How to Make Jerky in a Food Dehydrator

If you are a fan of jerky, making jerky at home using an electric food dehydrator is a rewarding and easy process. Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients, it also ensures you have a delicious, healthy snack on hand. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make jerky using a home food dehydrator.

Step 1: Choose Meat

The first step in making jerky is choosing the right meat. Lean beef, turkey or chicken works best. Look for cuts with the least amount of fat, as fat can spoil and affect the shelf life of dehydrated foods. Popular choices include flank steak, sirloin steak or turkey breast.

Trim any visible fat from the meat and cut into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick. To make slicing easier, partially freeze the meat for about an hour. You can slice against the grain for a chewier texture, or against the grain for a more tender texture.

Step 3: Marinate

To enhance the flavor of the jerky, marinate the meat for at least 4 hours and overnight if possible. A simple marinade can include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder and your choice of spices. Make sure the meat is completely coated and refrigerated during this time.

Step 4: Dehydration

Once marinated, remove the meat from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange the strips in a single layer on the tray of your Home Dehydrator, making sure they don’t overlap. Set the dehydrator to 160°F (70°C) and run for 4 to 6 hours, or until the jerky is dry and firm but still slightly pliable.

Step 5: Storage

Once the jerky is ready, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. Properly dehydrated jerky will keep for several weeks in a cool, dry place.

Making jerky in a home food dehydrator is not only easy, but it also allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your homemade snack!