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Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Air Fryer Beef Jerky
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This Easy Air Fryer Beef Jerky recipe lets you create chewy, flavorful, and protein-packed jerky quickly and conveniently using your air fryer. With bold, rich beef flavor enhanced by a savory, smoky, and slightly sweet marinade, this homemade jerky is a healthy snack option that’s customizable to your taste preferences and perfect for on-the-go energy.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean beef (top round or sirloin), thinly sliced about 1/8 inch thick
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Beef: Start by selecting a lean cut of beef such as top round or sirloin. Partially freeze the beef for about an hour to make slicing easier, then slice it thinly and uniformly at about 1/8 inch thickness to ensure even drying and cooking.
  2. Marinating the Meat: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss the beef slices thoroughly in the marinade until all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors deeply penetrate the meat.
  3. Preparing the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (or the lowest available temperature). Lay the marinated beef strips in a single layer on the air fryer basket or rack, making sure none overlap to allow proper air circulation.
  4. Drying and Cooking: Cook the beef slices for 2 to 3 hours, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Start checking after 2 hours to prevent over-drying, aiming for a jerky texture that is dry but still chewy and flexible.
  5. Cooling and Storing: Once cooked, allow the beef jerky to cool completely at room temperature. Store the jerky in airtight containers or resealable bags in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Freeze the beef for about an hour before slicing to get thin, uniform pieces.
  • Marinate overnight for deeper flavor and better tenderness.
  • Avoid overlapping the beef strips in the air fryer for even drying and cooking.
  • Check the jerky starting at 2 hours to avoid overcooking and keep desired chewiness.
  • Store jerky in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to maximize freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef jerky, air fryer recipe, homemade jerky, healthy snack, protein snack, gluten free jerky

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/air-fryer-beef-jerky/