Beef Jerky In Air Fryer at home

Ingredients:

1 pound of lean beef (such as flank steak or sirloin) Marinade ingredients (you can adjust the flavors to your preference):

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional, for smoky flavor)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (adjust to your taste)
• A pinch of salt (optional, as soy sauce is already salty) Instructions:

1. Slice the Beef: Start by partially freezing the beef for about 1-2 hours. This makes it easier to slice into thin strips. Slice the beef against the grain into 1/4-inch thick strips.
2. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Place the beef strips in a Ziploc bag or a bowl, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. This allows the beef to absorb the flavors.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 160-180°F (70-80°C). The low temperature setting is essential for drying out the beef rather than cooking it.
4. Load the Beef Strips: Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Lay the beef strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is some space between each piece.
5. Air Fry the Beef Jerky: Cook the beef at the preheated temperature for about 2-4 hours, depending on the thickness of the strips and your desired level of dryness. It’s essential to check on the jerky periodically, flipping the strips and repositioning them if needed. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific air fryer model.
6. Test for Doneness: Beef jerky is done when it’s dry and firm, but still pliable. If you bend a piece, it should crack but not break completely. The internal temperature of the jerky should reach around 160°F (70°C).
7. Cool and Store: Once the beef jerky is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool completely. If there is any moisture left, it’s not fully dried, and you should continue drying it. Store the jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bags. It can last for several weeks to a few months if stored in a cool, dry place…