Beef jerky is a protein-packed, portable snack that’s perfect for on-the-go munching, hiking trips, or satisfying cravings. While traditional jerky-making methods involve hours of dehydrating or smoking, the air fryer offers a faster and more convenient way to achieve delicious, homemade beef jerky. With just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer, you can create tender, flavorful jerky in a fraction of the time.
Why Make Beef Jerky in an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer to make beef jerky is a game-changer. It cooks the meat quickly and evenly, while the circulating air helps remove moisture, giving the jerky its signature chewy texture. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean beef (top round, flank steak, or sirloin work best)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1/4 tsp liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness)
Instructions
- Slice the Beef: Place the beef in the freezer for 30-60 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice. Using a sharp knife, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips (about 1/4-inch thick).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chili powder, and liquid smoke (if using).
- Marinate the Beef: Add the beef slices to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°F (82°C). If your air fryer doesn’t go this low, set it to the lowest temperature possible.
- Arrange the Beef: Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Place the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. You may need to cook in batches.
- Cook the Jerky: Air fry for 2-3 hours, flipping the slices halfway through. Check for doneness—the jerky should be dry and firm but still slightly pliable. Thicker slices may take longer.
- Cool and Store: Let the jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Success
- Use lean cuts of beef to avoid excess fat, which can spoil faster.
- For even thinner slices, ask your butcher to slice the meat for you.
- Experiment with different marinade flavors, such as teriyaki, BBQ, or spicy Sriracha.
- If your air fryer doesn’t have a dehydrate setting, use the lowest temperature and keep an eye on the jerky to prevent overcooking.
Conclusion
Air fryer beef jerky is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a homemade version of this classic snack. With minimal effort and a fraction of the time required for traditional methods, you can create flavorful, chewy jerky that’s perfect for snacking or sharing. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!