Sprinkle with pepper if desired. Place the strips layer on layer in a large bowl or crock. Place a plate and weight on the top of meat. Remove meat strips from bowl and dry. Remove oven racks.
Stretch meat strips across the racks.
Allow the edges to touch but not overlap. Do not cover the entire rack. Allow room for air circulation in the oven. Set the oven temperature at 150 F and let the meat dry for about 11 hours. Check the meat early in the drying process.