If you love the taste of homemade beef jerky but don't have a dehydrator, fear not! It is possible to make delicious, fresh jerky right in your own kitchen without the need for special equipment.
First, start with high-quality meat. Look for cuts of beef that are lean and have a good amount of protein, such as sirloin, round, or flank steak. Trim off any excess fat and slice the meat into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
Next, create a marinade for your jerky. This can be as simple as a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and your choice of spices, or you can get creative and try out different marinade recipes. Place the meat strips in a large sealable bag and pour the marinade over top, making sure to coat all of the meat. Let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated meat strips in a single layer. Bake the jerky in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until it is dry and slightly chewy. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your meat strips, so be sure to check on your jerky periodically.
Once your jerky is cooked to your desired level of dryness, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. Store the jerky in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for up to a month.
Making homemade jerky without a dehydrator may take a little longer, but the result is a fresh and delicious snack that you can feel good about eating. If you want to try some high-quality, fresh homemade style beef jerky, be sure to check out mfjerky.com. Their selection of delicious flavors is sure to satisfy your craving for jerky.