Discover how to make Bündnerfleisch, a traditional Swiss air-dried beef delicacy that's similar to beef jerky. This recipe guides you through the process of preparing and curing beef to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Ideal for snacking or as a gourmet treat, Bündnerfleisch offers a unique and savory taste experience. Learn the step-by-step method, seasoning tips, and curing techniques to create this delicious and authentic Swiss specialty at home.

Ingredients:

- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) beef (such as sirloin or rump)

- 3 tablespoons coarse sea salt

- 2 tablespoons brown sugar

- 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground

- 1 tablespoon juniper berries, crushed

- 1 tablespoon thyme

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - Trim any excess fat from the beef and pat it dry with paper towels. 

Make the Cure Mix:

  - In a bowl, combine the coarse sea salt, brown sugar, black pepper, crushed juniper berries, thyme, minced garlic, paprika, and garlic powder.

Season the Beef:

  - Rub the cure mix all over the beef, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Press the mixture into the meat to help it adhere.

Cure the Meat:

  - Place the seasoned beef in a plastic bag or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 7 days, turning the meat every day to ensure even curing.

Dry the Beef:

  - After curing, remove the beef from the refrigerator and rinse off the excess cure mix under cold water. Pat the meat dry with paper towels.

  - Hang the beef in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Ideally, use a dedicated drying chamber or a clean, dry place with good airflow. The drying process can take from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the humidity and temperature. 

Check for Doneness:

  - The Bündnerfleisch is ready when it feels firm to the touch and has a deep reddish-brown color. It should be dry and firm but not brittle.

Storage:

  - Store the dried Bündnerfleisch in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can last for several months if stored properly.

Enjoy your homemade Bündnerfleisch as a flavorful snack, in sandwiches, or as a gourmet addition to your charcuterie board!

Nutritional Values

Beef (Sirloin or Rump)

   - Calories: 250

   - Protein: 31g

   - Fat: 15g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits: Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It is also rich in iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, and B-vitamins, which support energy metabolism and brain function.

Coarse Sea Salt

   - Sodium: 38,000mg

Benefits: Sea salt is a source of sodium, which helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function. However, it should be used in moderation due to its high sodium content, which can impact blood pressure and cardiovascular health.

Brown Sugar:

   - Calories: 380

   - Carbohydrates: 98g

Benefits: Brown sugar provides energy in the form of carbohydrates. It also contains trace amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar content.

Black Pepper

   - Calories: 255

   - Protein: 10g

   - Fat: 3g

   - Carbohydrates: 64g

Benefits: Black pepper contains piperine, which may aid digestion and enhance the absorption of nutrients. It also has antioxidant properties and can help improve circulation.

Juniper Berries

   - Calories: 500

   - Carbohydrates: 60g

   - Fiber: 30g

Benefits: Juniper berries have diuretic properties, which can help with water retention and digestive health. They also contain antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Thyme

   - Calories: 101

   - Protein: 5g

   - Fat: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 25g

Benefits: Thyme is rich in antioxidants and essential oils, which can support immune function and have antimicrobial properties. It is also used to aid digestion and respiratory health.

Garlic

   - Calories: 149

   - Protein: 6g

   - Fat: 0.5g

   - Carbohydrates: 33g

Benefits: Garlic has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. It is known for its potential to support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving circulation.

Paprika

   - Calories: 282

   - Protein: 14g

   - Fat: 12g

   - Carbohydrates: 54g

Benefits: Paprika is rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A and C, which can help boost the immune system and protect against cellular damage. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic Powder

   - Calories: 331

   - Protein: 16g

   - Fat: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 72g

Benefits: Similar to fresh garlic, garlic powder provides antioxidants and supports heart health. It can also enhance the flavor of dishes with fewer calories and less moisture.

These ingredients not only contribute to the flavor and texture of Bündnerfleisch but also offer various health benefits. Be sure to use them in moderation to maximize their positive effects while enjoying your homemade air-dried beef!