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Easy Air Fryer Beef Jerky: A Simple Recipe to Satisfy Your Cravings

If you’re a fan of savoury snacks that pack a punch, beef jerky is likely at the top of your list. Traditionally, making beef jerky can be a time-consuming process, often requiring hours in a dehydrator or an oven. However, with the advent of air fryers, creating mouth-watering beef jerky has never been easier or quicker. This article outlines a straightforward method for making easy air fryer beef jerky, along with a helpful video to guide you through the process.

What You Need

Before you embark on your journey to homemade beef jerky, it’s essential to gather your ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 500g lean beef (such as top round or flank steak)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional for a smoky flavour)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)

Tools:

• An air fryer
• A sharp knife
• A cutting board
• A mixing bowl
• A resealable plastic bag or container for marinating

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by partially freezing the beef for about 30-45 minutes. This makes it easier to slice. Once firm, remove the beef from the freezer and use a sharp knife to slice it thinly against the grain. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.

2. Marinate the Beef

In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl or transfer the mixture to a resealable bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, but ideally overnight for the best flavour absorption.

3. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to a temperature of 160°C (320°F) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes. This step is crucial for achieving an even cook on the jerky.

4. Air Fry the Beef Jerky

Once the air fryer is ready, remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture. Place the beef slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. The jerky is done when it’s dark in colour and has a tough but pliable texture—be careful not to overcook it, as this can lead to a dry product.

5. Cool and Store

Once cooked, remove the jerky from the air fryer and let it cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can store your beef jerky in an airtight container or resealable bag. It should last for up to two weeks at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for longer shelf life.

Enjoying Your Beef Jerky

Homemade beef jerky isn’t just a great snack; it also makes for fantastic gifts, road trip companions, or a protein-packed addition to salads and lunch boxes. The flavour combinations are endless, so feel free to experiment with spices or marinades to suit your palate.

For a visual guide on making easy air fryer beef jerky, check out the video below:

[Insert Video Here]

Conclusion

Now that you have a simple recipe for easy air fryer beef jerky, why not give it a try? Not only will you enjoy a delicious, homemade snack, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into it. With minimal time and effort, you can create a protein-packed treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy snacking!

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