 5 tray food dehydrator could take 1-2 days, but go by how leathery jerky texture you want.
  • With a papertowel blot any drops of oil from the jerky.
  • Place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator or freezer.

Notes

  • If you do not have a dehydrator, lay beef strips in single layers on oven racks with cookie sheets or something to catch the drippings. Bake at 140-150F for 10-15 hours or until desired leathery jerky texture.
  • If you have a vacuum sealer, it will remove the air and create an airtight seal, which helps preserve the jerky.
Keyword Dried and Cured, Portable and high protein snack