Choose lean meat
Trim all visible fat
Partially freeze the meat for easier slicing
Slice meat thinly and evenly against or with the grain as desired
Make a marinade with salt, spices, and optional sugar
Add curing salt if using a tested jerky recipe
Marinate the meat in the refrigerator
Drain excess marinade before drying
Arrange slices in a single layer
Dry in a dehydrator, oven, or smoker at a safe low temperature
Heat to a safe internal temperature if required by your method
Continue drying until firm, dry, and leathery
Cool completely
Store in an airtight container
Refrigerate or freeze for longer storage