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When you’re on the go, nothing beats the convenience and satisfaction of a good beef jerky. For busy carnivores like us, beef jerky isn’t just a snack; it’s a high-protein, flavorful powerhouse that fuels our active lives.
But why settle for store-bought when you can whip up your own batch of mouthwatering jerky at home? Here are 9 homemade beef jerky recipes that will make you wonder why you didn’t start making your own sooner.
1. Carnivore Purist Jerky
For the strict carnivore, keeping it simple is key. Carnivore Purist Jerky focuses exclusively on meat and salt, letting the natural flavors shine. Start with a lean cut of meat like beef round or flank steak and slice it thinly.
Sprinkle generously with salt—regular or smoked for an added depth of flavor.
Dehydrate the seasoned meat in your oven or dehydrator until perfectly chewy (or crunchy if that is your preferred texture)!
Note: The following recipes include seasonings and marinades that may not align with a strict carnivore diet. These recipes are perfect for those who enjoy variety and don’t mind small amounts of non-carnivore ingredients like spices, soy sauce, or sweeteners. For a purist approach, stick to meat, salt, and optional animal-based additions.
2. Classic Peppered Beef Jerky
Let’s kick things off with a timeless favorite: classic peppered beef jerky. This recipe keeps it simple with just the right balance of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a generous dose of black pepper.
Start by thinly slicing your beef—top round or flank steak works best. Marinate it overnight, then dehydrate until perfectly chewy. The peppery kick makes this jerky irresistible, and it’s a perfect staple for your jerky collection.
Get the full recipe at Hey Grill Hey.
3. Sweet and Spicy Jerky
If you like your jerky with a little heat and a touch of sweetness, this one’s for you. The secret is in the blend of honey and red pepper flakes, creating a perfect balance that dances on your taste buds.
After slicing your beef, marinate it in a mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Let it soak in those flavors overnight, then dehydrate to chewy perfection. The sweet and spicy combo is sure to keep you reaching for more, and it’s a great way to satisfy cravings without compromising your carnivore diet.
Try this recipe from The Recipe Bandit.
4. Teriyaki Beef Jerky
Bring a taste of the East to your jerky game with this delicious teriyaki beef jerky. The marinade is what makes this recipe stand out, featuring soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. Slice your beef as thin as possible for the best texture, and let it marinate in the fridge overnight.
The brown sugar caramelizes during dehydration, giving the jerky a slightly sweet, savory flavor that’s totally addictive. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their snacks but still want that deep umami flavor.
For a full guide, check out Hey Grill Hey.
5. Smoky Chipotle Jerky
For those who crave a smoky, spicy kick in their jerky, this smoky chipotle jerky recipe is your go-to snack. Start by selecting a lean cut of beef, like an eye of round, and trimming off any visible fat. After partially freezing the meat for easy slicing, prepare a bold marinade with Worcestershire sauce, chipotle chili pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, liquid smoke, and a touch of salt.
Let the beef soak up all those intense flavors in the refrigerator for 6-24 hours. Once marinated, pat the slices dry, sprinkle on extra chipotle chili pepper for an extra punch, and then dehydrate until perfectly chewy. The result? A jerky that’s smoky, spicy, and satisfying, making it the perfect companion for outdoor adventures or a post-workout boost.
Get the tasty recipe from Jerkyholic.
6. Garlic Lovers’ Beef Jerky
Garlic fans, this one’s for you! If you can’t get enough of that robust garlic flavor, this garlic lover’s beef jerky will hit the spot. The marinade is loaded with garlic powder and fresh minced garlic, along with soy sauce and a bit of black pepper.
Marinate your thinly sliced beef in this garlic-rich mixture overnight, then dehydrate until it’s firm but still chewy. The intense garlic flavor makes this jerky a standout, and it’s perfect for those who crave something bold and savory. It’s a flavor-packed snack that’s sure to keep vampires (and hunger) at bay.
Check out the recipe at Jerkyholic.
7. Korean BBQ Jerky
Take your jerky game international with this Korean BBQ-inspired recipe. The marinade combines soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar, mimicking the flavors of classic Korean BBQ.
Thinly sliced beef is marinated in this savory mix, then dehydrated until it reaches the perfect jerky consistency. The result is a jerky that’s packed with umami flavor, a little sweet, and wonderfully tender. It’s a unique twist on traditional beef jerky that you’ll love. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce some global flavors into your carnivore diet.
Get the full recipe at Jerkyholic.
8. Sweet Sesame Venison Jerky
Get ready for a flavor-packed adventure with this bold and spicy jerky recipe! Start by trimming all visible fat from your venison or beef roast, then partially freeze it for easy slicing.
While the meat chills, blend a mouthwatering marinade of soy sauce, rice wine, Fresno chili, brown sugar, garlic powder, sesame seeds, sesame oil, and ginger powder. Marinate the sliced meat for 6-24 hours, letting those flavors soak in. After drying in your dehydrator, you’ll have a perfectly chewy, smoky, and slightly sweet jerky with a kick that’ll keep you coming back for more!
Check out the recipe at Jerkyholic.
9. Salmon Jerky
If you love salmon, this salmon jerky recipe will blow you away! With a perfect blend of smoky, salty, and lightly sweet flavors, it’s a must-try for any seafood enthusiast. Start with wild-caught sockeye salmon, slice it into strips, and marinate it in a savory mix of soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, black pepper, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and curing salt. After marinating, dehydrate the strips until perfectly dried. The result? Delicious, homemade salmon jerky that’s way better than anything store-bought!
Try this recipe from Jerkyholic.
Jerky That’s Worth the Effort
There you have it — 9 homemade beef jerky recipes that will satisfy your carnivorous cravings and keep you energized throughout the day. Making your own jerky at home allows you to control the flavors, the ingredients, and the texture, ensuring you get exactly what you want in every bite.
Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding way to fuel your body with the protein it needs. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, sweet, or smoky flavors, these recipes have something for everyone. So grab your favorite cut of beef, fire up the dehydrator, and start jerking it good! Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you.
If you’re looking for even more variety, consider a jerky subscription service like Jerky Club that delivers different flavors and styles right to your door. It’s an effortless way to explore new tastes and enjoy a constant supply of high-quality jerky. Now go ahead and share these recipes with your fellow carnivores. Trust me, they’ll appreciate the delicious, homemade goodness that only a true jerky aficionado can deliver. Happy jerky-making!
