Backpacker's Beef Jerky Recipe

Conquer your next wilderness adventure with this wholesome, nutritious, and low-fat beef jerky recipe! Perfect for day trips or epic 7+ day expeditions, this easy-to-make snack provides sustained energy for tough portages, long canoe trips, and challenging hikes. Make your own delicious, customizable jerky and leave the processed stuff behind!

Prep Time 60 mins
Cook Time 730 mins
Calories 275.2 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 4.7 (7 Reviews)
Backpacker's Beef Jerky 102

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Backpacker's Beef Jerky

  • 2 pounds beef, cut into strips
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0 quantity steak spice
  • 0 quantity chili powder
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 0 quantity hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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How to Make Backpacker's Beef Jerky

  1. In a large zip-top bag, combine all marinade ingredients: Whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  2. Add the 2 lbs beef strips to the bag, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade.
  3. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably 12 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
  4. Remove beef strips from the bag and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for even drying.
  5. Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on your dehydrator trays, ensuring they are not overlapping.
  6. Dehydrate at 160°F (71°C) for 8-12 hours, or until the jerky is completely dry and leathery to the touch. Check frequently, as dehydration times vary depending on your dehydrator and thickness of beef strips.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

29 g

Sugar

8g

Fat

55g

Carbs

1g

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