How to Make Beef Pepperoni

Making your own beef pepperoni at home can be a fun and rewarding project, and it's easier than you might think! With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time and patience, you can create a delicious snack that's perfect for on-the-go munching or sharing with friends.

Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own beef pepperoni:

1. Begin by gathering your ingredients. You will need ground beef, salt, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, fennel seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, and curing salt (such as Prague Powder #1).

2. In a medium bowl, mix together the ground beef, salt, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes.

3. Divide the mixture into two equal parts and shape each part into a log. Place the logs on a sheet of plastic wrap, then wrap them tightly and refrigerate them for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours. This will help the flavors to meld and the logs to firm up.

4. Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

5. Unwrap the logs of beef mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the logs in the oven for 1 hour, or until they are firm to the touch.

6. Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Once they are cool, slice them into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.

7. To finish the pepperoni, place the slices in a single layer on a wire rack and let them air-dry for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours. This will help to give them a chewy, firm texture.

8. Once the pepperoni is dry, it is ready to be enjoyed! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

And there you have it! With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy homemade beef pepperoni that's full of flavor and perfect for snacking. Happy cooking!