Savory Air Fryer Beef Jerky
This mouthwatering homemade beef jerky is packed with rich flavors and tantalizing spices like garlic, soy sauce, and smoked paprika. Made in an air fryer with minimal effort, it yields a chewy, savory snack that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 1 tablespoon honey optional for sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat: Start by slicing your flank steak or sirloin into thin strips, ensuring they're as uniform as possible for even drying.
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and honey (if using). Stir until mixed, then add the beef strips. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 160°F (70°C). If your air fryer doesn't reach this temperature, set it to the lowest heat setting.
- Arrange the Beef: Remove the beef from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place the strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd them.
- Air Fry the Jerky: Cook for about 2 to 3 hours, flipping the strips halfway through. The jerky is done when it's dry but still slightly chewy.
- Cooling and Storing: Once finished, remove the jerky from the air fryer and let it cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks or refrigerate for longer shelf life.