How to Make Jerky with a Dehydrator

Jerky is a time-honored method of preserving meat, known for its rich flavor, chewy texture, and impressive shelf life. Traditionally made by marinating thin strips of lean meat in a seasoned mixture before drying, jerky offers a protein-packed, portable snack that’s perfect for outdoor adventures, busy days, or anyone looking for a satisfying bite without the fuss. With endless flavor possibilities—from classic peppered beef to sweet teriyaki or spicy chili—it’s easy to customize jerky to suit any taste

Ingredients:

• 500g to 1kg lean beef (top round, flank, or sirloin work well)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup of water

• 2 tbsp Golden syrup

• 2 tbsp salt

• 1 tbsp of powdered coriander

• 1 tbsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp of Crushed garlic

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Trim the meat:

   • Use lean cuts of beef and trim off all visible fat (fat can cause jerky to spoil faster).

   • Partially freeze the meat for 1–2 hours to make slicing easier.

2. Slice into thin strips:

   • Cut the beef into thin strips, about 3–5mm thick. Cut against the grain for a more tender bite, or with the grain for chewier jerky.

3. Marinate:

   • Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl or zip-lock bag.

   • Add beef strips, making sure they’re fully coated.

   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight.

4. Drain and pat dry:

   • Remove the beef from the marinade and gently pat dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid.

5. Arrange in dehydrator:

   • Lay the strips out in a single layer on your dehydrator trays. Leave space between pieces for proper airflow.

6. Dehydrate:

   • Set your dehydrator to 68–70°C (155–160°F).

   • Dry for up to 12 hours, checking periodically. Drying time varies based on thickness and your dehydrator.

7. Check for doneness:

   • Jerky should be dry but still slightly pliable, not brittle. Tear a piece — it should crack but not snap completely.

8. Cool and store:

   • Let jerky cool completely.

   • Store in an airtight container or zip-lock bag. For longer shelf life, keep in the fridge or freezer.

Tips:

• Add a dash of liquid smoke to your marinade for a smoky flavor.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature hits 70°C (160°F) for safety.

• Try other meats too — turkey, venison, or even plant-based alternatives work well!

Jerky has ancient roots. The word “jerky” comes from the Quechua word ch’arki, meaning "dried, salted meat." Indigenous peoples across the Americas, Africa, and Asia have been preserving meat through drying for centuries. This method was crucial for survival before refrigeration, allowing meat to be stored for long journeys or during lean seasons.

Today, jerky is still valued for its long shelf life, portability, and protein-rich content, making it a popular snack for hikers, athletes, and anyone looking for a savory bite on the go.

Popular Flavors & Seasonings

Jerky can range from simple salt-and-pepper to wildly creative flavors. Common profiles include:

• Classic – salt, pepper, garlic, onion

• Teriyaki – soy sauce, sugar, ginger, sesame

• Spicy – chili flakes, cayenne, jalapeño, or hot sauces

• Sweet & Savory – brown sugar, honey, maple, or pineapple juice

• Smoky – liquid smoke or smoked over woodchips

• Global-inspired – Korean BBQ (bulgogi-style), Indian spices, or Mexican chipotle

You can even make sweet jerky (like candied bacon jerky) or fusion jerky with unique spices, marinades, and glazes.

Spicy Chili Jerky

For heat-lovers! Add more chili if you're brave.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce

• 1 tsp chili flakes

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp brown sugar (optional)

• 1 tsp vinegar or lime juice

Sweet Teriyaki Jerky

A sticky-sweet favorite with a hint of ginger.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey

• 1 tbsp mirin or rice vinegar

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp pineapple juice (optional)

Smoky BBQ Jerky

Bold, tangy, and rich — perfect for smoky flavor fans.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp BBQ sauce

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1 tsp brown sugar or molasses

Korean Bulgogi-Style Jerky

Sweet, salty, and packed with umami.

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp chili paste (gochujang, optional)

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• Sprinkle of sesame seeds (after drying, optional)