Spiced Trail Beef Jerky: A Culinary Journey with Magic Mill
| | 6 min read
During my backpacking trip through the rugged terrains of the Andes, I stumbled upon a local market brimming with vibrant spices and flavors. The aroma of smoked meats and exotic herbs filled the air, igniting a desire to recreate that experience back home. This spiced trail beef jerky recipe is a homage to those adventures, combining the warmth of Andean spices with the convenience of modern dehydrating techniques.
Ingredients for Spiced Trail Beef Jerky
- 2 lbs lean beef (top round or flank), sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Spiced Trail Beef Jerky in a Magic Mill Dehydrator
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
- Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced beef into 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 to ensure even marination.
- Preheat the Dehydrator: Set your Magic Mill dehydrator to 165°F (74°C).
- Arrange the Beef: Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Dehydrate: Insert the trays into the dehydrator and dry for 4–6 hours. Check periodically; the jerky is done when it bends and cracks but does not break.
- Cool and Store: Allow the 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.
Spiced Trail Jerky Nutrition Facts (Per 1 oz Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 130
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
Final Thoughts on This Spiced Trail Jerky Adventure
This spiced trail beef jerky encapsulates the essence of adventure and the rich flavors discovered during travels. Utilizing the Magic Mill dehydrator ensures a consistent and efficient drying process, bringing a taste of the Andes to your home. Whether you're hitting the trails or seeking a flavorful snack, this jerky is your perfect companion.
Embark on your own culinary journey: Explore Magic Mill dehydrators on Amazon.
Leave a comment