Ingredients for Basic Beef Jerky
- 2 lbs beef sirloin
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
- 1 teaspoon curing salt (optional)
Cook Smarter with Sous, Your Kitchen Companion
Missing an ingredient for this Basic Beef Jerky? Need a perfect wine pairing or a healthy side dish idea? Don't guess—ask Sous! Your AI-powered sous-chef is ready to help you swap ingredients, adjust serving sizes, and discover flavor tips in seconds.
How to Make Basic Beef Jerky
- In a large bowl, combine 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain, with 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional).
- Mix thoroughly, ensuring all the beef slices are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the beef to marinate fully.
- Preheat your dehydrator to 160°F (71°C). If using an oven, preheat to the lowest setting (around 170°F or 77°C), leaving the oven door slightly ajar.
- Arrange the marinated beef slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays or on oven-safe racks. Make sure the slices are not overlapping.
- Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until the jerky is completely dry and chewy. If using an oven, this process may take up to 24 hours, checking frequently to prevent burning. The jerky is done when it is no longer sticky and bends without breaking.
- Once the jerky is dry, remove it from the dehydrator or oven and allow it to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
9 g
Sugar
0g
Fat
14g
Carbs
0g
