Doc’s Beef Jerky Recipe: Easy Homemade Snack Guide

Originally posted on December 22, 2016 @ 5:42 am

If you’re a fan of savory snacks with a punch of flavor and a chewy texture, then Doc’s Beef Jerky Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary arsenal. Whether you’re preparing for a camping trip, looking for a high-protein snack, or simply want to impress your friends with homemade jerky, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

With a perfect blend of spices and a simple curing process, Doc’s jerky is tender yet packed with bold flavors that linger long after the first bite.

This recipe is straightforward, requires only a handful of ingredients, and can be made with a dehydrator or an oven. Not only will you avoid preservatives and additives found in store-bought jerky, but you’ll also have the flexibility to customize the seasoning to suit your taste buds.

Get ready to embark on a delicious journey of making one of the best beef jerkies at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Doc’s Beef Jerky Recipe stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and texture. The marinade infuses the meat deeply, ensuring every bite is savory and satisfying.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can tweak the spice level or add your favorite herbs to make it your own.

Making jerky at home is also a healthier alternative to store-bought options. You control the ingredients, reduce sodium if you prefer, and avoid artificial preservatives.

The recipe is budget-friendly too, turning inexpensive cuts of beef into a gourmet snack that’s perfect for on-the-go munching.

Best of all, this jerky stores well and lasts for weeks, making it ideal for meal prepping, hiking, or just having a ready-to-eat protein boost in your pantry.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean beef (top round or flank steak works best)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon curing salt (Prague Powder #1) – optional but recommended for preservation

Equipment

• Sharp knife for slicing the beef thinly
• Cutting board
• Large resealable plastic bag or airtight container for marinating
• Dehydrator or oven with a low temperature setting
• Baking sheet and wire racks (if using an oven)
• Tongs or gloves for handling the meat
• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking jerky doneness)

Instructions

1. Freeze the beef for about 1 hour until slightly firm. This makes slicing easier and ensures thin, even strips.
2. Slice the beef</ into thin strips about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, cutting against the grain for tender jerky or with the grain for chewier texture.
3. Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and curing salt (if using) in a bowl. Mix until sugar dissolves.
4. Place the beef strips into a large resealable plastic bag or container and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal and massage the marinade into the beef for even coating.
5. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
6. Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps with efficient drying.
7. If using a dehydrator, arrange the strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, making sure they do not overlap.
8. If using an oven, preheat to 160°F (70°C). Place wire racks on baking sheets and arrange the beef strips in a single layer on the racks to allow airflow.
9. Dry the beef in the dehydrator or oven for 4-8 hours, checking periodically. The jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break in half.
10. Cool the jerky to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade. For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add cayenne powder.

If you want a sweeter jerky, try adding honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.”

Here are some other great ways to modify Doc’s Beef Jerky Recipe:

• Use turkey or chicken breast as a leaner alternative for poultry jerky.
• For a tangier bite, add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the marinade.
• Experiment with Asian-inspired flavors by adding ginger powder and a splash of sesame oil.
• Try marinating with liquid aminos if you want a soy-free option.
• Use different cuts of beef like sirloin tip or eye of round for varying textures.

Don’t forget to always slice the meat against the grain for the most tender jerky, and keep the slices uniform in thickness for even drying.

Nutrition Facts

These values can vary depending on your choice of marinade ingredients and meat cut, but overall, homemade jerky is a protein-packed snack with moderate fat and carbs, ideal for those watching their macros.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Doc’s Beef Jerky as a standalone snack, perfect for hiking, road trips, or just a midday protein boost. It pairs wonderfully with cheese and crackers for a quick charcuterie-style plate.

You can also chop the jerky and add it to salads or scrambled eggs for an extra savory punch. If you’re looking for a creative twist, try breaking it into smaller pieces and mixing it into trail mix with nuts and dried fruit.

For meal prep enthusiasts, jerky makes a fantastic addition to lunch boxes, providing long-lasting energy without refrigeration.

Conclusion

Making your own beef jerky at home with Doc’s recipe is both rewarding and delicious. With simple, wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a snack that rivals store-bought versions in flavor and quality.

Not only does homemade jerky allow you to control the seasoning and texture, but it also ensures you’re consuming a preservative-free, high-protein treat.

Whether you’re a seasoned jerky lover or a curious beginner, this recipe offers a great starting point. Plus, the variations and tips make it easy to customize, so you’ll never get bored.

Be sure to try it out and share with friends and family — they’ll be impressed by your jerky-making skills!

For more tasty homemade snack ideas and easy recipes, check out Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, or if you’re interested in healthy meal prep, explore Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping.

For a flavorful vegetarian option, try the Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

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