Peppered Beef Jerky

A peppery sweet heat beef jerky bursting with flavor as a satisfying meaty snack to satisfy hunger cravings.

This recipe for Peppered Beef Jerky is a flavor explosion with a perfect blend of salty, savory, and spicy tastes. The beef is thinly sliced and marinated in a rich combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and various peppers and spices, including smoked black pepper, Szechuan pepper, garlic pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, and hot sauce. The resulting jerky is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether as a snack or part of a meal, this peppered beef jerky is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Servings

12-16

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

6 hours

Total Time

  • Marinating time: 12 hours (overnight)
  • Dehydration time: 6 hours
  • Total time: Approximately 18 hours and 30 minutes

2 pounds beef eye of round roast
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons ground smoked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground Szechuan pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground garlic pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons light brown sugar

Preparation

  • Place all marinade ingredients into a bowl and whisk until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.
  • Trim any excess surface fat from the beef for better texture and longer shelf life.
  • Slice the beef thinly against the grain into even strips for tender jerky.
  • Transfer the sliced beef to a zip-top bag or container and pour the marinade over the top.
  • Toss and massage to fully coat each piece.
  • Seal and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight, turning occasionally for even flavor.

Cooking

  • Preheat the dehydrator to 165°F.
  • Remove the beef from the marinade and discard any remaining liquid.
  • Pat the strips lightly dry with paper towels to help them dry faster.
  • Arrange the strips in a single layer on dehydrator trays, making sure they do not overlap.
  • Dehydrate for about 6 hours, or until the jerky is dry, firm, and slightly pliable but not brittle.
  • Check a thicker piece by bending — it should crack slightly but not snap.

Serving

  • Let the jerky cool completely to room temperature.
  • Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
  • Enjoy as a snack or pack for travel and hikes.