Description

Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky, a savory and spicy snack that combines the rich flavors of Dr. Pepper, zesty jalapenos, and tender beef. Perfect for on-the-go snacking or adding a kick to your favorite dishes, this homemade jerky is easy to make and bursting with bold flavor. Whether you’re a jerky enthusiast or looking for a unique culinary adventure, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

1 2-3 pound beef eye of round roast, thinly sliced against the grain

Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Marinade:

2 cups Dr. Pepper
2 jalapenos, sliced
2 Tablespoons kosher salt
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Make the marinade: In a medium saucepan, combine all marinade ingredients. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes or until reduced by half. Chill completely.

Marinate the beef: Place beef slices in a gallon zip-top bag. Pour in the marinade, ensuring meat is well-coated. Refrigerate for 8-12 hours or overnight.

Preheat the smoker: Set your smoker or oven to about 170°F. Use maple or cherry wood for smoking.

Smoke the meat: Dry the meat slices and place them on the grill grate or rack. Smoke for 2-3 hours, checking for even drying. Jerky should be firm yet slightly pliable.

Steam to finish: Transfer warm jerky to a gallon zip-top bag, leaving it slightly open. This step adds moisture. Store at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate for 2 weeks.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 242 kcal
Servings: 8 servings

Notes

On-the-Go Snack: Pack individual servings of Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky in resealable bags for a convenient and protein-packed snack to take with you on hikes, road trips, or long days at work.
Party Platter: Arrange slices of Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky on a charcuterie board alongside cheese, crackers, and dried fruits for a unique and savory addition to your next party or gathering.
Sandwich Upgrade: Add slices of Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky to sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor and texture. It pairs especially well with sharp cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
Salad Topper: Crumble Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky over salads for a crunchy and protein-packed topping that adds a spicy kick to your greens. It’s a delicious way to elevate your salad game.
Trail Mix Mix-In: Chop Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky into bite-sized pieces and add it to homemade trail mix along with nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips for a savory and satisfying snack on the trail.
Gift Idea: Package homemade Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky in decorative jars or bags and give them as unique and flavorful gifts to friends and family for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.
Storage: Store leftover beef jerky in an airtight container or resealable bags at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the jerky for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Rehydration Tip: If the beef jerky becomes too dry after storage, you can rehydrate it by placing a damp paper towel in the container or bag with the jerky and letting it sit for a few hours. This helps restore moisture to the meat.
Flavor Enhancement: Experiment with additional seasonings or spices in the marinade to customize the flavor of your beef jerky. Try adding smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or brown sugar for different flavor profiles.
Enjoy Variety: Don’t hesitate to try different meats, such as turkey or venison, with the Dr. Pepper Jalapeno marinade for a unique twist on this recipe. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapenos according to your preference.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the bold and spicy flavors of Dr. Pepper Jalapeno Beef Jerky anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re snacking on the go or sharing it with friends, this homemade jerky is sure to be a hit!