Smoked Beef Jerky Recipe with Hickory, Lemon & Sumac – Bold Homemade Flavor

Backcountry Survival and the Best Smoked Beef Jerky

It was the kind of trip that tests your gear, your grit, and your snack game. Three days deep into the Catskills, my buddy Jake and I found ourselves with dwindling supplies and a hunger that only trail-hardened jerky could satisfy. We had packed light, but I had a secret weapon: a batch of homemade hickory-smoked beef jerky infused with lemon and sumac.

As we sat by the fire, the smoky aroma of the jerky mingled with the crisp mountain air. Each bite was a burst of flavor—savory beef, the tang of lemon, the earthy zing of sumac, and that unmistakable hickory smoke. It was more than just sustenance; it was a reminder of home, of the kitchen where I had carefully prepared each strip using my trusty Magic Mill dehydrator.

That jerky didn't just fill our stomachs; it lifted our spirits and fueled our journey back to civilization. Now, every time I make a batch, I'm transported back to that rugged adventure, and I'm reminded of the power of good food in the great outdoors.

Essential Ingredients for Bold, Smoky Jerky

• 2 lbs beef top round or eye of round, thinly sliced against the grain

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons hickory liquid smoke

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon ground sumac

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Smoked Beef Jerky in a Dehydrator

1. Prepare the Beef: Place the beef in the freezer for about 1 hour to firm it up, making it easier to slice. Using a sharp knife, slice the beef into 1/4-inch thick strips against the grain.

2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hickory liquid smoke, brown sugar, lemon juice, ground sumac, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Marinate the Beef: Place the beef strips into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.

4. Prepare for Dehydration: Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange the strips in a single layer on the trays of your Magic Mill dehydrator, ensuring they do not overlap.

5. Dehydrate the Jerky: Set the dehydrator to 160°F (71°C) and dry the beef for 4 to 6 hours. Begin checking for doneness at the 4-hour mark. The jerky is done when it is dry to the touch, has a firm yet pliable texture, and does not break when bent.

6. Cool and Store: Once dehydrated, allow the jerky to cool to room temperature. Store in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. For longer shelf life, refrigerate or freeze the jerky.

Expert Jerky Tips for Texture and Flavor

• Beef Selection: Choose lean cuts like top round or eye of round to minimize fat content, which can cause spoilage.

• Slicing Technique: Slicing against the grain yields a more tender jerky, while slicing with the grain results in a chewier texture.

• Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the beef for at least 8 hours. Longer marination enhances the depth of flavor.

• Testing Doneness: Properly dehydrated jerky should bend and crack slightly but not break. If it snaps, it's overdone; if it feels soft or spongy, it needs more time.

Smoked Beef Jerky Nutrition Facts (Per 1 oz Serving)

• Calories: 116

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 7g

• Carbohydrates: 3g

• Sodium: 300mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Why This Homemade Jerky Belongs in Your Pack

Crafting your own hickory-smoked beef jerky with lemon and sumac is more than just a culinary endeavor; it's a journey that brings the spirit of the outdoors into your kitchen. Each batch is a testament to the flavors of adventure and the satisfaction of homemade goodness.

Ready to embark on your own jerky-making adventure? Check out the Magic Mill dehydrators on Amazon and start crafting your trail-ready snacks today!

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