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Air Fryer Beef Jerky

Air Fryer Beef Jerky
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This Air Fryer Beef Jerky recipe provides a quick, convenient, and customizable way to make a flavorful, chewy, and protein-rich snack at home using lean beef and a simple savory marinade. The air fryer method delivers perfect texture with minimal cleanup, making it ideal for healthy snacking anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean beef (flank steak or top round)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp optional chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Beef: Trim any excess fat from your lean beef cut, then slice thinly across the grain, about 1/8 inch thick, ensuring thin and uniform pieces for even cooking and the right chewy texture.
  2. Marinating the Meat: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and optional chili flakes. Toss the beef slices thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow flavors to penetrate.
  3. Prepping the Air Fryer: Remove a wire rack sized to fit your air fryer basket, or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. Ensure the air fryer is clean and preheated to about 175°F (80°C) if your model allows low-temperature settings.
  4. Air Frying the Jerky: Arrange the beef slices in a single layer on the rack without overlap. Air fry at 165°F to 175°F for 2 to 3 hours. Check periodically to prevent burning and flip halfway through for even drying. The jerky is done when it bends and cracks without snapping.
  5. Cooling and Storing: Let the jerky cool completely on a wire rack to avoid moisture buildup. Store in airtight containers or resealable bags at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate up to one month for longer freshness.

Notes

  • Freeze beef slightly before slicing to achieve uniform thin strips.
  • Use low and slow air fryer settings to dehydrate effectively without cooking too fast.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper airflow and even drying.
  • Swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
  • Jerky should be pliable with a dry but slightly chewy consistency when done.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef jerky, air fryer recipe, protein snack, healthy snack, homemade jerky, low fat snack

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/air-fryer-beef-jerky/