Teriyaki Beef Jerky Strips are a savory, slightly sweet snack made with tender slices of beef marinated in a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce. Slowly dried until chewy and satisfying, this protein-packed jerky is perfect for fueling summer adventures, road trips, or anytime you need a wholesome, portable snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Homemade beef jerky is not only delicious but also allows you to control the flavor and quality of your ingredients. Here’s why you’ll enjoy making and eating these strips:
- Rich teriyaki flavor with the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- A protein-packed snack ideal for on-the-go fuel.
- Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients.
- No dehydrator required—just your oven.
- Long-lasting, portable, and great for meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the beef slices to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 175°F (80°C).
- Arrange the marinated beef slices in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Bake for 3–4 hours, or until the beef is dry, firm, and slightly pliable.
- Let cool completely before storing.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Servings: 10 servings
- Calories: 90 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Smoky version: Use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for added depth.
- Sweeter option: Increase the honey for a more pronounced sweet teriyaki flavor.
- Gluten-free: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce.
- Citrus twist: Add a splash of orange or pineapple juice to the marinade.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
- Reheating: Not necessary—jerky is meant to be eaten as-is.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, top round or eye of round also work well for jerky.
How thin should I slice the beef?
Aim for slices about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick for even drying.
Do I need a dehydrator?
No, this recipe is designed for oven drying.
Can I marinate for less than 6 hours?
For best flavor, marinate at least 6 hours. A shorter time may result in a milder taste.
How do I know when the jerky is done?
It should be dry and firm but bend slightly without breaking.
Is this jerky high in protein?
Yes, it is a protein-rich snack ideal for energy and satiety.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, adjust the sugar and honey to your taste.
Is homemade jerky shelf-stable?
It can be stored at room temperature short-term, but refrigeration extends freshness.
Can I use ground beef?
This recipe is intended for whole muscle meat; ground beef requires a different method.
What can I serve with beef jerky?
It pairs well with nuts, dried fruit, or fresh veggies for a balanced snack.
Conclusion
Teriyaki Beef Jerky Strips are a delicious, homemade snack that combines the bold flavors of teriyaki with the satisfying chew of dried beef. Simple to prepare and perfect for travel, hiking, or daily snacking, this jerky delivers taste and nutrition in every bite. Make a batch and enjoy a protein-packed treat whenever hunger strikes.
Print
Teriyaki Beef Jerky Strips
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Savory, slightly sweet beef jerky marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce—chewy, protein-packed, and perfect for snacking on summer adventures.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced thin against grain
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper.
- Add beef slices and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 175°F (80°C).
- Arrange beef slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Dry in the oven for 3–4 hours until firm but still slightly pliable.
Notes
- For spicier jerky, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
- Freezes well for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Snack
- Method: Oven-Dried
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
