I wasn't always a fan of jerky. In fact, I'd never tried it until my brother bought a dehydrator and he and his wife started experimenting with different foods.
They tried several different recipes (all were amazing!) but I wondered if coffee could kick it up a notch. Turns out, it can! And, wouldn't you know it, Buff Boy Brewing coffee does the trick.
This recipe is more than just throwing ingredients together; it's about understanding how the flavors interact and complementing them to create a truly unique jerky experience. So, buckle up, as we embark on a jerky-making adventure. It's jerky-jerky time! (Actually, wait a second...)
What You'll Need:
Beef: 2 lb. lean beef, such as flank steak or top round (trimmed of excess fat)
Cola: 1 cup (your favorite brand will work, but I prefer Pepsi)
Soy Sauce: ½ cup
Worcestershire Sauce: ¼ cup
Buff Boy Coffee: ¼ cup freshly brewed, strong Original Buff Boy Brewing House Blend
Brown Sugar: ¼ cup, packed
Liquid Smoke: 1 teaspoon (hickory or mesquite)
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground
Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
Let's Get Jerking! (Oh geez...)
Preparing the Beef: This is arguably the most important step. Partially freezing the beef for about 30-45 minutes makes it much easier to slice thinly and evenly. Aim for slices that are about ¼ inch thick, cutting against the grain. This will result in a more tender jerky.
Brewing the Coffee: While the beef is chilling, brew your Buff coffee nice and strong. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the marinade – you don't want to accidentally cook the beef!
Mixing the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the cola, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, cooled coffee, brown sugar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
Marinating the Beef: Place the sliced beef in a large resealable bag or a container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring every piece is completely submerged. Seal the bag or container and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or preferably 24-48 hours, for maximum flavor penetration. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavor will be.
Drying the Jerky: This is where the magic happens. There are a few methods you can use:
Dehydrator: This is my preferred method. Arrange the marinated beef slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, making sure they don't overlap. Set the temperature to 160°F (71°C) and dehydrate for 4-6 hours, or until the jerky is dry and leathery but still pliable.
Oven: Preheat your oven to the lowest possible temperature, ideally around 170°F (77°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and arrange the marinated beef slices in a single layer on the rack. Prop the oven door open slightly to allow moisture to escape. Bake for 3-6 hours, or until the jerky is dry and leathery.
Smoker: For an extra layer of smoky flavor, you can use a smoker. Follow your smoker's instructions for making jerky, using a low temperature and indirect heat.
Checking for Doneness: The jerky is done when it bends easily but doesn't break. It should have a slightly leathery texture.
Cooling and Storing: Once the jerky is done, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Properly stored, your Buff'ed coffee cola jerky will last for several weeks.
The coffee adds a depth and complexity that you just won't find in store-bought jerky. Don't be afraid to experiment with different Buff coffee blends to find your perfect flavor combination.
The key is to start with quality ingredients and a little bit of patience. Trust me, the effort is worth it. You'll be rewarded with a delicious and addictive snack that's perfect for any adventure. So, go ahead, fire up your dehydrator (or oven!), and get ready to experience jerky like never before. Let's be jerk buddies! (Ugh...)