How to make beef jerky in a smoker

Step 1

Trim all visible fat from the beef, wrap in plastic wrap, and place in the freezer for an hour or two to partially freeze.

Step 2

While the meat is in the freezer, combine the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, ground black pepper, sea salt, garlic powder, & onion powder in a bowl or ziplock bag and mix well.

Step 3

Remove the meat from the freezer and slice ¼" strips against the grain for an easy chew. Slice with the grain for a chewier jerky. Or skip the freezing phase and use a Jerky Slicer.

Step 4

Add sliced beef to the mixture and marinate for 8-24 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 5

After the meat has finished marinating, remove from refrigerator and strain excess marinade.

Step 6

Pat dry the strips with paper towels.

Step 7

Dry with your Dehydrator, Smoker, or Oven. Click the links or read the post above for more detailed drying information.

Step 8

The jerky is finished when it bends and cracks, but does not break in half.