How To Make Homemade Beef Jerky Last Longer

A relatively shelf-stable food, beef jerky is an excellent source of protein for a nutritious snack that you can easily grab and take on the go. There are plenty of reputable store-bought beef jerky brands to choose from, but nothing quite as satisfying as the taste of a freshly homemade batch. The tell-tale signs that your beef jerky has gone bad include a rancid smell, overly dried-out texture, and worst of all, mold. If you're planning on preparing a beef jerky recipe, take comfort in knowing there are many methods to better preserve your already preserved beef snack so that it will be good to eat for even longer. In addition to using quality ingredients and proper methods for dehydrating your meat, the most important tip to keep in mind is refrigeration. Storing your beef jerky in the fridge stretches its shelf life to maximize your enjoyment.

Refrigerating your homemade beef jerky is a solid strategy not only for more effectively keeping your beef jerky intact but also to adjust the flavor and texture by way of chilling it. By altering the taste and consistency ever so slightly, this method makes your beef jerky the gift that keeps on giving, allowing you to experiment with different methods to find your favorite style of homemade jerky. With this tip in mind, feel free to explore the many amazing ways to beef up your beef jerky with any of your favorite flavors and seasonings.

Starting with a top round or London broil is the absolute best cut of steak to make your own beef jerky. From there, it's up to you to choose what seasonings, spices, and marinades you'd like for a truly flavorful snack. With regard to marinades, using beer or even dark sodas like colas or root beer are excellent for infusing flavor, provided that you let the meat marinate for at least six hours to give the beef time to tenderize and absorb everything. Crushed red chili flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper are all ideal for bringing a robust level of heat to the mix.

If you prefer a beef jerky that leans more towards the sweeter side, try using brown sugar or teriyaki sauce for your marinade. Bring a balance between sweet and heat by mixing up a blend of Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, liquid smoke, and your favorite hot peppers to marinate your meat. Remember: The best beef jerky is one that's been prepared thoughtfully and stored properly.