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 Be the first
Backpacker's Beef Jerky 220

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Backpacker's Beef Jerky

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Backpacker's Beef Jerky?

Backpacker's Beef Jerky takes about 790 minutes from start to finish — roughly 60 minutes to prepare and 730 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Backpacker's Beef Jerky?

Backpacker's Beef Jerky has approximately 275.2 calories per serving, with about 8 g protein, 1 g carbohydrates and 41 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Backpacker's Beef Jerky?

The key ingredients for Backpacker's Beef Jerky are Beef, Black Pepper, Steak Spice, Chili Powder, Brown Sugar, Garlic. See the full list with measurements above.

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