Snacks

Chili Lime Beef Jerky Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Name: Chili Lime Beef Jerky Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 7 h
Yield: 20
Ingredients: Lean Beef; 1 lb eye of round beef, trimmed; Marinade; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons chili garlic paste; 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar; 1 1/2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice; 1 lime Zest; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon mesquite smoke essence; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon curing salt

Glennis Annis November 5, 2024

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As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve always had a soft spot for snacks that don’t compromise on flavor or health. Chili lime beef jerky combines my favorite elements: it’s easy to make, healthy, and packed with a punch. Trust me; once you try it, you won’t look at store-bought jerky the same way again!

What is Chili Lime Beef Jerky?

Chili lime beef jerky is a dried meat snack that stands out due to its bold flavors. Thinly sliced, marinated beef is dehydrated to create something chewy and addictive.

The combination of chili and lime introduces a zesty kick, while the smoke essence rounds it all out with a sumptuous depth. Beef jerky has a rich history and has been a reliable source of protein for many cultures, but this particular recipe puts a refreshing spin on a classic.

Why This Recipe Works?

You might wonder why this specific recipe yields such fantastic results. It’s all about balance. The marinade here combines sweet, sour, spicy, and savory elements, making each bite an explosion of flavor.

The Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce contribute umami, while the chili garlic paste adds spice. The sugar counters the heat perfectly, and lime juice—it all comes together beautifully.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Before diving into the how-to section, here’s your grocery list:

Lean Beef

1 lb eye of round beef, trimmed

Marinade

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

2 tablespoons chili garlic paste

1 tablespoon dark brown sugar

1½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

Zest from 1 lime

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon mesquite smoke essence

½ teaspoon fine sea salt

¼ teaspoon curing salt

With these ingredients, you’re all set to embark on a culinary adventure.

How to Make Chili Lime Beef Jerky?

The process is not complicated. It’s about marinating and dehydrating, but each step is crucial to achieving flavorful jerky.

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice your beef across the grain into thin strips. Aim for about ¼ inch in thickness. Thinner slices will yield crunchier jerky, while thicker ones will be chewy. Pick your preferred texture!

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Make sure the sugar dissolves completely. Once mixed, add the beef slices, turning them to coat. The longer you marinate, the better the flavor.

Step 3: Marinate Time

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is truly where the magic happens. This is where the meat soaks in all those flavors.

Step 4: Prepare for Dehydration

After marinating, remove the beef from the marinade. Pat it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent proper dehydration. Lay the beef strips on the dehydrator trays or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Dehydrate

Set your dehydrator to 155°F (68°C) and let it run for 4-6 hours. If you’re using an oven, set it to the lowest temperature (usually around 170°F or 77°C) and keep the door slightly ajar for airflow. Check periodically; your jerky is done when it bends without breaking.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once dehydrated, let the jerky cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container. I recommend vacuum sealing for the best shelf life.

Tips for Making the Best Chili Lime Beef Jerky

Select the Right Cut: Eye of round is lean, but cuts like flank steak or sirloin work too. Fat equals spoilage.
Experiment with Spice: Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for even more heat or adjust chili garlic paste to your preferred spice level.
Safety First: Use curing salt if you plan to keep the jerky for extended periods or if you’re not refrigerating it.
Enjoy Freshness: Ensure your jerky cools down completely before sealing. Trapped moisture can lead to spoilage.
Customize the Zing: Try adding other acidic fruit juices, like orange or lemon, for a different zest.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store your chili lime beef jerky in an airtight container. It can last up to a month at room temperature and longer if kept in the fridge. Use parchment between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

How Would I Recommend Serving Chili Lime Beef Jerky?

1. As an Appetizer
Serve it on a platter with cheese cubes and whole-grain crackers. It makes a tempting starter that stirs conversation.

2. On a Salad
Crumble pieces over a fresh garden salad for added protein and flavor. The tanginess of the jerky complements mild dressings nicely.

3. During Outdoor Activities
Perfect for hiking or camping, this beef jerky is lightweight and packed with protein, keeping you energized for all your adventures.

4. In a Trail Mix
Incorporate chunks of jerky into homemade trail mix with nuts and dried fruit. It adds that chewy texture that’s satisfying.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

1. Beef Alternatives: Turkey or Chicken Breast
These lean meats can also work well. They will yield a different flavor but still provide a great snack.

2. Worcestershire Sauce: Liquid Aminos
This gives a similar umami flavor without the gluten, perfect for those avoiding soy products.

3. Chili Garlic Paste: Sriracha or Hot Sauce
Both provide spice, but sriracha will add a sweeter note compared to chili garlic paste.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar: Rice Vinegar
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, rice vinegar offers a milder taste that works just as well.

Conclusion

I hope this journey into making chili lime beef jerky has sparked your culinary curiosity. With approachable steps and versatile possibilities, you can craft a flavorful snack that’s bound to impress friends and family alike. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a nourishing yet flavorful treat. So grab your ingredients, fire up your dehydrator or oven, and let the adventures in taste begin. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without this zesty snack! Happy snack-making!

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Print Recipe

Chili Lime Beef Jerky Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Author: Glennis Annis Cuisine: American Courses: Snacks

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 1 hr Cook Time 6 hrs Total Time 7 hrs

Servings: 20 Calories: 16 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

chili lime beef jerky recipe

Fresh guacamole and tortilla chips create a delightful pairing that contrasts the creaminess of the dip with the satisfying crunch of the chips. This combination enhances the experience of enjoying spicy jerky, inviting laughter and sharing among friends.

For a more adventurous flavor, consider spicy pineapple salsa. The sweet and savory notes come together beautifully, with the bright acidity of pineapple balancing the heat, offering a refreshing complement to the jerky.

Nothing beats the classic pairing of jerky with a cold drink, be it a craft beer or a fizzy soda. Both options help nullify the spice and refresh your palate, making them ideal accompaniments.

Finally, a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar, pepper jack, and creamy brie adds variety to your spread. The assortment of textures and flavors provides a delightful distraction from the bold heat of the jerky, rounding out the tasting experience perfectly.

Ready for the big reveal? Let’s dive into all the nitty-gritty details of how you can whip up your very own chili lime beef jerky at home!