Air fryer beef jerky

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Air fryer beef jerky is the best way to make beef jerky at home


Ingredients


1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin steak, round steak) [Note 1]
½ cup Worcestershire sauce
½ cup soy sauce


1 tbsp honey
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp chili flakes, optional, or add more for spicy jerky


Instructions

  1. Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a bowl.

  1. Cut beef slices into strips or squares.
  2. Add the beef strips to the marinade, ensure that all surfaces of the beef are covered by the marinade.

  1. Cover the bowl and place in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 3 hours.

  1. Remove beef from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.

  1. Place beef strips in air fryer basket in a single layer – ensure it is not overlapping.

  1. Air fry beef strips until completely dehydrated. Set to air fry at 210°F (100°C) for two hours, then check the jerky. If it is not completely dried out continue to air fry for 15-20 minute intervals until it is ready. It needs to reach 160°F/71°C [Note 2].

  1. When the jerky is ready, allow to cool and store in an air tight container.

Here are some variations you can try for your air fryer beef jerky:

  1. Teriyaki Jerky: Substitute the Worcestershire sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, Asian-inspired flavor. You can also add sesame seeds for extra texture.

  1. Spicy Chipotle Jerky: Add chipotle powder or smoked paprika to the marinade for a smoky and spicy kick. You can adjust the level of heat to your preference.

  1. Garlic and Herb Jerky: Incorporate minced garlic and dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the marinade for a savory twist.

  1. Sweet BBQ Jerky: Mix in some barbecue sauce with the Worcestershire and soy sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

  1. Citrus Zest Jerky: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the marinade for a refreshing citrus flavor.

Here are some tips for making the best air fryer beef jerky:

  1. Choose the Right Cut: Use lean cuts of beef like sirloin or round steak to reduce fat, which can make jerky spoil faster.

  1. Slice Evenly: Make sure to slice the beef into uniform thickness for even drying. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick.

  1. Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the beef for longer than the minimum time. Overnight is ideal.

  1. Pat Dry: After marinating, pat the beef strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps with the drying process.

  1. Don’t Overcrowd: Place the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping to ensure even cooking.

  1. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the jerky reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.

  1. Store Properly: Once cooled, store the jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag to keep it fresh longer.

To store your air fryer beef jerky, follow these tips:

  1. Cool Completely: Make sure the jerky is completely cooled before storing it to prevent moisture buildup.

  1. Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to keep the jerky fresh and prevent it from absorbing moisture.

  1. Refrigeration or Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life, you can refrigerate or freeze the jerky. Refrigerated jerky can last for about 1-2 weeks, while frozen jerky can last up to 6 months.

  1. Keep in a Cool, Dark Place: If you plan to consume the jerky within a week, you can store it in a cool, dark pantry.

when storing your air fryer beef jerky, make sure to cool it completely, use airtight containers, and consider refrigerating or freezing it for longer shelf life. Following these steps will help keep your jerky fresh and tasty! Enjoy your jerky-making adventure!

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