Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs Eye of Round beef
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions:

  1. Place the beef in the freezer for 1–2 hours until firm but not frozen solid to allow for consistent slicing.
  2. Slice the beef into 1/4 inch (6mm) strips. Slice against the grain for a softer chew or with the grain for a tougher, traditional chew.
  3. Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until sugar is dissolved.
  4. Place beef strips in Ziploc bags, pour the marinade over them, massage to coat, and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
  5. Remove strips from marinade and pat slightly with paper towels to remove excess liquid.
  6. Arrange strips on dehydrator trays without overlapping. Set dehydrator to 160°F (71°C) and process for 6 to 8 hours.
  7. Test for doneness: Remove a piece, let it cool for 2 minutes, and bend it. It should flex and develop small surface cracks without snapping cleanly in half.