If you're a fan of beef jerky, you know that it can be expensive to buy in stores, and it can also contain preservatives and additives that you might not want to consume. That's why making your own jerky at home can be a great option – not only can you control the ingredients and flavors, but it can also save you money in the long run.
At mfjerky.com, we specialize in homemade style beef jerky, as well as a variety of other tasty treats like candy, snack sticks, coffee, jam, and even dog treats. But today, we're going to focus on how to make your own delicious jerky at home.
To get started, you'll need a few supplies:
- Meat slicer or sharp knife
- Jerky gun (optional)
- Dehydrator or oven
- Baking sheet and parchment paper (if using oven)
- Ziploc bag or resealable container
Once you have your supplies ready, it's time to start preparing the meat. Choose a lean cut of beef, such as top round or sirloin, and slice it into thin strips about ¼ inch thick. If you have a jerky gun, you can use it to form the meat into even strips before dehydrating or baking.
Next, prepare the marinade. There are endless flavor possibilities for homemade jerky, but here is a basic recipe to get you started:
- 1 cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl or Ziploc bag. Add the sliced meat to the marinade and mix well to coat all of the strips. Marinate the meat in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Once the meat has marinated, it's time to dehydrate or bake. If using a dehydrator, follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying jerky. If using an oven, preheat to 175°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the meat strips on the baking sheet, leaving space between each strip. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the jerky is dry and firm to the touch.
Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing in a resealable container or Ziploc bag. Homemade jerky will last for several weeks if stored in a cool, dry place.
Making your own jerky at home is a fun and rewarding activity, and it's also a great way to control the ingredients and flavors of your snack. Plus, it can save you money in the long run. If you're looking for more inspiration or want to try our jerky, be sure to check out mfjerky.com – Happy snacking!