Air Fryer Jerky: Is It Possible?

You can use an air fryer to make jerky. It's a great way to make a tasty, protein-packed snack without the need for a smoker or dehydrator. The air fryer dries the meat evenly, resulting in the perfect chewy texture and intense flavours. It's also a more affordable option than buying jerky from the store.

Choosing the right cut of meat

If you prefer your jerky to be more tender, opt for thinner strips of meat, no greater than 1/4" thick. Freezing the meat for about 30 minutes before cutting will make it easier to achieve those thin, uniform strips. You can also ask your butcher to slice the meat for you.

If you're looking for a cheaper option, London broil is a good choice, but it tends to be a little fattier. Remember, fat is the enemy when it comes to long-term storage, so trim off any excess fat from the outside of the beef.

For a chewier jerky, cut the meat with the grain. Alternatively, cut against the grain for jerky that's easier to tear apart.

Marinating the meat

Firstly, choose your cut of meat. It is recommended to use a lean cut of beef, such as eye of round steak or top round roast. These cuts have less external fat, reducing the need for trimming. You can also opt for other types of beef, such as London broil or flank steak, but ensure that you trim any excess fat from the meat.

Next, prepare the meat for marinating. Cut the meat into thin strips, ideally no thicker than 1/4 of an inch. Freezing the meat for about 30 minutes beforehand can make it easier to cut into thin, uniform strips. Cut the meat against the grain for more tender jerky, or with the grain for a chewier texture.

Now, it's time to make the marinade. You can purchase a pre-made marinade or make your own. A basic marinade can be made by combining Worcestershire sauce, honey (or brown sugar), soy sauce, and onion powder. You can also experiment with different flavours by adding ingredients such as liquid smoke, smoked paprika, chili flakes, garlic powder, or ground ginger.

Once you have prepared your marinade, place the meat strips into a bowl or container with the marinade. Ensure that all surfaces of the meat are coated. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, but preferably overnight or even up to 24 hours for more intense flavour.

After the meat has finished marinating, remove it from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels. It is important to remove any excess moisture before placing the meat in the air fryer.

Now your meat is ready for the air fryer! Remember to arrange the meat strips in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap too much, so that the air fryer can dry the meat evenly.

By following these steps and allowing adequate time for marinating, you will end up with delicious, flavourful jerky that you can enjoy as a high-protein snack.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for making jerky in an air fryer depend on the type of meat, its thickness, and the quantity being cooked. The temperature should be low to allow moisture to escape without burning the meat. The ideal temperature range is between 130-175°F (54-79°C).

For example, if you are cooking 2lbs of meat, it may take 10 hours at 130°F (54°C). However, if you are cooking at a higher temperature of 165°F (74°C), it may take 4-6 hours. It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut and thickness of the meat. The meat should be cut into thin strips, ideally no thicker than 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). Freezing the meat for 30 minutes before cutting can make it easier to achieve thin, uniform slices.

When cooking, it is recommended to check the meat halfway through and dab off any liquid or fat. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the meat strips do not overlap in the air fryer to allow for even cooking and dehydration. Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature slightly. It is always a good idea to monitor the meat towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking or burning.

The ideal internal temperature of the meat when it is done is 160°F (71°C). This can be checked using an instant-read meat thermometer. Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the jerky from the air fryer and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bags.

Storing your jerky

After the jerky has cooled, it should be stored in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. It is best to keep it in the refrigerator, where it can last for several weeks to a month. If you're using an airtight container, make sure it's made of a material that can withstand refrigeration, like glass or plastic.

If you want to extend the shelf life of your jerky even further, you can store it in the freezer. Freezing jerky can keep it fresh for several months. However, it's important to note that the texture and taste of the jerky may change slightly after freezing.

It's also worth noting that the ingredients used in your marinade can affect the storage time of your jerky. For example, if you use curing salts, your jerky may last longer without refrigeration. Always check the ingredients and their potential impact on storage time.

Finally, when storing your jerky, try to keep the pieces from touching or overlapping. This will help ensure even drying and prevent spoilage.

Health benefits of jerky

Yes, you can use an air fryer to make jerky. There are many recipes online that can guide you through the process, but the basic steps are as follows: cut your beef into thin strips, marinate it, and then place the beef strips in the air fryer at a low temperature for 2-3 hours.

Now, onto the health benefits of jerky.

Jerky is a tasty, convenient, and healthy snack. It is an excellent source of protein, providing up to 15 grams of protein per serving. It is also generally 97% fat-free, as the moisture and fat are removed from the meat during the preparation process. However, it is important to note that different types of jerky will vary in their calorie, fat, and protein content. For example, ostrich jerky is very lean, while buffalo jerky is rich in protein.

Beef jerky, specifically, provides several health benefits due to its nutritional composition. Firstly, it is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. It also contains zinc, which supports the immune system and cell division. Additionally, beef jerky is a source of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the human body compared to non-heme iron found in plants. Consuming beef jerky can help prevent iron deficiency, especially in active women who are more prone to low iron levels.

Furthermore, beef jerky is low in carbohydrates, with less than 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving. It is also a good option for those on a low-sodium diet, as some brands offer jerky with less than 300 mg of sodium per serving. However, it is important to be mindful of the sodium content in jerky, especially for those with high blood pressure or heart disease.

While jerky has several health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions