Are you looking for a delicious snack idea that can be quickly and easily prepared? If so, then the teriyaki jerky recipe might be exactly what you are looking for. This recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for something tasty, with its spicy teriyaki flavor and rich beefy taste. Not only is it easy to make but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for those who don’t have time to cook complex dishes. Plus, it’s an ideal way to use up leftover beef or other meats that may otherwise go bad in the fridge. Read on to learn more about this amazing dish and how to prepare it yourself at home!
What Is Teriyaki Jerky?
Teriyaki jerky is a type of cured meat product made by marinating slices of lean beef in a special mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and spices. The resulting jerky has a sweet and savory flavor that is often enjoyed as a snack or used as an ingredient in various recipes. It’s also an excellent source of protein and nutrients, which makes it a great choice for health-conscious individuals.
Ingredients Needed For Making Teriyaki Jerky
To make teriyaki jerky, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of lean beef (such as top round steak or flank steak)
- ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup of brown sugar
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- Your favorite spices such as black pepper, red pepper flakes, chili powder, etc.
Steps To Prepare The Marinade
Once you have gathered all of your ingredients, it’s time to start preparing the marinade. Start by combining the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and spices together in a bowl until everything is evenly distributed. Then take your sliced beef and place it into the marinade, making sure that each piece is thoroughly coated. Once all of the pieces have been submerged in the marinade, cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Tips For Marinating Your Beef Jerky
It’s important to note that there are certain tips and tricks you should keep in mind when marinating your beef jerky. Firstly, make sure that you do not leave the meat in the marinade for longer than 12 hours as this could lead to the meat becoming too salty. Additionally, if you want to add even more flavor to your jerky try adding some additional spices such as Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika. Finally, when marinating the meat, make sure to stir it every few hours to ensure that all pieces get evenly saturated with the marinade.
Instructions For Cooking The Jerky In The Oven
Once your beef has been properly marinated, preheat your oven to 165°F/74°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the beef strips in an even layer across the pan. Bake for anywhere between 3–4 hours or until the desired texture has been reached. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the slices and your individual oven settings. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
Alternative Methods Of Preparing Teriyaki Jerky
In addition to using the oven method described above, there are several other ways you can prepare teriyaki jerky. You can use a dehydrator to achieve the same result without having to turn on your oven. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you could also try smoking your jerky over an open fire or charcoal grill. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly if you choose one of these alternative methods.
Storing And Reheating Tips
Store any remaining teriyaki jerky in an airtight container in either the refrigerator or freezer. When ready to eat again simply reheat in either a microwave or conventional oven. Make sure to store in single layers so that none of the pieces stick together and always discard any leftovers after three days.
Flavor Variations You Could Try
If you find that plain teriyaki jerky doesn’t quite fit your taste buds there are plenty of variations you can experiment with. Consider replacing some of the regular seasonings with pineapple juice for a sweeter flavor profile. Alternatively, replace half of the soy sauce with hoisin sauce for a more authentic Asian taste experience. Lastly, you could also try adding some hot sauce or Sriracha for a kick of heat!
Serving Suggestions For Teriyaki Jerky
Teriyaki jerky makes a great appetizer or snack and pairs nicely with many different dishes. Serve alongside crispy french fries and veggies for a classic pub style meal or include as part of a charcuterie board with other assorted meats and cheeses. Regardless of how you serve it, we’re sure everyone will love this flavorful treat!
Conclusion
Making homemade teriyaki jerky is both fun and rewarding! With minimal ingredients and effort required, this tasty snack is an excellent way to spruce up any dinner table. Whether served as an appetizer or snack, this simple yet flavorful jerky recipe is sure to become a hit with friends and family alike!
I am an inspired, life-long homesteader with a heart for simple, sustainable living. Growing up surrounded by farmland in the rural Midwest, I developed a deep respect for nature and the rewards of cultivating your own land. That’s why I’m passionate about helping others become homesteaders, too. Through my website therootedhomestead.com, I share my DIY tips, share inspiring stories of other homesteaders, and provide resources for anyone who dreams of growing their own food or living off the land. I hope to open a door to a more joyful, meaningful and purposeful life for all.
