Description
Savor the rich flavors of homemade Air Fryer Beef Jerky—tender, flavorful, and healthier than store-bought! This delightful snack is perfect for road trips, movie nights, or when you’re craving something savory.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef
- 1 pound lean cut beef (sirloin or flank steak)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Start by slicing your beef into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. This thickness allows for even drying and ensures the jerky is tender yet chewy.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until everything is well mixed and the sugar has dissolved.
- Marinate the Beef: Place the beef strips in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (70°C). This temperature is ideal for drying the meat while ensuring it remains safe to eat.
- Arrange the Beef Strips: Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture. Arrange the strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap for optimal air circulation.
- Cook the Jerky: Cook the beef strips in the air fryer for about 4 to 6 hours, flipping them halfway through. Check for doneness; the jerky should be dry but still slightly bendable.
Notes
- Slice against the grain for a tender texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Experiment with different marinades to find your favorite combination.
- Store jerky in an airtight container after it cools completely.
- Ensure uniform thickness for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ounce
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: beef jerky, air fryer, homemade snack, protein snack