Struggling to find a satisfying, carnivore-friendly snack that’s as convenient as it is flavorful? Meet your new favorite: simple spicy beef jerky.
This recipe brings together the perfect blend of savory spices and high-quality beef to create a snack that’s not only packed with protein but also zero-carb, keto-friendly, and delicious.
Say goodbye to store-bought options filled with additives and hello to a healthier, homemade version.
Why Homemade Jerky Is Better
Store-bought jerky often comes loaded with hidden sugars, preservatives, and unnecessary additives.
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By making your own, you control every ingredient. The result? A snack that’s lean, clean, and perfect for anyone following the carnivore diet.
Plus, the deep flavor of this jerky comes from a robust spice blend that you can adjust to suit your taste preferences.
Tips for Perfecting the Texture
Getting the texture just right is key to making great beef jerky. Here are some tips to ensure your jerky turns out perfectly every time:
- Freeze the beef before slicing: Partial freezing makes it easier to slice the meat thinly and evenly, which helps it dehydrate uniformly.
- Slice against the grain: This ensures the jerky is tender and easier to chew.
- Avoid fatty cuts: Fat doesn’t dry well and can lead to spoilage. Stick with lean cuts like top round or flank steak.
Customizing Your Jerky Flavor
One of the best parts of homemade jerky is how customizable it is. Here are a few ways to tweak the flavor:
- Spice it up: Increase the cayenne or chili powder for extra heat.
- Keep it simple: Omit the garlic powder if you’re following a strict carnivore diet.
- Experiment with meats: Swap beef for venison or another game meat for a unique twist.
The possibilities are endless, and you’ll love experimenting to find your perfect flavor combination.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even experienced home cooks can make mistakes with jerky. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Skipping the freezing step: This can make slicing the meat evenly nearly impossible.
- Cutting the meat too thick: Thick pieces take much longer to dehydrate and may remain chewy instead of becoming properly dried.
- Overcrowding trays: Leave enough space between each strip of meat in the dehydrator for proper air circulation.
- Under-drying: Jerky should be pliable but not moist. If in doubt, let it dry a little longer.
Easy Storage & Serving Ideas
Homemade beef jerky is easy to store and perfect for on-the-go snacking.
- Short-term storage: Keep your jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Long-term storage: Freeze it for extended shelf life while preserving freshness.
- Serving ideas: Enjoy it straight out of the container or pair it with bone broth for a nourishing meal.
A Perfect Make-Ahead Snack
Want to save time? Mix your spices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to make the jerky, the seasoning is ready to go.
You can also slice the beef while it’s partially frozen, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to marinate and dehydrate.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Simple spicy beef jerky is more than just a snack—it’s a way to embrace the carnivore lifestyle while indulging in bold, satisfying flavors.
It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for everything from road trips to post-workout refueling. Elevate your snack game with this simple, protein-packed recipe today!
Easy Carnivore Diet Spicy Beef Jerky
Equipment
- Food dehydrator
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Airtight storage container
- Paper towels
Ingredients
Basic Version:
- 2 lbs beef (top round or flank steak)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Strict Carnivore Version:
- 2 lbs beef (top round or flank steak)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the beef in the freezer for 1-2 hours until partially frozen to make slicing easier.
- Slice the beef against the grain into 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3-6 mm) strips.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all dry spices.
- Coat the beef strips thoroughly with the spice mixture. For the strict carnivore version, use only salt and pepper.
- Refrigerate the coated beef strips for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor absorption.
- Preheat the food dehydrator to 165°F.
- Arrange the beef strips on the dehydrator trays, ensuring space between each piece for proper airflow.
- Dehydrate for 4-6 hours, checking periodically, until the jerky is dry but still pliable.
- Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing.
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.