This air fryer bacon jerky is a deliciously crispy and savory snack that’s easy to make at home. Using the air fryer, you can achieve a perfect texture without the mess of traditional frying methods.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for a quick treat or a protein-packed snack.
Understanding Bacon Jerky
Bacon jerky offers a delightful twist on traditional jerky, combining the savory flavors of bacon with a unique texture that makes it a favorite among snack enthusiasts.
This snack is not only easy to prepare but also provides a satisfying crunch that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The rich, caramelized surface of the bacon enhances its appeal, making it an irresistible treat.
The Air Fryer Advantage
Using an air fryer for bacon jerky simplifies the cooking process significantly. This method allows for even cooking while reducing the mess often associated with frying.
With the air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. The result is a healthier snack option that retains all the delicious flavors of traditional bacon jerky.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. A few key ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering flavor profile.
Thick-cut bacon serves as the star, while brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Soy sauce introduces a savory depth, complemented by spices like black pepper, garlic powder, and optional smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Preparation Steps
Preparing bacon jerky is straightforward. Start by cutting the bacon strips to fit your air fryer basket, ensuring they cook evenly.
Next, mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl and coat the bacon strips thoroughly. Allowing the bacon to marinate for a short period helps the flavors penetrate, enhancing the overall taste.
Cooking Process
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the marinated bacon strips in a single layer in the basket. Cooking them at a high temperature ensures they become crispy and develop that jerky-like texture.
Flipping the bacon halfway through the cooking time is essential for achieving uniform crispiness. After about 10-15 minutes, your bacon jerky will be ready to cool and enjoy.
Storage and Enjoyment
After letting the bacon jerky cool completely, store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This snack can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various dips for added flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a quick protein boost or a savory treat, this air fryer bacon jerky is sure to satisfy your cravings. Its homemade charm, combined with the ease of preparation, makes it a must-try for any bacon lover.
Crispy Air Fryer Bacon Jerky
This bacon jerky is made by seasoning strips of bacon and cooking them in an air fryer until crispy. The process takes about 30 minutes and yields a flavorful snack that can be stored for later enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 1 pound thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bacon: Cut the bacon strips in half to fit in the air fryer basket if necessary.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Marinate the Bacon: Coat the bacon strips in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Bacon: Place the marinated bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and has a jerky-like texture.
- Cool and Store: Remove the bacon jerky from the air fryer and let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 4g