Description

Learn how to make delicious homemade Teriyaki Beef Jerky using a dehydrator. This easy recipe features thinly sliced top round beef marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger, then dried to perfection. Enjoy a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in this protein-packed snack that’s great for on-the-go or anytime craving.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef

2 lbs top round, sliced ¼ or ⅛-inch thick slices

Marinade

1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup light brown sugar
¼ teaspoon ginger, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
¼ cup pineapple juice
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Slice the Beef: Cut the beef across the grain into ¼ to ⅛-inch thick slices, or ask your butcher to slice it for you to ensure even thickness.
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, light brown sugar, finely chopped ginger, minced garlic, pineapple juice, and sesame seeds (if using). Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves and ingredients are evenly blended.
Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced beef and marinade mixture into a gallon-size plastic bag. Seal and move the contents around to ensure all meat slices are fully coated with the marinade. Refrigerate and marinate for 12 to 24 hours to allow flavors to penetrate.
Drain and Pat Dry: After marinating, drain and discard the marinade. Lay out the beef slices on paper towels and lightly pat any excess liquid to reduce dripping while dehydrating, but avoid drying the meat too much.
Arrange in Dehydrator: Place the marinated beef slices in a single layer on the wire trays of your dehydrator, making sure pieces do not overlap to allow even drying.
Dehydrate the Beef: Set your dehydrator temperature to 165°F (74°C) and dry the beef slices for 4 to 6 hours. Check for doneness periodically after 4 hours.
Test for Doneness: Remove a piece of jerky and let it cool for at least 5 minutes. When bent, it should slightly crack but not snap in half. If it’s still too flexible, continue dehydrating and check again in 30-minute intervals.
Serve and Store: Once done, enjoy your homemade teriyaki beef jerky as a delicious snack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

For best results, slice beef cold or partially frozen to achieve uniform thin slices.
Do not overlap beef slices in the dehydrator trays to ensure consistent drying.
Marinating longer (up to 24 hours) intensifies flavor but does not affect drying time significantly.
If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can use a low oven set to about 170°F with the door slightly ajar to mimic dehydration.
Adjust sweetness by modifying the brown sugar quantity according to preference.
Store jerky in a cool, dry place and consume within 1-2 weeks for best taste and safety.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
Category: Snack
Method: Dehydrating
Cuisine: Japanese-American

Keywords: Teriyaki beef jerky, homemade beef jerky, dehydrator recipe, teriyaki marinade, protein snack, jerky snack