It's surprisingly easy to make your own jerky at home using an air fryer and this simple recipe. The whole process may take a while, but it's worth the wait!

Preparation

Remove all exterior fat from the beef eye of round. Wrap in plastic and place in the freezer for 2 hours to firm up. Cut beef into ¼-inch thick strips, removing any excess fat from individual pieces. (Beef can be cut with or against the grain depending on personal preference—with the grain will have more chew and against the grain will be more tender.)

Combine all remaining ingredients in work bowl and then add the meat and mix to coat. Marinate the meat overnight, then place in the air fryer. Dehydrate 4–5 hours at 160°F until the jerky is rigid and just begins to crack when bent.

Let jerky cure loosely covered on racks overnight, then pack in airtight containers. Store up to 3 months.

Note: There may be some trial and error with removing enough moisture to maximize shelf life vs. over-drying and being too brittle and not as palatable. If you make this recipe more than once, take notes on your first batch so you can perfect the second!