There are generally two ways to flavor beef jerky: marinades and rubs. Beef Jerky marinades are liquid based recipes that usually consist of herbs, spices, and a liquid, such as citrus, vinegar, or sauce (soy, worcestershire, etc). Rubs are dry and consist of spices or dried herbs, like salt and seasonings.
The main difference is rubs typically flavor the meat only, while marinades also help to tenderize the meat.
Using a marinade is a great way to flavor beef jerky. Tender, lean meats tend to make more flavorful jerky.
To make an excellent beef jerky marinade, follow the recipe below for one pound of lean beef. This beef jerky marinade works well because the acidic vinegar helps to tenderize the meat, while the sugar, soy, and salt add flavor. Keep in mind, the salt also helps to keep the jerky for storage.
EZ Jerky
- 5 teaspoons salt
- 5 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 ½ cup soy sauce
- 1 cup red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Another easy, basic marinade is the Bottle of Soy Jerky recipe. This recipe uses mainly liquid, aside from a splash of pepper. Its a good option if you prefer to avoid vinegar. Beef jerky that is marinaded in soy sauce doesn’t taste flat out like soy sauce. The soy sauce gives it a nice subtle flavor and the other spices and sauces also come through.
Bottle of Soy Jerky
- 16 oz soy sauce
- 2 oz liquid smoke
- 2 oz Worcestershire sauce
- 2 oz tabasco sauce
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
I encourage you to try out both marinades and rubs to see which you enjoy more! The Great American Jerky Cookbook has 52 recipes, both marinades and rubs in all types of flavors.
Don’t forget, you don’t need many special tools to start making beef jerky at home. Check out the tools of the trade and find what you need to get started. You can make beef jerky in your oven or a dehydrator.
