Tangy black currant glazed beef with subtle cherry wood smoke creates a sweet, smoky, protein-rich snack perfect for on-the-go.
# What You Need:
→ Beef
01 - 1.5 lbs lean beef (top round, flank, or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
→ Marinade
02 - 1/2 cup black currant jam or preserves
03 - 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
04 - 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
05 - 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
06 - 1.5 tbsp brown sugar
07 - 1 tbsp smoked paprika
08 - 1 tsp garlic powder
09 - 1 tsp onion powder
10 - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
11 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
12 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, optional for heat
13 - 2 tbsp water
→ Smoking
14 - Cherry wood chips as per smoker manufacturer instructions
# Steps:
01 - In a large bowl, whisk together black currant jam, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne, and water until smooth.
02 - Add beef slices to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight for best flavor development.
03 - Drain the beef and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade.
04 - Arrange beef slices in a single layer on wire racks or dehydrator trays, ensuring pieces do not overlap.
05 - Prepare your smoker or oven for low-temperature drying at 160°F. If using a smoker, add cherry wood chips according to manufacturer instructions.
06 - Smoke or dehydrate the jerky for 4 to 6 hours, flipping once halfway through, until the beef is dry but still slightly pliable.
07 - Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container.
