Air Fryer Beef Jerky

by

Introduction

Create flavorful, tender beef jerky in your air fryer with this simple recipe. This method is quicker than traditional drying techniques while still delivering that classic chewy texture and savory flavor. Perfect for snacks, road trips, or meal prepping, this Air Fryer Beef Jerky is both delicious and easy to make at home.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

  • 1 pound beef sirloin, flank, or top round (trimmed of fat and sliced thinly against the grain)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/8-inch thick. For easier slicing, freeze the beef for 20-30 minutes beforehand.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the beef strips, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set the air fryer to 180°F (82°C). If your air fryer does not have this setting, use the lowest possible temperature.

Step 4: Arrange the Beef

Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to prevent dripping. Arrange the strips in a single layer on the air fryer rack or basket, ensuring they do not overlap.

Step 5: Cook the Beef Jerky

Air fry for 2-3 hours, flipping the strips halfway through, until the jerky is dry but still slightly pliable. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the strips and your air fryer model.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 1 week at room temperature or 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Helpful Tips for Success

  • Beef Selection: Choose lean cuts of beef for the best results, as fat can cause spoilage.
  • Uniform Slicing: Ensure even cooking by slicing the beef into uniform thicknesses.
  • Marinating Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your jerky will be.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Each serving contains approximately 150 calories, 6 grams of carbohydrates, 20 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, and 1 gram of fiber. These values are approximate and depend on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use other meats for this recipe?
    Yes, turkey, chicken, or even venison can be used to make jerky. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
  2. What if my air fryer doesn’t go as low as 180°F?
    Use the lowest setting available and check the jerky frequently to avoid overcooking.
  3. How do I know when the jerky is done?
    The jerky should be dry and chewy but still slightly pliable when bent.
  4. Can I store jerky longer than 2 weeks?
    For extended storage, freeze the jerky in a zip-top bag or vacuum-sealed container.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Air Fryer Beef Jerky as:

  • A protein-packed snack on the go
  • A topping for salads or soups
  • An accompaniment to trail mix or cheese boards

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Beef Jerky offers all the flavor of traditional jerky with a fraction of the time and effort. Whether you’re a seasoned jerky fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Happy snacking!

Leave a Comment