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:
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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).
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In a medium bowl, mix together the ground beef, salt, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes.
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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.
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Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!