Are you looking to impress your family and friends with homemade beef jerky that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! With your handy smoker, you can create your own delicious Easy Beef Jerky right at home. This recipe combines simple ingredients with a few hours of smoking to produce a snack that’s perfect for road trips, movie nights, or just satisfying those midday cravings.
**Easy Beef Jerky Smoker**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs. top round beef, thinly sliced
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp liquid smoke (optional for extra smokiness)
**Instructions:**
1. Start by slicing the top round beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Make sure to trim off any excess fat as this will help the jerky dry properly.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke (if using). This marinade will infuse the beef with a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
3. Place the sliced beef into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top. Toss the beef strips to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat your smoker to 160°F (71°C). If your smoker has a water pan, fill it with water to help maintain moisture during the smoking process.
5. Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange the strips on the smoker racks, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
6. Place the racks in the smoker and let the beef jerky smoke for 4-6 hours, or until the jerky reaches your desired level of chewiness. Check the jerky periodically and rotate the racks if needed for even smoking.
7. Once the beef jerky is done smoking, remove it from the smoker and let it cool completely before storing. The beef jerky can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or longer if stored in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your homemade Easy Beef Jerky straight out of the smoker or pack it for your next outdoor adventure. The combination of savory soy sauce, tangy Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar makes this beef jerky a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Plus, the satisfaction of making your own jerky at home is truly rewarding. So fire up that smoker and get ready to savor the delicious flavors of this Easy Beef Jerky recipe!
