Beef jerky is a popular and delicious snack that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a lean and protein-packed treat that is perfect for those looking to add some variety to their snacking options. While beef jerky can be found in stores, many people prefer to make their own to ensure quality and taste. In this article, we will discuss how to make beef jerky in the Ninja Air Fryer Dehydrator, providing you with a step-by-step guide to achieve the perfect homemade beef jerky.
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before diving into the process of making beef jerky, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of lean beef (such as top or bottom round)
– ⅓ cup of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper (freshly ground)
Equipment:
– Ninja Air Fryer Dehydrator
– Sharp knife
– Cutting board
– Mixing bowl
– Ziplock bags or airtight container for storage
Preparing the Beef
The first step in making beef jerky is preparing the meat. Start by placing the beef in the freezer for about an hour. This will make it easier to slice the meat into thin strips. While the meat is chilling, you can prepare the marinade.
Making the Marinade
The marinade is a crucial component of beef jerky, as it adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), garlic powder, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the honey (or brown sugar) is fully dissolved.
Slicing the Meat
Once the beef has chilled in the freezer, take it out and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. The thickness of the slices should be about ¼ inch. Keep in mind that thinner slices will result in a crispier jerky, while slightly thicker slices will be chewier.
Marinating the Beef
Place the sliced beef strips in a ziplock bag or airtight container and pour the marinade over them. Ensure that every piece of meat is covered in the marinade, as this will enhance the flavor and tenderness. Seal the bag or container, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This allows the meat to absorb the flavors of the marinade fully.
Dehydrating the Beef
Now, it’s time to fire up your Ninja Air Fryer Dehydrator. Preheat it to 160°F (71°C), which is the optimal temperature for dehydrating beef jerky. While the dehydrator is preheating, remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Arranging the Beef in the Dehydrator
Arrange the beef strips in a single layer on the dehydrator racks, ensuring that they don’t overlap. This allows for proper air circulation and even drying. Depending on the size of your dehydrator, you may need to dehydrate the beef in batches.
Dehydrating Time
The time it takes to dehydrate beef jerky can vary depending on the thickness of the slices and the desired level of moisture. Generally, it will take around 4-6 hours for the beef jerky to dry completely. However, it’s essential to regularly check the jerky to prevent over-drying.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the beef jerky is done, remove a piece from the dehydrator and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, gently bend the jerky; it should bend but not break. If it cracks or breaks, it means it has been dehydrated for too long. If it feels soft or pliable, it needs more drying time. When properly dehydrated, the jerky should be dry to the touch, with just a slight hint of moisture.
Storing Your Homemade Beef Jerky
After the beef jerky has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container or ziplock bags to maintain its freshness. It’s best to consume the jerky within 2-3 weeks, as it does not contain any preservatives like the store-bought versions. You can also refrigerate or freeze the beef jerky for longer shelf life.
Enjoy Your Homemade Beef Jerky
Congratulations! You have successfully made your own beef jerky in the Ninja Air Fryer Dehydrator. Take a moment to appreciate your accomplishment and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor. Homemade beef jerky not only tastes fantastic, but it also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking, making it a memorable snacking experience for you and your loved ones.
In conclusion, making beef jerky in the Ninja Air Fryer Dehydrator is a simple and enjoyable process. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create your own tender and flavorful beef jerky right at home. So, why not give it a try and impress everyone with your homemade beef jerky skills? Happy dehydrating!