Are you a fan of beef jerky snack sticks but tired of constantly having to purchase them from the store? Why not try making your own at home? It may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and ingredients, homemade beef jerky snack sticks are easy to make and taste even better than store-bought ones. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your snack and being able to customize the flavors to your liking.
To get started, you'll need a few essential tools: a dehydrator or oven, a sharp knife, and a meat tenderizer. For the meat, it's best to use lean cuts such as eye of round, sirloin, or flank steak. Trim off any excess fat and slice the meat into thin, even strips using the sharp knife. Then, use the meat tenderizer to pound the strips until they are about ¼ inch thick. This will help to ensure that the jerky is tender and easy to chew.
Next, it's time to create the marinade. Combine your choice of seasonings, such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and any desired spices, in a large bowl. Mix well and add the meat strips, making sure to coat them evenly. Allow the meat to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Once the meat has finished marinating, it's time to dehydrate or bake. If using a dehydrator, follow the manufacturer's instructions and place the meat strips on the trays in a single layer. Dehydrate at 160°F for 6-8 hours or until the jerky is dry and slightly chewy. If using an oven, preheat to 160°F and place the meat strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 4-6 hours or until the jerky is dry and slightly chewy.
Once the beef jerky snack sticks are finished, allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or can be frozen for longer storage.
Making your own beef jerky snack sticks at home is not only delicious, but it's also a cost-effective and healthier alternative to store-bought options. Give it a try and see for yourself just how easy and satisfying it can be. For more inspiration and ideas, be sure to check out the delicious homemade style beef jerky and other snacks available at mfjerky.com.