At Biercamp, a small speciality shop in leafy Ann Arbor, the cooks only work with meat raised without antibiotics, nitrates, hormones, and artificial preservatives. Which is why it’s surprising that their best jerky – a pastrami-flavored product – tastes a little like a Jewish deli in the best of ways. “What makes the pastrami jerky so great is the terrific texture and flavor explosion you get from the cracked pepper and coriander seed,” says co-owner Walter Hansen. “It’s a simple recipe, yet really flavorful. It’s one of our favorites to eat directly out of the smoker while it’s still hot. It’s perfect for shredding over a salad, chopped up, or added to chili; and it looks great on a charcuterie tray, especially if you can say you made it yourself.”

Biercamp Pastrami Jerky

Ingredients

• 3 lbs flank steak, brisket or eye-round
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tbsp pureed garlic
• 2 tbsp cracked pepper
• 2 tbsp coriander seed

Step One
Using a very sharp knife, cut each piece of meat into thin strips 1/4 – 1/2 inch thick.

Step Two
Combine all ingredients (reserve cracked pepper and coriander seed for later) in a large ziplock bag.

Step Three
Add the sliced meat and marinate in the fridge overnight.

Step Four
Remove the meat from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.

Step Five
Pre-heat oven to 180°F and place a sheet tray at the bottom of the oven. Spray oven racks with nonstick cooking spray.

Step Six
Remove the strips of meat from the marinade and arrange side-by-side across the racks, leaving room between each strip. Lightly sprinkle the strips of meat with the reserved cracked pepper and coriander until coated. The more you use, the spicier it will be.

Step Seven
Leave the oven open a crack to maintain temperature and cook until completely dry. This will take anywhere from two to four hours, depending on how dry or chewy you like your jerky. The jerky is ready when the color looks right and it gently pulls apart and does not snap.