Teriyaki Beef Jerky
Savory, chewy, and slightly sweet homemade beef jerky with a classic teriyaki glaze. This protein-packed snack is perfect for road trips, hiking, or anytime you need a delicious energy boost. Way better than store-bought!
For 4 servings
5 steps. 240 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Beef
- b.Trim any large, visible pieces of fat from the steak, as fat can spoil more quickly.
- c.For easier slicing, wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 1-2 hours until firm but not frozen solid.
- d.Unwrap the chilled steak and use a very sharp knife to slice it against the grain into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4-inch (3-6mm) thick.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Beef
- b.In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- c.Place the sliced beef in a large zip-top bag or a non-reactive dish. Pour the marinade over the beef.
- d.Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and massage the marinade into the meat to ensure all strips are evenly coated.
- e.Refrigerate and marinate for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours for the best flavor. Flip the bag occasionally.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Set Up for Dehydration
- b.Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, typically between 160-175°F (70-80°C).
- c.Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- d.Place a wire cooling rack on top of the foil-lined baking sheet.
- e.Remove the beef strips from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Pat each strip dry with paper towels to promote even drying.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Dehydrate in the Oven
- b.Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they do not touch or overlap to allow for proper air circulation.
- c.Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Prop the oven door open slightly with the handle of a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape.
- d.Bake for 3 to 5 hours. The exact time will depend on your oven and the thickness of the slices.
- e.The jerky is done when it is dry and leathery but still pliable enough to bend without snapping. Check for doneness starting at the 3-hour mark.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Cool and Store
- b.Remove the jerky from the oven and let it cool completely on the wire rack. It will become firmer as it cools.
- c.Once cooled, store the jerky in an airtight container or zip-top bag. It will keep at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the refrigerator for over a month.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Slicing against the grain results in a more tender jerky. For a classic, chewier texture, slice with the grain.
- 2For the most intense flavor, marinate the beef for a full 24 hours.
- 3Ensure good air circulation around each strip on the rack; this is crucial for even drying.
- 4If you have a food dehydrator, arrange the strips on the trays and dehydrate at 160°F (71°C) for 4-6 hours, or according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 5Patting the beef dry before baking is a critical step that helps create the perfect jerky texture.
- 6Let the jerky cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can cause mold.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Teriyaki
Add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or 1 teaspoon of gochujang to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Smoky TeriyakiSmoky Teriyaki
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of liquid smoke into the marinade for a rich, smoky flavor profile.
Pineapple TeriyakiPineapple Teriyaki
Replace the mirin with 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice. The enzymes in pineapple will also help tenderize the meat.
Honey Ginger TeriyakiHoney Ginger Teriyaki
Substitute the brown sugar with an equal amount of honey and add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a brighter flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, growth, and overall function. A single serving offers a significant protein boost.
Rich in Iron and Zinc
This jerky is a great source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and helps prevent anemia and boost energy levels. It also provides zinc, crucial for immune function and metabolism.
Convenient, Long-Lasting Energy
As a low-carb, high-protein snack, beef jerky provides a steady release of energy without the sugar crash associated with many other portable snacks, making it perfect for active lifestyles.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this homemade Teriyaki Beef Jerky (approximately 55g) contains around 280-300 calories, making it a substantial and energizing snack.