Beef Jerky is one heck of a fun treat that is enjoyable almost everywhere. It can be eaten at home, when you are out camping, on a picnic or even as snack in the middle of the workday. Beef jerky can be purchased in a lot of grocery stores or convenience stores. Homemade beef jerky, however, is not only more delicious, it is also a whole lot cheaper. And no, one does not need to work with a dehydrator to be able to enjoy homemade jerky. Homemade jerky can be made with your oven. Although the preparation can take some time, the results will be yummy. Follow the steps below to make your very own homemade jerky.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
- Steak cut (particularly the beef flank)
- Beef jerky seasoning and cure (packaged and store bought)
- Food scale
- Sealable plastic bags with zipper (large size)
- Large toothpicks
INSTRUCTIONS
- The first step is to buy a steak cut, more particularly the beef flank. This piece of meat has straight grains, is lean and has red meat. Cutting is easier with this meat and waste will be minimized or even eliminated.
- Carefully lay the meat on the surface of the cutting board. Cut the beef flank in half so that it will be thinner. The knife closest to one’s body, as well as the blade that faces away from the body, start cutting the beef flank in half. The handle of the knife should stay flat on the surface of the cutting board during the entire process. After cutting, separate the pieces. Continue to cut from the top again until the thickness of the meat is about ¼ inch to 1/8 inch thick.
- The meat must be cut lengthwise into strips that measure around one inch. Ensure that one is cutting alongside the grain.
- Verify the cure and seasoning mix instructions to ascertain the amount of seasoning one will require for every pound of the meat. Next, weigh the meat. Incorporate the proper amount of cure and seasoning mix.
- Put the seasoned beef inside the plastic zip bag. Seal properly. Allow this to sit inside the refrigerator. Curing must be for an overnight period.
- The meat strips must be hung using the toothpicks on the oven rack. Cook this at a temperature of 200 degrees for a period of 80 minutes.
- The beef jerky’s taste can be further enhanced by placing the meat inside a new zipper-sealed plastic bag while the meat is still hot. Allow this to sit for a period of one hour prior to eating.
