Teriyaki Beef Jerky is a delectable, chewy snack that you can easily make at home. This recipe offers a savory and slightly spicy flavor profile, making it a perfect treat for any time of the day. Jerky has a long history, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt, but it was the Native Americans who introduced European settlers to this preserved meat delight. Its portability and extended shelf life made it essential for traders, explorers, and cowboys in the past, and we continue to relish it as a beloved snack in modern times.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 beef flank steak (1½ to 2 pounds)
- ⅔ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- ⅔ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 teaspoons coarsely ground pepper
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
PREPARATIONS:
- Trim all visible fat from the beef flank steak. Freeze the steak, covered, for 30 minutes or until firm. Then, slice it along the grain into long ⅛-inch thick strips.
- Transfer the beef strips to a large resealable plastic bag. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients, and add the mixture to the beef in the bag. Seal the bag and turn it to coat the beef evenly. Refrigerate it for 2 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
- Preheat the oven to 170°. Transfer the beef and marinade to a large saucepan, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Use tongs to remove the beef from the marinade, draining it on paper towels. Discard the marinade.
- Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on wire racks placed on 15x10x1-inch baking pans. Dry them in the oven for 4-5 hours or until the beef becomes dry and leathery, rotating the pans occasionally. Alternatively, you can use a commercial dehydrator, following the manufacturer’s directions.
- Remove the beef jerky from the oven and let it cool completely. Use paper towels to blot any beads of oil on the jerky. For the best quality and longer storage, keep the jerky covered in the refrigerator or freezer.
YIELD: 8 servings
COOKING TIME: Prep: 40 minutes + Marinating, Bake: 4 hours
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- When slicing the beef, ensure it’s against the grain to achieve the desired chewy texture.
TIPS:
- For added tenderness, consider marinating the beef overnight.
- Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to create unique jerky flavors.
In conclusion, Teriyaki Beef Jerky is a timeless and delicious snack that you can easily prepare at home. The blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and various spices creates a flavorful and addictive treat that will leave you craving for more. As we indulge in this delectable jerky, we are reminded of its historical significance, with Native Americans introducing European settlers to the art of drying meat.
The convenience and longevity of jerky made it a staple for traders, explorers, and cowboys, making their journeys more manageable with a reliable source of nourishment. In the present day, jerky remains a beloved snack cherished by people of all ages. Whether you’re on a hiking adventure, a road trip, or simply looking for a tasty treat at home, Teriyaki Beef Jerky offers a satisfying and portable solution.
As you prepare this delightful jerky, take the time to explore different variations and marinades. The beauty of making jerky at home lies in the ability to tailor the flavors to your liking. For those who enjoy a kick of heat, adding more crushed red pepper flakes will elevate the spice level. If you prefer a sweeter profile, experimenting with the honey quantity might be worth trying.
Furthermore, the process of slicing the beef against the grain is vital to achieving the ideal chewiness in the jerky. This technique ensures that the fibers are easier to chew, resulting in a more enjoyable snacking experience.
In the end, Teriyaki Beef Jerky not only tantalizes our taste buds but also connects us to the rich history of dried meat. From ancient times to the present, the art of preserving meat has stood the test of time and continues to bring delight to our modern lives. Embrace this age-old tradition in your kitchen, and share the joy of homemade jerky with family and friends.
