HOMEMADE BEEF JERKY

Julia's Green Kitchen

11 months ago

Homemade beef jerky

HOMEMADE BEEF JERKY

When following a carnivore or keto lifestyle, finding the perfect snack that's both satisfying and nutritionally aligned with your goals can be a challenge. This HOMEMADE BEEF JERKY, crafted from thinly sliced shabu shabu meat, is packed with protein, full of flavor, and surprisingly easy to make.

Shabu shabu meat, typically ultra-thin slices of high-quality beef, is a game-changer for jerky-making. You can opt for pre-sliced meat for convenience, manually slice it with a long, sharp knife, or use my personal favorite—a meat slicer—for precise, uniform cuts that make the process a breeze. Its thinness allows for faster dehydration, even seasoning, and a delightful texture that's tender yet satisfyingly chewy. Choose a well-trimmed, lean cut of meat, as fat resists drying and can lead to quicker spoilage. An eye of round roast is an excellent choice—it's budget-friendly, widely available, lean, and simple to trim. To make slicing easier, place the meat in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours before cutting.

Beef jerky is a protein powerhouse, providing essential amino acids that help repair and build muscles. When using well-marbled cuts of beef, jerky can also offer a dose of healthy fats to keep you satiated. Beef is a great source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and immune health. By making it at home, you eliminate processed sugars and artificial preservatives commonly found in commercial jerky. Beef jerky aligns perfectly with ketogenic macros by being high in protein and fats and minimal in carbs. It's a convenient snack to help curb cravings and maintain energy levels. This all-meat snack is pure protein without plant-based fillers, fitting seamlessly into a zero-carb, carnivore-focused lifestyle. Unlike store-bought jerky, which often contains preservatives, sugar, and other additives, homemade jerky gives you full control over ingredients, ensuring a clean and nutritious snack.

Adjust the seasoning to your liking, or keep it plain for a strictly carnivore-friendly version.

Homemade beef jerky made with shabu shabu meat is high in protein, low in carbs, nutrient-dense, and absolutely delicious. It's a portable, long-lasting treat that’s perfect for busy lifestyles or as a quick energy boost between meals. So next time you’re in the mood for a savory snack, skip the store-bought options and create your own clean, flavorful beef jerky at home.

Bon appétit! Your snack is waiting!

Course Snack

Keyword carnivore snack, dehydrated meat, homemade beef jerky, keto snack, meat snack

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3

Calories 635kcal

Equipment

2 wire racks placed over baking sheets

Ingredients

1 lb shabu shabu beef or thinly sliced eye of round roast
1 tsp sea salt

OPTIONAL

½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Carefully remove any visible fat from the meat, ensuring it's as lean as possible.
Lay the meat slices on a clean surface and gently pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Sprinkle salt evenly on both sides of the meat. Add optional spices if desired.
Place the slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Ensure the pieces don’t overlap to allow even drying.
Dehydrate for 3-5 hours at 160-170 F, or until the meat is bendable and dry but doesnt break.
Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (around 160°F/70°C) or use a food dehydrator. Place the beef in the oven and dry for 4–6 hours, flipping the slices halfway through. Dehydrate the meat for 3-5 hours or until it becomes firm and pliable, bending without breaking and no longer releases moisture when pressed.
Once cooled, store the jerky in an airtight container for up to two weeks, or freeze for long-term storage.