Old-Fashioned Dried Beef (Jerky-Style)
Ingredients
1 kg lean beef (top round, eye of round, or sirloin)
2 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
Instructions
Slice the beef
Trim off all visible fat.
Slice the beef into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
For easier slicing, freeze the beef for 1 hour first.
Season
In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar.
Add Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce if using.
Rub the mixture all over the beef strips.
Marinate
Cover and refrigerate for 8–12 hours (overnight is best).
Dry the beef
Arrange strips on a wire rack or hang them with space between pieces.
Oven Method
Preheat oven to 70°C (160°F).
Dry for 4–6 hours, leaving the oven door slightly open for airflow.
Sun-Drying Method
Hang in a clean, sunny, airy place covered with thin mesh.
Dry for 2–3 days depending on weather.
Final Step
Beef should be dry, chewy, and firm but not brittle.
Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate longer.
Perfect for a traditional homemade jerky snack.
