Instructions:
- Slice the beef into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick, cutting against the grain for a tender texture.
- In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add the beef strips to the marinade, making sure they’re well coated. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°F (82°C).
- Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 2–3 hours, flipping the strips halfway through. The jerky is ready when it’s dry but still slightly pliable.
- Let the jerky cool completely on a wire rack before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes to the marinade for more heat.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a few drops of liquid smoke to mimic traditional smoked jerky.
- Sweet and Tangy: Mix in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and honey for a tangy-sweet twist.
- Teriyaki Style: Substitute the Worcestershire sauce with teriyaki sauce and add a dash of ginger powder.
Tips:
- Freeze the steak for 30 minutes before slicing—it helps achieve uniform thin strips.
- Pat the beef strips dry before air frying to reduce moisture and speed up dehydration.
- Store cooled jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Check for doneness by bending a piece—it should bend and crack slightly but not snap.
This homemade air fryer beef jerky is not only convenient and customizable, but it also delivers on bold flavor and satisfying texture. A must-try for snack lovers and DIY food fans alike.
