Make The Perfect Beef Jerky With London Broil: A Delicious And Easy Recipe

Beef jerky, a delectable and protein-packed snack, is a timeless culinary treat that has captivated taste buds for centuries. With its chewy texture and savory flavor, it’s an ideal companion for outdoor adventures, road trips, or simply as a satisfying on-the-go snack. If you’re eager to embark on the delectable journey of making beef jerky, look no further than the versatile and flavorful London broil. This lean and affordable cut of beef offers an exceptional base for creating mouthwatering jerky that will tantalize your palate.

Choosing the Right London Broil

The key to exceptional beef jerky lies in selecting the perfect London broil. Opt for a cut that is well-marbled with a deep red color and minimal fat content. Avoid cuts with excessive marbling or a pale appearance, as these may result in a less flavorful or chewy jerky.

Marinating the Beef

Once you have your London broil, it’s time to marinate it in a flavorful concoction that will infuse the meat with tantalizing flavors. The marinating process not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the beef, ensuring a succulent and chewable texture.

#Ingredients for the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

#Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients.
2. Place the London broil in the marinade, ensuring it is fully submerged.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor penetration.

Slicing the Beef

After marinating, remove the London broil from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. The ideal thickness for beef jerky is about 1/8 inch.

Dehydrating the Jerky

The dehydration process is crucial for creating the chewy texture and preserving the beef jerky. There are several methods for dehydrating jerky:

#Using a Dehydrator:

1. Arrange the beef strips on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they do not overlap.
2. Set the dehydrator to 155-165°F (68-74°C).
3. Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until the jerky is dry and leathery.

#Using an Oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 175°F (80°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the beef strips on top.
3. Bake for 4-6 hours, or until the jerky is dry and leathery. Keep the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.

#Using a Food Smoker:

1. Preheat the smoker to 175°F (80°C).
2. Hang the beef strips on the smoker racks or use a jerky gun to create uniform strips.
3. Smoke for 6-8 hours, or until the jerky is dry and leathery.

Storing the Beef Jerky

Once the beef jerky is dehydrated, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.

• Place the jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Jerky can be stored for up to 2 weeks at room temperature or up to 3 months in the refrigerator.

Tips for Making the Best Beef Jerky

• Experiment with different marinades to create unique flavors.
• Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender texture.
• Dehydrate the jerky until it is dry and leathery, but not brittle.
• Store the jerky properly to preserve its freshness and flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Jerky is too tough: Marinate the beef for a longer period or slice it thinner.
• Jerky is too moist: Dehydrate the jerky for a longer period or increase the temperature slightly.
• Jerky is too salty: Adjust the amount of salt in the marinade or rinse the beef strips before marinating.
• Jerky has an off-flavor: Use fresh ingredients and discard any beef that has an unusual odor or appearance.

The Joy of Homemade Beef Jerky

Creating beef jerky with London broil is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Not only will you savor the delicious results, but you’ll also appreciate the satisfaction of crafting a homemade snack that is both healthy and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, experiment with flavors, and embark on the delightful journey of making your own beef jerky.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other cuts of beef for making jerky?
A: Yes, other lean cuts such as flank steak, top round, or brisket can be used for making beef jerky.

Q: How long does it take to dehydrate beef jerky?
A: Dehydration time varies depending on the method used and the thickness of the beef strips. It typically takes 6-8 hours in a dehydrator or food smoker and 4-6 hours in an oven.

Q: How do I know when the beef jerky is done?
A: The jerky should be dry and leathery, but not brittle. When you bend a piece of jerky, it should break cleanly without snapping.