How to Smoke Meat & Make Beef Jerky in an Apartment

Smoking meat and making beef jerky are time-honored methods of preserving and enhancing the flavor of meat — plus, it makes for some great snacks!

While traditional smoking setups require large outdoor spaces, there are apartment-friendly methods that allow you to enjoy smoked meats and homemade jerky without the need for a large yard or even a backyard smoker. We’ll walk you through how to make smoked meat and beef jerky in an apartment, as well as introducing a special South African method for making dehydrated meats!

Making beef jerky and smoked meats indoors

How is smoked meat made?

Smoked meat is prepared by cooking meat slowly over low, indirect heat, which is usually done by burning wood chips, charcoal or gas. The process infuses the meat with a deep, smoky flavor while also preserving it and making it safe to eat. Traditional smoking setups involve large outdoor smokers that require ample ventilation and space, though modern technologies have been able to bring the process indoors, too!

The type of wood used plays a significant role in flavoring the meat, and the most popular flavor choices come from trees like hickory, mesquite, applewood and cherrywood. Different meats pair better with different wood varieties, so choosing the right wood to smoke can drastically change the range of flavor profiles available with just one piece of meat!

How to make smoked meat in an apartment

Since traditional smokers aren’t suitable for apartment living (unless you want to get real familiar with your local fire department), there are alternative methods to achieve a smoky flavor indoors:

• Stovetop smoking – A stovetop smoker, such as a stainless-steel smoking pan with a built-in rack and lid, allows you to smoke small cuts of meat inside your kitchen without creating excess smoke. Simply place soaked wood chips in the bottom, put your meat on the rack and cook over low heat.
• Oven smoking – Wrapping wood chips in foil and poking holes in the packet allows you to create an oven-safe smoker. Place the packet on a baking sheet with a wire rack over it, set the meat on the rack and cook at a low temperature.
• Electric smokers – Some compact electric smokers are suitable for indoor use and designed to vent minimal smoke. These can be a great investment for apartment dwellers who frequently smoke meat and are looking for something to take their recipes to the next level.
• Liquid smoke – If you want a smoky flavor without using wood chips, adding liquid smoke to marinades or rubs can mimic the taste of traditional smoked meat.

Safety is key when smoking indoors. Ensure proper ventilation, avoid excessive smoke buildup and check your apartment regulations before attempting any indoor smoking method. If using an oven or stovetop smoker, keep a window open and monitor the process carefully to prevent triggering smoke alarms.

How is beef jerky made?

Beef jerky is made by drying thin slices of seasoned meat at low temperatures until the moisture is removed, resulting in a shelf-stable, protein-rich snack. The traditional method involves marinating the meat in a mixture of salt, spices and sometimes sugar before slowly dehydrating it over several hours.

Unlike smoked meat, which is cooked using heat and smoke, jerky is typically made by air-drying or dehydrating at a low temperature. This prevents the meat from fully cooking while preserving its texture and extending its shelf life. Rest assured, though — the meat is safe to eat!

How to make beef jerky in an apartment

Making beef jerky in an apartment is relatively simple with the right tools:

• Food dehydrator – A dedicated food dehydrator provides consistent low heat and airflow, making it the best option for homemade jerky.
• Oven drying – If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can use an oven set to its lowest temperature (around 170°F) with the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape.
• Air-drying – While less common in modern kitchens, air-drying in a well-ventilated space can work if humidity levels are low. This method is often used for traditional cured meats like biltong.

To make jerky, slice lean beef into thin strips, marinate it for several hours then dry it using one of the above methods. The process can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours depending on the drying method and meat thickness. Be mindful of airflow and ventilation, as prolonged drying may create strong odors in small spaces. 

How to make biltong in an apartment

Biltong is a South African dried meat similar to jerky but made using a different drying and seasoning process. Instead of being marinated in a liquid mixture, biltong is typically coated with vinegar, salt and spices before air-drying.

Apartment-friendly biltong methods include:

• Biltong boxes – These are specially designed drying chambers with a fan and low heat source to circulate air around the meat. You can make one yourself with just a few items!
• Dehydrators – While not traditional, food dehydrators can speed up the drying process while maintaining a texture similar to biltong.
• Oven drying – Setting an oven at its lowest temperature and leaving the door slightly open can mimic air-drying conditions.

Biltong is known for its rich, slightly tangy flavor and tender texture, making it a great alternative to traditional jerky. It’s a key part of South African cuisine, which you can read all about here!

The bottom line

Smoking meat and making beef jerky in an apartment are both possible with the right techniques and equipment. Whether using a stovetop smoker, a dehydrator or a simple oven setup, you can enjoy flavorful, preserved meats without needing a big outdoor space (or any outdoor space at all!).

Experimenting with different wood chips, marinades and drying methods can help you achieve the perfect taste and texture for your homemade smoked meats and jerky. Plus, it’s a great way to add a new kind of snack into your routine!

Enjoy!

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Featured photo by Matt Benson on Unsplash