Traeger Jerky Recipe: Perfect Smoked Peppered Beef Jerky Guide

Making smoked peppered beef jerky at home is a rewarding experience that results in a delicious, protein-packed snack perfect for any occasion. This guide walks you through each step, ensuring your jerky turns out flavorful and perfectly textured every time.

Ingredients

• 1 Bottle (12 oz) dark beer
• 1 Cup soy sauce
• 1/4 Cup Worcestershire sauce
• 3 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 Tablespoon Morton Tender Quick curing salt
• 1/2 Teaspoon garlic salt
• 2 Tablespoons coarse ground black pepper (divided)
• 2 Pounds trimmed beef (top or bottom round, sirloin tip, flank steak, or wild game)

Steps to Make Smoked Peppered Beef Jerky

1. Prepare the Marinade

   • In a medium bowl, combine the dark beer, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, curing salt, garlic salt, and 2 tablespoons of black pepper.

2. Trim and Slice the Beef

   • With a sharp knife, trim any fat or connective tissue from the meat. For easier slicing, partially freeze the meat. Slice the beef into 1/4-inch-thick slices against the grain.

3. Marinate the Beef

   • Place the sliced beef in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the beef, massaging the bag until all slices are well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

4. Prepare the Smoker

   • When ready to cook, set the Traeger temperature to 180℉ and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes. Use Super Smoke if available for optimal flavor.

5. Dry and Season the Beef

   • Remove the beef from the marinade and discard the marinade. Dry the beef slices between paper towels. Sprinkle generously on both sides with the remaining black pepper.

6. Smoke the Jerky

   • Arrange the meat in a single layer directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the jerky is dry but still chewy and somewhat pliant when bent.

7. Cool and Store

   • Transfer the hot jerky to a resealable plastic bag and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour with the bag open. Squeeze out any air from the bag, seal, and refrigerate. The jerky will keep for several weeks.

Tips for Perfect Jerky

• Choosing the Right Meat: Opt for lean cuts to avoid excess fat, which can turn rancid.
• Consistent Slices: Ensure uniform thickness for even drying.
• Proper Storage: Store in an airtight container or vacuum-seal for longer shelf life.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can create your own batch of smoked peppered beef jerky, perfect for snacking or as a high-protein addition to your diet. Experiment with different spices and marinades to create your unique jerky flavor.