How do I make beef jerky in the oven? If you’re looking for a convenient and healthy way to enjoy beef jerky without the need for a dehydrator, then making it in the oven is the perfect solution. Oven-dried beef jerky is a great way to enjoy the delicious taste of jerky without the mess and time-consuming process of using a dehydrator. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to make delicious oven-dried beef jerky right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of lean beef, such as top round or bottom round
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Equipment
You’ll also need the following equipment:
– A sharp knife
– A cutting board
– Plastic wrap or parchment paper
– A baking sheet
– A meat thermometer (optional, for checking the internal temperature)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef: Trim any excess fat from the beef and cut it into 1/4-inch thick slices. The thinner the slices, the quicker the jerky will dry.
2. Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the beef slices to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting, typically around 170°F (77°C). This low temperature will allow the jerky to dry slowly without cooking it.
4. Arrange the Beef: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or plastic wrap. Arrange the marinated beef slices on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
5. Cook the Jerky: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let it dry for 4 to 6 hours, depending on the thickness of the slices and your desired level of dryness. The jerky is done when it is dry to the touch and has lost some of its elasticity. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safety.
6. Cool and Store: Remove the jerky from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet. Once cooled, transfer the jerky to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for longer storage.
Tips
– For a more flavorful jerky, you can experiment with different marinades and spices.
– Keep an eye on the jerky while it’s drying to prevent burning.
– If you prefer a softer jerky, you can cook it for a shorter period of time.
Now that you know how to make beef jerky in the oven, you can enjoy this delicious and nutritious snack whenever you want. Happy jerky-making!
