Beef Jerky

Directions

1. 1
   Special Equipment: 1 box fan, 4 paper air-conditioning filters, and 2 bungee cords
2. 2
   Trim the flank steak of any excess fat, place in a zip-top bag, and place it in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours in order to firm up.
3. 3
   Remove the steak from the freezer and thinly slice the meat with the grain, into long strips.
4. 4
   Place the strips of meat along with all of the remaining ingredients into a large, 1-gallon plastic zip-top bag and move around to evenly distribute all of the ingredients.
5. 5
   Place the bag into the refrigerator for 3 to 6 hours.
6. 6
   Remove the meat from the brine and pat dry.
7. 7
   Evenly distribute the strips of meat onto 3 of the air filters, laying them in the grooves and then stacking the filters on top of one another.
8. 8
   Top these with 1 empty filter.
9. 9
   Next, lay the box fan on its side and lay the filters on top of it.
10. 10
    Strap the filters to the fan with 2 bungee cords.
11. 11
    Stand the fan upright, plug in and set to medium.
12. 12
    Allow the meat dry for 8 to 12 hours.
13. 13
    If using a commercial dehydrator, follow the manufacturer's directions.
14. 14
    Once dry, store in a cool dry place, in an airtight container for 2 to 3 months.