Are you a meat lover looking to take your culinary skills to the next level?
Have you ever wondered if you can dry age beef in a dehydrator?
Well, you’re in luck!
In this article, we’ll explore the process of dry aging beef and how it can be achieved using a dehydrator.
From preserving meat to enhancing its flavor and tenderness, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this ancient technique.
So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Can You Dry Age Beef In A Dehydrator?
The short answer is yes, you can dry age beef in a dehydrator. However, it’s important to note that the process of dry aging beef is typically done in a controlled environment with specific temperature and humidity levels.
When using a dehydrator, you’ll need to make some adjustments to ensure that the meat is properly aged. One of the key factors in dry aging beef is the reduction of moisture, which can be achieved through the use of a dehydrator. Exposing the meat to cold, circulating air for an extended period of time gently dehydrates it, concentrating flavor and increasing the ratio of fat to muscle.
To dry age beef in a dehydrator, start by salting the steak at least one hour before cooking and keeping it in the refrigerator until it’s time to cook. Place the steak in a dehydrator set to 130°F and cook for two hours. Afterward, sear the steak in a smoking hot cast iron pan with a neutral, high-smoke point oil. At the end of your sear (not too early to prevent burning), throw in butter, thyme, and garlic. Rest the steak for a few minutes, cut it against the grain, and enjoy.
It’s important to note that temperature control in a dehydrator is not as efficient as sous vide. This means that we can’t assume that a steak set to 135°F is truly out of the temperature danger zone. And this means that we’re taking food safety risks if we choose to cook the steak for longer than two hours.
What Is Dry Aging Beef?
Dry Aging Beef is a process that has been used for centuries to enhance the flavor and tenderness of meat. It involves taking a large cut of beef and placing it in a controlled environment with specific temperature, humidity, and air flow levels. During the aging process, the natural enzymes and connective tissues within the meat break down slowly, making it more tender. The meat is also exposed to various molds and yeasts that land on it, which all play a role in the final flavor profile of the beef.
Dry aging beef typically ranges from 14 to 240 days or even longer, with most dry aging connoisseurs preferring the range to be between 28 to 45 days. The longer the age, the greater evaporation that takes place, which results in a greater change in taste, texture, and yield. However, it’s important to note that dry aging beef is typically done in a controlled environment with specific temperature and humidity levels. This ensures that the meat is properly aged and safe to consume.
The Traditional Dry Aging Method
The traditional method of dry aging beef involves hanging the meat in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment, typically for several weeks. During this time, the meat undergoes a natural enzymatic process that breaks down connective tissue and intensifies its flavor.
To begin the process, select a high-quality cut of beef with a good amount of fat marbling. Trim off any excess fat or silver skin, and place the meat on a wire rack in a pan or on a plate. It’s important to allow for air circulation around the meat, so avoid wrapping it in plastic or covering it with anything.
Next, place the meat in a refrigerator set to a temperature between 34°F and 38°F, with a humidity level between 75% and 85%. This can be achieved by using a specially designed dry-aging fridge or by creating a DIY setup using a mini-fridge and a humidifier.
Allow the meat to age for at least two weeks, but ideally for four to six weeks. During this time, check the temperature and humidity levels regularly to ensure they remain consistent. You may also need to trim off any dry or moldy bits that form on the surface of the meat.
Once the aging process is complete, remove the meat from the refrigerator and trim off any remaining dry bits or mold. Sear the meat in a hot skillet with oil or butter until it forms a crust on all sides. Finish cooking it to your desired level of doneness in the oven or on the stovetop.
While this traditional method requires more time and equipment than using a dehydrator, it results in a more complex and intense flavor profile that many people find worth the effort.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Dry Aging
Dry aging beef in a dehydrator or any other controlled environment has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons of dry aging:
Advantages:
1. Enhanced Flavor: Dry aging concentrates the flavor of the beef, making it more intense and complex.
2. Increased Tenderness: The natural enzymes in the beef break down the muscle over time, making it more tender.
3. Improved Texture: Dry aging changes the texture of the beef, making it firmer and chewier.
4. Caramelization: Dry-aged beef has a dry and flavorful surface that is easy to caramelize in a pan.
5. Shelf Life: Dry-aged beef has a longer shelf life than fresh beef.
Disadvantages:
1. Cost: The process of dry aging is costly due to high aging shrinkage, trims loss, and the requirement of highest grades meat.
2. Risk of Contamination: The risk of contamination is higher during the dry aging process due to the extended period of time that the meat is exposed to air.
3. Limited Availability: Dry-aged beef is not widely available in most grocery stores or butcher shops, making it harder to find.
4. Taste Preference: Some people may not enjoy the taste of dry-aged beef, as it can be an acquired taste.
5. Time-Consuming: Dry aging takes time, typically between four to six weeks, which may not be feasible for some home cooks.
How A Dehydrator Works For Dry Aging Beef
A dehydrator works by circulating dry air around the meat, which removes moisture and concentrates the flavor. When it comes to dry aging beef, the dehydrator can be used to mimic the controlled environment of a professional dry aging fridge.
The process involves placing the beef in the dehydrator for a specific amount of time at a specific temperature. The dehydrator should have a timer, temperature setting, and a high-quality ventilation system. The meat must be heated for at least five minutes at a core temperature of 72°C at the beginning of the drying process to ensure that it is germ-free and protected against bacteria, mould spores, and botulism.
The drying time depends on the thickness of the meat and the device being used. Generally, the process takes between 4-8 hours, and it’s important to check the consistency at least every hour. The Jerky should no longer feel moist and soft when it’s ready. The strips of meat must not break when bent, as this indicates that the meat has been over dried.
After drying, it’s important to allow the meat to cool down and then let it rest in a freezer bag to compensate for any remaining moisture. This will help preserve the flavor and texture of the meat. While using a dehydrator is not the traditional method for dry aging beef, it can be an effective way to achieve similar results.
Step-by-Step Guide To Dry Aging Beef In A Dehydrator
If you want to try dry aging beef in a dehydrator, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Choose the right cut of meat: Ideally, you want to use a large, bone-in cut of beef, such as a ribeye or strip steak. This will allow for even drying and better flavor development.
2. Trim the excess fat: Trim off any excess fat from the meat, leaving only a thin layer on top to protect it during the drying process.
3. Cut the meat into cubes: Cut the meat into 3-4 inch cubes that are relatively even in size. This will ensure that they dry at the same rate.
4. Marinate the beef: To help keep the meat moist and add flavor, marinate the beef cubes with your chosen marinade in a bowl or plastic bag. Make sure all the beef is coated.
5. Place the beef cubes in the dehydrator: Place the beef cubes in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, leaving some space between them for air circulation.
6. Set the dehydrator temperature: Set the dehydrator temperature to around 130°F and leave it running for 2-3 days. The exact time will depend on how dry you want your beef to be.
7. Check on the beef cubes: Check on the beef cubes periodically to make sure they are drying evenly. If some cubes are drying faster than others, rotate them or move them around on the trays.
8. Remove and store the dry-aged beef: Once the beef cubes are fully dried, remove them from the dehydrator and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
By following these steps, you can dry age beef in a dehydrator and achieve similar results to traditional dry aging methods. However, keep in mind that this method may not be as effective as using a controlled environment with specific temperature and humidity levels.
Tips And Tricks For Perfectly Dry Aged Beef
If you want to achieve perfectly dry aged beef in a dehydrator, there are several tips and tricks you should keep in mind. Here are some of the most important ones:
1. Choose the right cut of beef: Not all cuts of beef are suitable for dry aging. The best cuts are those with a high level of marbling, such as ribeye or strip loin. These cuts have enough fat to keep the meat tender and flavorful during the aging process.
2. Salt the meat ahead of time: Salting the meat at least one hour before cooking helps to draw out moisture and concentrate flavor. Be sure to pat the steak dry with a paper towel before placing it in the dehydrator.
3. Use a dehydrator with adjustable temperature and humidity settings: The ideal temperature for dry aging beef is around 38°F, with a humidity level of around 85%. If your dehydrator doesn’t have adjustable settings, try to find a model that comes with specific dry aging settings.
4. Be patient: Dry aging beef takes time, usually between 14 and 28 days depending on the desired flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush the process, as this can result in tough, dry meat.
5. Keep the meat away from other foods: During the dry aging process, the meat will release odors that can affect other foods in your fridge or freezer. To avoid this, keep the meat in a separate container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
6. Trim off any mold or hard crust that forms on the meat: While some mold is normal during the dry aging process, it’s important to trim off any hard crust that forms on the surface of the meat. This can be done with a sharp knife or kitchen shears.
7. Sear the steak properly: To get a nice crust on your steak, make sure your pan or grill is smoking hot before adding the meat. Sear for about two minutes on each side, then transfer to a lower heat to finish cooking.
By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve perfectly dry aged beef in a dehydrator that’s tender, flavorful, and safe to eat.
