Air Fryer Beef Jerky: Dehydrator Method

Making beef jerky in an air fryer is a great alternative to using a smoker or dehydrator. It's simple to make, and you can use a variety of marinades to create different flavours. The air fryer dries the meat evenly, resulting in the perfect chewy texture and intense flavours. You can also make it spicy if you want to add a kick.

Choosing the right cut of meat

First, opt for a lean cut of beef. Lean cuts, such as top round, bottom round, sirloin, or eye of round, are ideal as they have minimal fat content. Fat can cause the jerky to spoil faster, so it's best to trim any excess fat from the meat before slicing. Additionally, leaner cuts are easier to work with and will give you more consistent results.

Next, consider the texture you want for your jerky. If you prefer a chewier jerky, choose a tougher cut of beef. On the other hand, if you want softer, melt-in-your-mouth jerky, go for a more tender cut. Flank steak, for example, can be a good choice, but be aware that it may be tough if it's sliced with the grain. So, if you choose flank steak, be sure to slice it against the grain.

When selecting your meat, it's also important to think about the size and thickness of the cut. Look for a cut that is relatively uniform in size and thickness, as this will make it easier to slice into thin, even strips. Eye of round steaks, for instance, typically provide a good level of consistency.

Finally, don't be afraid to ask your butcher for help. They can guide you in selecting the best cut for jerky and may even be able to slice the meat for you, ensuring you get those perfect, thin strips.

Remember, the right cut of meat will make all the difference in the final texture and taste of your beef jerky, so take the time to choose wisely!

Marinating the beef

Firstly, choose a lean cut of beef such as top round, bottom round, sirloin, or flank steak. Lean cuts of beef are preferable as they have minimal fat, which can cause the jerky to spoil faster. Once you have selected your cut of beef, trim any excess fat from the meat.

Next, slice the beef into thin strips. The ideal thickness can vary from 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch. Freezing the beef prior to slicing can make this process easier. Cut the beef against the grain for a tender texture, or with the grain for a more traditional, chewy texture.

Now it's time to prepare the marinade. You can either make your own marinade by combining ingredients like soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, honey, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, or you can use a store-bought marinade like teriyaki or barbecue sauce.

Place the beef strips into a large bowl and cover them with the marinade, ensuring that all surfaces of the beef are coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour, but preferably overnight or for up to 24 hours for maximum flavour.

After marinating, remove the beef strips from the refrigerator and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess marinade. This step is important to ensure the best texture for your jerky.

Now your beef is ready to be placed into the air fryer and dehydrated!

Drying the beef

Slicing the Meat:

Start by slicing your chosen cut of beef into long, thin strips. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch. The thinner the slices, the faster the drying process and the more tender the final product. If you're having trouble slicing the meat thinly, try partially freezing it for 30 minutes to an hour before cutting. Alternatively, you can ask your local butcher to slice it for you.

When slicing, it is recommended to cut against the grain for a tender texture that is easy to rip apart. If you prefer a more traditional, chewy texture, cut the meat with the grain.

Marinating the Beef:

After slicing, prepare your chosen marinade and fully submerge the beef strips, ensuring they are well coated and not sticking together. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour, but preferably overnight or up to 24 hours for maximum flavour.

Preparing the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 160°F and 180°F. The ideal temperature will depend on your air fryer and personal preference, as higher temperatures will speed up the drying process but may increase the risk of burning.

Arranging the Beef in the Air Fryer:

Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Then, place the strips into the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. It is important that all surfaces of the meat are exposed to the hot air for even drying. If you have a small air fryer, consider using a rack to maximise space.

Place the basket into the air fryer and dry the beef for about 2 to 3 hours. The time will depend on the thickness of the meat, the temperature, and your desired level of doneness. Check the jerky regularly, especially towards the end of the drying time, to ensure it does not burn.

The jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break completely. It should feel firm and dry to the touch without any sogginess. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the jerky has reached a safe internal temperature of 160°F.

Cooling and Storing:

Once the jerky is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool completely before storing. Proper cooling helps prevent condensation, which can lead to spoilage. Store your beef jerky in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.

Homemade beef jerky can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks to a month or more. However, always check the texture and smell before consuming, as the exact storage duration will depend on various factors, including the initial moisture level of the jerky.

Storing the beef jerky

Cooling the Beef Jerky:

Before storing, it is important to let the beef jerky cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can lead to spoilage. Allow the jerky to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to a storage container.

Choosing the Right Storage Container:

Beef jerky should be stored in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Airtight containers will help keep the jerky fresh and prevent moisture from getting in. If using plastic bags, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can also use freezer bags and suck out the air to create a vacuum-sealed effect.

Refrigeration or Room Temperature Storage:

The USDA recommends that homemade beef jerky be stored in the refrigerator. This helps extend its shelf life and keeps it safe for consumption. Beef jerky can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, according to some sources, while others suggest it can last for several weeks. If you plan to consume the jerky within a few days, refrigeration is a good option.

However, if you want to store the jerky for a longer period, consider keeping it in a cool, dark place like your pantry. Beef jerky stored in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags at room temperature can last for up to one or two months. This storage method is recommended by the USDA for homemade jerky that has been cooked and dehydrated.

Ensuring Food Safety:

To ensure food safety, always use clean containers for storage. Wash your hands before handling the jerky, and avoid contaminating it with other foods. Proper storage will help prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your beef jerky safe to eat.

Storing in Freezers:

If you have made a large batch of beef jerky and want to store it for an extended period, consider freezing it. Freezing can help extend the shelf life of jerky by several months. Place the jerky in freezer bags, remove as much air as possible, and seal tightly before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to eat the frozen jerky, thaw it in the refrigerator before consuming.

Checking for Spoilage:

Before consuming stored beef jerky, always check for signs of spoilage. If the jerky has changed colour, developed an unusual odour, or shows signs of mould, discard it immediately. Proper storage will help extend the shelf life of your homemade beef jerky, but it is still important to monitor it for any signs of deterioration over time.

Seasoning options

Seasoning is a key part of making beef jerky, and there are many different options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Teriyaki Beef Jerky

This option combines soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and ground ginger to create a savoury and sweet flavour profile. This is a popular choice for beef jerky and is often complemented with additional ingredients such as onion powder or red pepper flakes.

Smoked Beef Jerky

For a smoky flavour, you can add liquid smoke or smoked paprika to your marinade. This variation adds a rich, savoury dimension to the beef jerky.

Spicy Beef Jerky

Adding chilli flakes, red pepper flakes, or garlic to your marinade will give your beef jerky a spicy kick. You can adjust the amount of spice to your preference, whether you like a subtle warmth or a mouth-numbing kick.

Honey BBQ Beef Jerky

This variation, as the name suggests, includes honey to provide a sweet and sticky element to the jerky. Combined with barbecue flavours, it creates a delicious, finger-licking snack.

Worcestershire Sauce Marinade

Worcestershire sauce is a classic beef jerky marinade, providing a rich, savoury, and slightly tangy flavour. You can also add honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and onion powder to this marinade for extra depth.

Simple Salt and Pepper

Sometimes, less is more. Seasoning your beef jerky with just salt and pepper can allow the natural flavours of the meat to shine through. This option is perfect for those who prefer a more subtle flavour or want to enjoy the texture of the jerky without overwhelming spices.

When making beef jerky in an air fryer, the seasoning options are endless. You can experiment with different combinations of spices, herbs, and sauces to create unique and delicious flavours. Remember to marinate your meat for at least a few hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to truly penetrate the meat.

Frequently asked questions