Dehydrating food is a great way to preserve it for later use. One of the most popular foods to dehydrate is flank steak. In this article, we will discuss how long it takes to dehydrate flank steak and the steps involved in the process.
First, let’s talk about what dehydration is. Dehydration is the process of removing moisture from food.
This can be done using a dehydrator, an oven, or even the sun. The goal of dehydration is to extend the shelf life of food by removing water, which prevents bacteria growth and spoilage.
When it comes to dehydrating flank steak, there are a few things you need to consider. First, you need to slice the flank steak into thin strips against the grain. This will help ensure that the meat is tender once it’s been dehydrated.
Once you have sliced your flank steak into thin strips, you can season them with your choice of spices and marinades. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and even honey.
Next, you’ll need to place your seasoned meat strips onto your dehydrator trays. Make sure that they are not overlapping or touching each other as this can hinder the dehydration process.
Now that your meat strips are on your trays, it’s time to set the temperature and time for dehydration. For flank steak specifically, it’s recommended that you set your dehydrator temperature between 145-155°F (63-68°C). The drying time will depend on how thick your meat slices are and how much moisture they contain.
On average, it takes about 6-8 hours for flank steak strips to fully dehydrate in a dehydrator at 145°F (63°C). However, if you’re using an oven or sun-drying method instead of a dehydrator, it may take longer.
To check if your flank steak strips are fully dehydrated, you can do a simple bend test. Take a strip of meat and try to bend it in half.
If it snaps easily, then it’s fully dehydrated. If it’s still pliable or bends without breaking, then it needs more time in the dehydrator.
Once your flank steak strips are fully dehydrated, you can store them in an airtight container for later use. Dehydrated flank steak is a great addition to soups, stews, and salads. It’s also a convenient snack that you can take on the go.
In conclusion, dehydrating flank steak is a simple process that requires some preparation and patience. By following these steps and setting the right temperature and time for dehydration, you can enjoy delicious and tender dehydrated flank steak that will last for months.