Beef jerky is a delicious and flavorful snack that many people enjoy. It is a popular choice for those who are looking for a healthy alternative to sugary snacks. With the Emeril 360 air fryer, making beef jerky at home has never been easier. In this article, we will explore how you can make beef jerky using the Emeril 360 air fryer.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin making beef jerky in the Emeril 360 air fryer, you will need to gather the necessary ingredients. The main ingredient, of course, is beef. Look for lean cuts of meat, such as top round or sirloin. You will also need seasonings to add flavor to your jerky. Popular choices include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Preparation
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare the beef for jerky making. Start by placing your beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to slice the meat into thin strips. After the meat has been chilled, use a sharp knife to cut it against the grain into slices that are about ¼ inch thick.
Marinating the Beef
After slicing the beef, it’s time to marinate it. In a bowl, mix together your chosen seasonings and sauces. You can experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Place the beef slices into the marinade and make sure each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight is preferred for maximum flavor.
Using the Emeril 360 Air Fryer
Once your beef has marinated and absorbed all the delicious flavors, it’s time to start using the Emeril 360 air fryer. This handy kitchen appliance has multiple functions, including air frying, dehydrating, and roasting, making it perfect for beef jerky.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the beef jerky, preheat your Emeril 360 air fryer to 160°F (or the lowest temperature setting available). This will ensure that the beef jerky is cooked evenly and thoroughly without burning.
Arranging the Beef on the Racks
Next, take the marinated beef slices out of the refrigerator and arrange them on the air fryer racks. Make sure to leave space between each piece to ensure proper airflow for dehydration. If needed, you can stack the racks to maximize space, but make sure to rotate them during cooking for even drying.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Set the Emeril 360 air fryer to the dehydrator function and adjust the temperature to 160°F. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your beef slices and personal preference for texture. Generally, it takes about 4-6 hours to dehydrate beef jerky. Keep an eye on the jerky and check its texture regularly to avoid over or undercooking.
Flipping and Rotating
To ensure even drying, flip the beef slices halfway through the cooking process. Also, rotate the racks to ensure that all sides of the jerky have been exposed to the hot air. This will result in uniformly dehydrated and delicious beef jerky.
Storing Your Homemade Beef Jerky
Once your beef jerky is perfectly dehydrated, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool completely. The jerky should be firm but still slightly pliable. If it snaps easily, it may be overcooked and too dry.
Storage Containers
To store your homemade beef jerky, you’ll need an airtight container. Mason jars, ziplock bags, or vacuum-sealed bags are all great options. Make sure the container is clean and dry before transferring the jerky to prevent moisture from spoiling it.
Refrigeration or Room Temperature?
Beef jerky can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks if properly dehydrated and stored in an airtight container. However, if you live in a humid climate or prefer to extend the shelf life, you can store your jerky in the refrigerator. Refrigerated beef jerky can last up to 3 months.
Enjoy Your Homemade Beef Jerky!
Now that you know how to make beef jerky using the Emeril 360 air fryer, it’s time to sit back and enjoy your delicious creation! Homemade beef jerky is a healthy and satisfying snack that you can take with you on the go or enjoy at home. With the Emeril 360 air fryer, you have a convenient and efficient way to make flavorful beef jerky that you’ll love. Get creative with your seasonings and enjoy experimenting with different flavors. So fire up your air fryer and start making your own batch of mouthwatering beef jerky today!