Mediterranean Beef Jerky Recipe Using Magic Mill Dehydrator
| | 5 min read
It was during a sun-drenched hike along the Amalfi Coast that I first encountered the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The salty sea breeze, the aroma of herbs wafting from hillside gardens, and the rustic charm of local markets left an indelible mark on my palate. Inspired by those memories, I sought to capture that essence in a portable form—perfect for my hiking adventures back home. Thus, the Mediterranean Trail Jerky was born, blending the savory notes of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and herbs into tender strips of beef.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Jerky
- 2 lbs lean beef (top round or flank), sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to Make Mediterranean Beef Jerky in a Magic Mill Dehydrator
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, sun-dried tomato paste, chopped olives, honey, garlic, rosemary, oregano, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced beef in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for 12–24 hours, turning occasionally.
- Preheat the Dehydrator: Set your Magic Mill dehydrator to 165°F (74°C).
- Arrange the Beef: Remove beef from the marinade, pat dry with paper towels, and arrange in a single layer on dehydrator trays, ensuring pieces do not overlap.
- Dehydrate: Insert trays into the dehydrator and dry for 4–6 hours, checking periodically. Jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break.
- Cool and Store: Allow jerky to cool completely. Store in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. For longer shelf life, refrigerate or freeze.
Tips for Perfect Beef Jerky Every Time
- Slice Against the Grain: For tender jerky, slice the beef against the grain.
- Consistent Thickness: Ensure uniform thickness for even drying.
- Marination Time: Longer marination enhances flavor; aim for at least 12 hours.
- Storage: Properly dried and stored jerky can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature, and longer when refrigerated or frozen.
Mediterranean Jerky Nutrition Facts (Per 1 oz Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 120
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
Final Thoughts on This Mediterranean Jerky Adventure
This Mediterranean Trail Jerky brings the flavors of coastal Europe to your backpack, offering a savory, protein-rich snack that's perfect for outdoor adventures or everyday enjoyment. The Magic Mill dehydrator ensures consistent results, making the process straightforward and rewarding.
Ready to embark on your own culinary journey? Check out Magic Mill dehydrators on Amazon.
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