Go Back
–+ servings
Armenian Basterma (Dried Cured Beef)

Armenian Basterma (Dried Cured Beef) Recipe

This is Armenian cured spiced beef. It is a wonderful, spicy beef jerky. Serve with Pita bread and Armenian string cheese. Heaven. You must serve this very thinly sliced as humanly possible. It is a rare delicacy.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 3 d
Cook Time 30 d
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Armenian
Servings 2 pounds
Calories 5.3 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 slice beef (about 2 lbs.)
  • 1/4 cup bagged granulated salt

Chairnen mixture

  • 3 tablespoons chaimen
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1/2 tablespoon kimion (cumin)
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 3 -4 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 cup water

Instructions
 

  • Select very tender cut of beef from rib part, about one and a half inch thick, any length you desire (approx. 8").
  • Insert heavy string through one end and make a loop.
  • Rub meat with salt and let stand in refrigerator for 3 days placing a heavy item on top and turn once a day.
  • Wash meat well with cold water and leave in clear water for one hour.
  • Then drain and press between towels to remove moisture.
  • Continue until meat is quite dry.
  • Hang in cool airy place to dry about two weeks.
  • Combine all above ingredients to make the Chairnen.
  • Add water a little at a time to make thick paste.
  • Soak meat in it for 2 weeks.
  • Hang in airy place for 2 more weeks.
  • May be used immediately, refrigerated, or frozen.
  • NOTE: A cheese cloth casing may be used to slip meat into before hanging.

Add Your Own Notes

Click here to add your own private notes.

Nutrition

Serving: 28gCalories: 5.3kcalCarbohydrates: 1.1gProtein: 0.2gFat: 0.2gSodium: 2455.8mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 0.1g
Keyword Asian, European, Lunch, Meat, Middle Eastern, Southwestern, Spicy, Weeknight
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!