Making ground beef jerky in a dehydrator is a simple and rewarding process that yields a delicious, protein-rich snack perfect for on-the-go. With a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create your own signature jerky flavors at home. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making ground beef jerky in a dehydrator, covering everything from preparation to storage.
Understanding the Basics of Jerky Making
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of making ground beef jerky, it’s essential to understand the basics of jerky making. Jerky is a type of dried meat snack that’s made by removing the moisture from the meat, either through dehydration or smoking. This process concentrates the flavors and textures of the meat, creating a chewy, savory snack that’s high in protein and low in fat.
Why Use a Dehydrator?
Dehydrators are specialized appliances designed specifically for drying foods, including meats, fruits, and vegetables. Using a dehydrator to make jerky offers several advantages over traditional methods, such as:
- Even drying: Dehydrators circulate hot air evenly, ensuring that your jerky dries consistently and prevents hot spots.
- Temperature control: Dehydrators allow you to set a precise temperature, which is crucial for making jerky. A temperature range of 135°F to 155°F (57°C to 68°C) is ideal for making jerky.
- Faster drying: Dehydrators dry meat faster than traditional methods, such as air drying or smoking.
Preparing Your Ingredients
To make ground beef jerky, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio works best)
- 1/4 cup (60g) soy sauce
- 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15g) smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon (15g) garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon (15g) onion powder
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2g) black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) cayenne pepper (optional)
Choosing the Right Meat
When selecting ground beef for jerky, it’s essential to choose a lean to fat ratio that’s suitable for drying. A ratio of 80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat works best, as it provides enough fat to keep the jerky tender and flavorful.
Mixing Your Seasonings
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This seasoning blend will add depth and complexity to your jerky.
Preparing Your Jerky
Now that you have your ingredients and seasonings ready, it’s time to prepare your jerky.
Ground Beef Preparation
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and seasoning blend. Mix the ingredients together until they’re just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Forming Your Jerky Strips
Using your hands or a jerky gun, form the ground beef mixture into long, thin strips. You can also use a cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drying Your Jerky
Now that your jerky strips are formed, it’s time to dry them in your dehydrator.
Dehydrator Settings
Preheat your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and set the timer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, jerky takes 3-4 hours to dry, depending on the thickness of the strips and the desired level of dryness.
Monitoring Your Jerky
After 3 hours, check on your jerky to see if it’s reached your desired level of dryness. If it’s still too moist, continue to dry it in 30-minute increments until it reaches your desired level of dryness.
Storing Your Jerky
Once your jerky is dry and slightly flexible, it’s ready to be stored.
Airtight Containers
Store your jerky in airtight containers, such as glass jars or plastic bags, to keep it fresh and prevent moisture from entering.
Refrigeration
Store your jerky in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze your jerky for up to 6 months.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your jerky making to the next level:
- Experiment with different seasonings: Try using different seasoning blends, such as Korean chili flakes or Indian spices, to create unique and delicious flavor profiles.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to your jerky mixture for an extra kick.
- Use different types of meat: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or pork to create different flavor profiles and textures.
| Jerky Making Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a meat thermometer | Ensure your jerky reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to prevent foodborne illness. |
| Don’t overmix | Overmixing can lead to tough, dense jerky. Mix your ingredients just until they’re combined. |
By following these steps and tips, you can create delicious, homemade ground beef jerky in your dehydrator. Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to create unique flavor profiles and textures. Happy jerky making!
What is the ideal temperature for dehydrating ground beef jerky?
The ideal temperature for dehydrating ground beef jerky is between 160°F and 170°F. This temperature range allows for the meat to dry slowly and evenly, which helps to preserve its texture and flavor. It’s also important to note that the temperature should be consistent throughout the dehydrating process to ensure that the jerky is cooked evenly.
It’s worth noting that some dehydrators may have a specific temperature setting for jerky, so be sure to check your user manual for guidance. Additionally, it’s a good idea to use a food thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the jerky reaches a safe minimum of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.
How long does it take to dehydrate ground beef jerky in a dehydrator?
The time it takes to dehydrate ground beef jerky in a dehydrator can vary depending on the thickness of the strips, the temperature, and the desired level of dryness. On average, it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours to dehydrate ground beef jerky. It’s best to check on the jerky every hour or so to ensure that it’s not overcooking or undercooking.
It’s also important to note that the jerky will continue to dry out a bit after it’s removed from the dehydrator, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking than overcooking. If you prefer a chewier jerky, you can remove it from the dehydrator after 3-4 hours. If you prefer a crisper jerky, you can leave it in for 5-6 hours.
Can I use a different type of meat to make jerky in a dehydrator?
Yes, you can use different types of meat to make jerky in a dehydrator. While ground beef is a popular choice, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork. You can also use sliced meats like top round or flank steak. The key is to choose a lean cut of meat that is low in fat, as this will help the jerky to dry more evenly.
When using a different type of meat, keep in mind that the cooking time and temperature may vary. For example, poultry may require a slightly higher temperature and shorter cooking time than beef. It’s always a good idea to consult a reliable recipe or the user manual for your dehydrator for specific guidance.
How do I store dehydrated ground beef jerky to keep it fresh?
To keep dehydrated ground beef jerky fresh, it’s best to store it in an airtight container. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. It’s also a good idea to store the jerky in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing the jerky in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can cause it to become stale or rancid.
When storing the jerky, it’s also a good idea to divide it into smaller portions and store them in separate containers. This will help to keep the jerky fresh for a longer period of time. You can also consider vacuum-sealing the containers to remove any air and prevent moisture from entering.
Can I add flavorings or seasonings to my ground beef jerky?
Yes, you can add flavorings or seasonings to your ground beef jerky. In fact, one of the best things about making your own jerky is that you can customize the flavor to your liking. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, or you can try more adventurous flavorings like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce.
When adding flavorings or seasonings, it’s best to mix them into the ground beef before forming it into strips. This will help to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the jerky. You can also try marinating the jerky in a mixture of seasonings and oil before dehydrating it for added flavor.
Is it safe to eat dehydrated ground beef jerky?
Yes, it is safe to eat dehydrated ground beef jerky as long as it is made and stored properly. The dehydration process kills off any bacteria that may be present on the surface of the meat, making it safe to eat. However, it’s still important to follow proper food safety guidelines when making and storing jerky.
To ensure that your jerky is safe to eat, make sure to handle the meat safely and cook it to an internal temperature of at least 160°F. Also, be sure to store the jerky in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated or frozen to prevent spoilage.
Can I make ground beef jerky in a dehydrator without a recipe?
While it’s possible to make ground beef jerky in a dehydrator without a recipe, it’s not recommended. A recipe can provide guidance on the proper temperature, cooking time, and seasoning ratios to use. Without a recipe, you may end up with jerky that is overcooked, underseasoned, or even spoiled.
If you’re new to making jerky, it’s best to start with a tried-and-true recipe and then experiment with different seasonings and flavorings once you get the hang of it. You can find many recipes online or in cookbooks that can provide guidance on making delicious and safe ground beef jerky.