Air-Fried Beef Jerky: A Quick, Easy Treat

Beef jerky is a tasty, high-protein snack that is convenient to grab on the go. While store-bought options are readily available, making beef jerky at home in an air fryer is a fun and healthy alternative. Air fryers are a great option if you don't have a smoker or dehydrator, and they can produce delicious, chewy, and tender beef jerky.

Choosing the right cut of beef

Yes, you can cook beef jerky in an air fryer. The air fryer dries the meat evenly, resulting in the perfect chewy texture and intense flavor.

The cut of beef you choose will determine the flavor and texture of your jerky. Selecting a lean cut of meat with very little fat is key as fat does not dehydrate like lean meat and can lead to spoilage.

The best cuts of meat for beef jerky are Top Round, Bottom Round, Lifter, and Pectoral. These cuts are economical, lean, and full of flavor. Top Round is more tender than Bottom Round and less tender than Eye of Round. Bottom Round is also similar to Chuck, which is another option. Eye of Round is a great choice because it comes with no external fat, so you won't need to do any trimming.

Other options include Flank Steak, Skirt Steak, and Sirloin Tip. Flank Steak is lean and flavorful, but it can be tough if it's sliced with the grain. Sirloin Tip is extremely lean but not as tender and a bit more expensive.

If you're looking for something different, you can also try exotic meats like grass-fed Tibetan Yak, alligator, kangaroo, or wild game such as venison, buffalo, elk, and boar.

Marinade ingredients and preparation

Marinating the meat is an important step in preparing beef jerky in an air fryer. You can marinate the beef for at least 3 hours, but overnight or up to 18-24 hours is best. The longer you marinate the meat, the more flavourful it will be.

There are many marinade recipes available, but you can also create your own. A basic marinade recipe includes teriyaki and soy sauce with ground black pepper. You can also purchase pre-made marinades from the store. If you want to make your own marinade, you can add ingredients like brown sweetener or sugar, but remember to balance the flavours with spices so that it's not overly sweet.

To prepare the beef, trim any excess fat from the outside of the meat. Then, slice the beef into very thin, bite-sized strips, no thicker than 1/4 inch. A good option is to use a meat mallet to beat the steak until it is thin enough to slice. You can also partially freeze the beef to make it easier to cut thinly, or ask your local butcher to slice it for you.

Once the beef is sliced, whisk the marinade ingredients together in a bowl and add the beef strips, ensuring they are all covered and not sticking together. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate.

Air fryer settings and cooking time

Air fryers are a great option for making beef jerky as they ensure even heat distribution, reducing the chances of unevenly cooked jerky. They are also more energy-efficient than using a full-size oven. However, there are a few challenges to be aware of when using an air fryer to make beef jerky. These include limited space for air circulation, smaller capacities than dehydrators or ovens, and higher temperature settings than those traditionally used for dehydrating meat.

To start, it is important to select the right cut of beef. A tougher cut of meat will result in chewier jerky, while a tender cut will give softer, melt-in-the-mouth jerky. Top round and bottom round steaks are ideal as they are lean and flavourful, but any lean cut of beef can be used. It is also important to trim any excess fat from the outside of the beef.

Next, slice the beef into thin strips, no thicker than 1/4 inch. A sharp knife should be used to slice with the grain, rather than against it. Partially freezing the beef can make it easier to cut thinly. The beef slices should then be covered in a marinade and left to soak for at least three hours, although 18-24 hours is recommended for the best results.

After marinating, remove the beef from the refrigerator, drain, and dry thoroughly before placing the strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Set the air fryer temperature to between 165-175°F/ 80°C and cook for two to four hours, checking the jerky regularly to ensure it does not burn. The jerky is ready when all the moisture has gone but before it chars. It needs to reach 160°F/71°C to be safe to consume, so check with an instant-read meat thermometer to be sure.

Once the jerky is ready, allow it to cool before serving or storing in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or for 1-2 months if following USDA guidelines.

Storing your beef jerky

Firstly, allow the beef jerky to cool down before storing. This is important as it helps to prevent moisture buildup inside the container, which can promote spoilage. Aim to let it cool for several hours.

Secondly, choose the right storage container. Airtight containers, such as mason jars or plastic food containers, are ideal as they prevent exposure to air, moisture, and light, which are common culprits of jerky spoilage. You can also use resealable plastic bags, but these are more susceptible to pests. If you do use plastic bags, opt for freezer-grade bags, as they are thicker and more durable. Additionally, consider storing the plastic bag inside a mason jar or container for extra protection.

When using plastic bags, it is recommended to expel as much air as possible before sealing. You can also use paper bags for a day or two before transferring the jerky to an airtight container, as this helps remove any remaining moisture.

Properly stored homemade beef jerky can last for 1-2 months in airtight packaging or 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. If you use vacuum-sealed packaging, the jerky can be stored for even longer periods. However, once the package is opened, consume the jerky within 3-5 days or within a week if kept in the fridge.

Finally, always inspect your beef jerky before consuming it. The main sign of spoilage is the presence of mold, which appears as a white fuzzy substance. If you notice any mold, discard the entire batch, as it could cause food poisoning.

Health benefits of air-fried beef jerky

Beef jerky is a high-protein snack food. Making it at home in an air fryer is easy, fun, and simple. It is also a great low-carb snack option.

The health benefits of air-fried beef jerky are numerous. Firstly, it is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Secondly, homemade beef jerky is free from preservatives and artificial ingredients often found in store-bought varieties. This means you know exactly what you are eating and can control the amount of sodium and sugar in your jerky.

Additionally, air-fried beef jerky can be a more economical option than store-bought jerky. By making it at home, you can save money and still enjoy a delicious, healthy snack. You can also customise the flavour of your jerky by using different marinades and seasonings, such as teriyaki and soy sauce, garlic powder, liquid smoke, or brown sugar.

Finally, air-fried beef jerky is a convenient snack option that can be taken on the go. It does not require any refrigeration, making it perfect for road trips, outdoor activities, or long days at the office.

Frequently asked questions