Beef jerky is a popular snack that is loved by many people around the world. It is a great option for those who are looking for a protein-packed treat that is both delicious and easy to make. In this article, we will guide you on how to make beef jerky in a Ninja Air Fryer. This quick and delicious recipe will surely satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more!
Gather the Ingredients
Before we delve into the process of making beef jerky in a Ninja Air Fryer, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need for this scrumptious snack. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
– 1 pound of lean beef (such as sirloin or flank steak)
– ¼ cup of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– ½ teaspoon of black pepper
– ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
Prepare the Beef
To start, you’ll need to prepare the beef for the jerky. It is important to choose a lean cut of meat to ensure that your jerky turns out tender and flavorful. You can opt for sirloin or flank steak, as they work well for this recipe.
Begin by slicing the beef into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick. It’s essential to cut the meat against the grain to achieve a chewy texture. You can place the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes before slicing to make it easier to handle.
Marinate the Beef
Once you have prepared the beef, it’s time to marinate it. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.
Place the beef strips into a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag tightly, making sure to remove any excess air. Massage the marinade into the meat, ensuring that each strip is well coated. Let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for even more flavor.
The Ninja Air Fryer Method
Now that the beef has marinated and absorbed all those delicious flavors, it’s time to fire up your Ninja Air Fryer and start cooking!
Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your Ninja Air Fryer at 160°F for about 10 minutes. Preheating allows the air fryer to reach the desired temperature and ensures even cooking.
Arrange the Beef in the Air Fryer
Once the air fryer is preheated, remove the beef strips from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking.
Cook the Beef
Close the air fryer and set the temperature to 160°F. Allow the beef to cook for about 4-5 hours, flipping the strips halfway through. Cooking times may vary, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the beef and ensure that it doesn’t overcook or undercook.
Check for Doneness
To determine if the beef jerky is done, you can perform a quick test. Take one strip of beef and cut it in half. The interior should be dry and slightly chewy, but not too tough. If the beef is still too moist, you can continue cooking for another 30 minutes and check again.
Cool and Store
Once the beef jerky is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a wire rack to cool. Allowing the jerky to cool completely is crucial, as it helps it become even more firm and flavorful.
After the jerky has cooled down, you can store it in an airtight container or resealable bags. Proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness and prolong its shelf life. The beef jerky can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerated for even longer shelf life.
In conclusion, making beef jerky in a Ninja Air Fryer is a quick and delicious process that can be easily done in your own home. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a protein-packed snack that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. So, grab your Ninja Air Fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering beef jerky!