Introduction
Beef jerky is a beloved snack known for its rich flavor and chewy texture. Traditionally made by drying and curing meat, this protein-packed treat has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations that needed a way to preserve meat for long journeys. Today, air fryers have made the process simpler, allowing you to enjoy homemade jerky in less time while retaining all the flavors.
## Ingredients
– **1 lb** thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin or round steak)
– **½ cup** Worcestershire sauce
– **¼ cup** soy sauce
– **2 tbsp** brown sugar
– **1 tsp** garlic powder
– **1 tsp** onion powder
– **1 tsp** black pepper
– **1 tsp** smoked paprika
– **1 tsp** red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
## Instructions
### Preparation
1. **Slice the Beef**: Ensure the beef is partially frozen for easier slicing. Cut it against the grain into thin strips (about 1/8 inch thick).
2. **Make the Marinade**: In a bowl, combine Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
3. **Marinate the Beef**: Place the beef strips in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
### Air Frying
1. **Preheat the Air Fryer**: Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (70°C).
2. **Arrange the Beef**: Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better texture. Arrange the strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
3. **Cook**: Air fry the beef for about 3-4 hours, checking for doneness. The jerky should be firm and slightly pliable.
4. **Cool and Store**: Once done, let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept for several weeks at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.
## History
Beef jerky has roots in many cultures, with Native Americans drying strips of meat for sustenance. The word “jerky” comes from the Spanish word “charqui,” which means dried meat. With the advent of modern preservation techniques, jerky has evolved but remains a staple in many diets, especially among outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.
## Benefits
– **High in Protein**: Beef jerky is an excellent source of protein, making it a great snack for muscle building and recovery.
– **Low in Carbs**: It’s a good option for low-carb diets.
– **Convenient**: Easy to carry and store, making it a perfect travel snack.
– **Long Shelf Life**: Properly dried and stored jerky can last for months.
## Nutritional Information (per ounce)
– **Calories**: Approximately 70
– **Protein**: 11g
– **Fat**: 2g
– **Carbohydrates**: 3g
– **Fiber**: 0g
– **Sugar**: 1g
## Conclusion
Homemade air fryer beef jerky is not only a delicious snack but also a healthy alternative to store-bought options, which often contain preservatives and additives. With its rich history and numerous benefits, it’s a perfect treat for anyone looking to enjoy a protein-packed snack. Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or just snacking at home, this beef jerky recipe is sure to please. Enjoy making it with your loved ones and share the joy of this timeless treat!
