If you’re a fan of jerky, you know how addictive this tasty snack can be. While most people associate jerky with dehydrators or smokers, you can actually make delicious jerky right in your oven. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make jerky in the oven, complete with tips and tricks to make your jerky-making experience a success.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of lean meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 1/2 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 liquid smoke
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Choose the Right Meat
When making jerky, it’s important to use lean cuts of meat such as flank steak, top round, or sirloin. Trim off any visible fat before slicing the meat into thin strips against the grain for a tender chew.
Step 2: Marinate the Meat
Combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke in a bowl. Place the meat strips in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over the meat, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175-200°F (80-95°C). Use a wire rack on top of a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the jerky strips for even drying.
Step 4: Pat Dry and Season
Remove the meat strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the strips with a sprinkle of salt or additional black pepper if desired before placing them on the wire rack without touching.
Step 5: Bake the Jerky
Place the baking sheet with the jerky in the preheated oven. Bake for 4-6 hours, rotating the baking sheet halfway through, until the jerky is dried but still pliable. To test for doneness, the jerky should bend without breaking but not feel wet or soft.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Allow the jerky to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or zip-top bag for storage. Properly dried jerky can last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or even longer in the refrigerator.
Tips and Tricks:
- Choose the right thickness: Slicing the meat evenly ensures consistent drying. Aim for strips about 1/4 inch thick for the perfect jerky texture.
- Experiment with flavors: Customize your jerky marinade with spices, herbs, or sauces for a unique taste experience.
- Avoid overlapping: Make sure the meat strips don’t overlap on the wire rack to ensure proper airflow and drying.
- Check regularly: Keep an eye on the jerky while it’s baking to prevent over-drying. Thicker cuts may require longer baking times.
- Store properly: To maintain freshness, store jerky in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
With this guide, you can enjoy homemade jerky that’s flavorful, tender, and perfect for snacking anytime. Making jerky in the oven is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to control the ingredients and flavors to suit your taste preferences. Try out this method and impress your friends and family with your delicious homemade jerky!
