If you’re a fan of savory snacks with a crispy, chewy texture, homemade bacon jerky might just become your new favorite treat. This Homemade Bacon Jerky recipe is not only easy to make but also packs a punch of delicious flavor. Perfect for snacking on the go, adding to charcuterie boards, or simply enjoying as a protein-packed snack, bacon jerky brings together the rich, smoky goodness of bacon with the satisfying texture of jerky.
Why Make Bacon Jerky at Home?
Making bacon jerky at home offers several advantages:
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, from sweet and smoky to spicy and tangy.
- Quality Control: Use high-quality bacon and control the ingredients to avoid preservatives and excess sugars.
- Cost-Effective: Homemade jerky is often more affordable than store-bought versions, especially when making in larger batches.
Ingredients for Homemade Bacon Jerky
To make your own bacon jerky, you’ll need:
- 1 pound of Thick-Cut Bacon: Choose high-quality bacon for the best results.
- 1/4 cup of Soy Sauce: Adds umami and saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons of Brown Sugar: For a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon of Liquid Smoke: Provides a smoky flavor without the need for a smoker.
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon of Black Pepper: For a bit of spice.
- 1 teaspoon of Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon of Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Homemade Bacon Jerky
- Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (93°C). If you have a dehydrator, you can use that instead for an even better result. - Prepare the Bacon:
Lay the bacon slices out on a cutting board and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and improves the texture of the jerky. - Mix the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. - Marinate the Bacon:
Place the bacon slices in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a more intense flavor. - Prepare for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch drips and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated bacon slices in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they don’t overlap. - Bake the Bacon:
Bake in the preheated oven for 2 to 3 hours, or until the bacon is crispy and dried to your liking. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your oven. - Cool and Store:
Once done, remove the bacon jerky from the oven and let it cool completely on the rack. Store in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate or freeze it.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Jerky
- Choose Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon holds up better during the drying process and results in a better texture.
- Adjust the Marinade: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add more spice or sweetness as desired.
- Monitor Cooking: Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks to prevent burning. The goal is crispy, not burnt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Homemade Bacon Jerky
Q: Can I use a dehydrator instead of an oven?
A: Yes, a dehydrator works great for making bacon jerky and may provide more even results. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and temperatures.
Q: How can I make my bacon jerky spicier?
A: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
Q: Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut?
A: Thick-cut bacon is recommended for better texture and durability. Regular bacon may become too thin and crispy.
Q: How long does bacon jerky last?
A: Homemade bacon jerky can last up to a week at room temperature. For extended freshness, store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
Q: Can I add other flavors to the marinade?
A: Absolutely! Experiment with additional flavors like maple syrup, honey, or your favorite barbecue sauce to create unique variations.
Enjoy Your Homemade Bacon Jerky
Making Homemade Bacon Jerky is a fun and rewarding way to enjoy a classic snack with a personal touch. With this easy recipe, you can create delicious, crispy bacon jerky that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re packing it for a road trip or serving it at your next gathering, homemade bacon jerky is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the savory, smoky goodness of this delectable treat!
Homemade Bacon Jerky: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Description
Indulge in the irresistible taste of homemade Smoky Bacon Jerky with this simple and flavorful recipe. Perfect for snacking, this bacon jerky combines the savory goodness of bacon with a touch of sweetness and a smoky finish. It's an excellent treat for road trips, outdoor adventures, or just enjoying at home. Get ready to transform your favorite breakfast meat into a delicious, portable snack!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack over the sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the wire rack. Brush each strip generously with the marinade on both sides.
- Place the bacon in the preheated oven and bake for 2 to 3 hours, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of dryness and chewiness. Flip the bacon strips and baste with additional marinade every 30 minutes.
- Remove the bacon jerky from the oven and allow it to cool on the rack. The jerky will continue to firm up as it cools.
- Once cooled, store the bacon jerky in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 120kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Sodium 420mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
- Protein 8g16%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
