Beef Jerky Recipe for Traeger Smoker
Introduction
Growing up in Texas, I have always been a fan of beef jerky. It’s a great snack for road trips, hiking, or just when you need a quick protein boost. But store-bought jerky can be expensive and loaded with preservatives and artificial flavors. That’s why I started making my own beef jerky using a Traeger smoker.
In this article, I’ll share my go-to beef jerky recipe using a Traeger smoker. I’ll also explain the benefits of making your own jerky and provide expert tips for getting the best results. So let’s get started!
Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs of beef (flank steak or London broil work well)
- 1/2 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tsp of black pepper
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of onion powder
- 1 tsp of smoked paprika
- 1 tsp of liquid smoke
Instructions:
- Trim any excess fat from the beef and slice it into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
- In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and liquid smoke.
- Add the beef strips to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours for a stronger flavor).
- Preheat your Traeger smoker to 180°F.
- Remove the beef strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Arrange the beef strips on the smoker grates, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Smoke the beef for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. (I like mine a little chewy, so I smoke it for 5 hours.)
- Remove the beef from the smoker and let it cool completely.
- Store the beef jerky in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks (if it lasts that long!).
Benefits of Homemade Beef Jerky
Making your own beef jerky has several advantages:
- You know exactly what’s in it. Store-bought jerky often contains additives, preservatives, and excessive amounts of sodium.
- You can customize the flavor to your liking. Experiment with different marinades and spices to find your perfect blend.
- You can save money. Beef jerky can be expensive, but making your own can be much more cost-effective.
- You can control the quality of the meat. Choose grass-fed, organic beef for a healthier and more sustainable option.
Plus, it’s just plain fun to make your own jerky!
Expert Tips
Here are a few tips for getting the best results with your Traeger beef jerky:
- Use a lean cut of beef, such as flank steak or London broil, for the best texture.
- Trim any excess fat from the meat before slicing it into strips.
- Marinate the beef for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours for a stronger flavor).
- Pat the beef strips dry with paper towels before smoking them to remove any excess marinade.
- Don’t overlap the beef strips on the smoker grates, as this can cause uneven cooking and smoking.
- Keep an eye on the temperature of your smoker and adjust it as needed to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Let the beef jerky cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Experiment with different marinades and spices to find your favorite flavor combination.
FAQs
How long does homemade beef jerky last?
If stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade beef jerky can last up to 2 weeks.
What type of beef is best for making jerky?
Choose a lean cut of beef, such as flank steak or London broil, for the best texture.
Do I need a Traeger smoker to make beef jerky?
No, you can make beef jerky using other types of smokers or even in your oven. However, a Traeger smoker adds a delicious smoky flavor to the jerky.
Can I freeze homemade beef jerky?
Yes, you can freeze homemade beef jerky for up to 6 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
What other meats can I use to make jerky?
You can use other types of meat, such as chicken, turkey, or even fish, to make jerky. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.