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The BEST Sweet & Spicy Beef Jerky Recipe

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3.9 from 3 reviews

This Sweet & Spicy Beef Jerky recipe offers a tantalizing blend of heat and sweetness, featuring tender slices of lean beef marinated in a rich mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, citrus juices, and fiery habanero peppers. Dehydrated to perfection, it results in a flavorful, chewy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go cravings or party platters.

Ingredients

Beef

  • 10 lbs eye of round or top round beef (trim off fat)

Dry Seasoning

  • 2 tbsp crushed red pepper, divided
  • 2 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp garlic powder
  • 4 tsp black pepper

Marinade

  • 5 habanero peppers (or jalapenos for milder version)
  • 2 cups low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 cups brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1 tbsp liquid smoke

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: If your beef isn’t pre-sliced, partially freeze it for about 1 hour to firm it up. Slice the beef against the grain into approximately 1/4 inch thick strips, or have your butcher slice it for you. Trim off all visible fat to ensure the jerky dries properly and has a longer shelf life.
  2. Mix Dry Seasonings: Combine garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper thoroughly. Using a seasoning shaker or jar with holes will help evenly distribute the seasonings on the beef slices.
  3. Season Beef: Sprinkle and rub the dry seasoning mix evenly on both sides of the sliced beef. Cover and refrigerate the beef for at least 4 hours, or up to 8 hours to allow flavors to penetrate.
  4. Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, fresh orange juice, fresh grapefruit juice, and liquid smoke, leaving out the habaneros and crushed red pepper for now.
  5. Blend Peppers: Blend the habanero peppers (or jalapenos) together with 2 tablespoons of crushed red pepper and about 1/4 cup of the prepared marinade until smooth.
  6. Combine Marinade: Add the blended pepper mixture back into the remaining marinade and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  7. Marinate Beef: Pour the marinade over the seasoned beef slices, massaging and mixing to ensure every slice is well coated. Cover and refrigerate the beef in the marinade for 24 hours to fully absorb the flavors.
  8. Arrange for Dehydration: After marinating, place the beef strips evenly on dehydrator trays. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of crushed red pepper over the top for an extra kick. Group beef slices by thickness on each tray, placing thicker pieces on lower trays near the heat source and thinner ones on top to help even drying.
  9. Start Dehydrating: Set your dehydrator to 160°F (71°C). Dehydration time varies by dehydrator model but typically ranges from 4 to 8 hours. Monitor periodically; rotate trays as needed to promote even drying and swap tray positions if necessary.
  10. Check Doneness: The jerky is done when it holds its shape horizontally without bending and when tearing along the grain reveals white stringy fibers inside. The texture should be firm but still slightly pliable.
  11. Cool and Store: Allow the jerky to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. For best flavor development and texture, let it rest in the container for at least one day before eating. Cut into small strips against the grain for convenient, mess-free snacking.

Notes

  • Partially freezing the beef makes slicing easier and helps achieve uniform thickness.
  • Removing excess fat is crucial because fat does not dry out and can cause spoilage.
  • Using fresh citrus juices adds a nice brightness and helps tenderize the meat.
  • Adjust the amount and type of peppers based on desired spiciness.
  • Grouping beef slices by thickness on trays ensures more even dehydration and consistent texture.
  • If you don’t have a dehydrator, an oven at its lowest temperature with the door slightly ajar can be used, but drying times and results may vary.
  • Store jerky in a cool, dry place and consume within two weeks for optimal freshness.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/the-best-sweet-and-spicy-beef-jerky-recipe/