Jerky is a timeless snack that has been around for centuries. Its popularity has endured through the ages due to its convenience, portability, and delicious flavor. Made by drying and preserving meat, Jerky is an excellent option for those following a keto diet. It is also a convenient snack food on hikes and traveling. Let's explore the art of making Jerky from scratch and see how it can be a beneficial addition to a ketogenic lifestyle.
What is Jerky?
Jerky is a lean meat trimmed of fat, cut into thin strips, and dried to prevent spoilage. The drying process removes moisture from the meat, making it shelf-stable to store for future use and preserve it for extended periods. Historically, Jerky was made using methods such as air-drying or smoking, but modern techniques often involve using a dehydrator or oven.
Making Jerky at Home
Homemade Jerky is best because you avoid preservatives on the Jerky that you find in store-bought packaged Jerky. The best way to take jerky with you on trips and hikes is to use the types of containers listed below.
Airtight Containers: Transfer the jerky from its original packaging to airtight containers or resealable bags before your trip. Airtight containers help protect the Jerky from exposure to air, moisture, and odors, which can cause it to spoil or lose flavor.
Choose Durable Containers: Opt for durable containers that can withstand the rigors of travel, such as hard-sided plastic containers or metal tins. Avoid using flimsy plastic bags or containers that could easily tear or puncture, compromising the integrity of the Jerky.
Separate Flavors: If you're bringing multiple flavors or types of Jerky, consider storing them in individual containers to prevent flavor transfer. This will help preserve the distinct taste of each variety and avoid any unwanted mixing of flavors.
Pack with Care: Place the jerky containers in your backpack or travel bag, positioning them upright to prevent crushing or squishing. Pack the Jerky in a separate compartment away from other items if possible to minimize the risk of damage.
Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat: Protect the Jerky from direct sunlight and heat, as exposure to high temperatures can cause it to spoil or become rancid. Keep your backpack or bag from direct sunlight and avoid leaving it in hot cars or near heat sources.
Consider Insulation: If you're hiking in hot weather or will be outdoors for an extended period, consider using insulated containers or packing the Jerky with ice packs to help keep it cool. This can help maintain the quality of the Jerky and reduce the risk of spoilage.
Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on the temperature of your surroundings and take steps to keep the jerky cool if needed. If you notice that the jerky feels warm to the touch or starts to sweat inside the container, it's a sign that it may be getting too warm and should be consumed soon.
Consume Promptly: While properly stored jerky can stay good for extended periods, it's best to consume it within a few days to a week after opening, especially when traveling. This ensures it's fresh and safe to eat, reducing the risk of food-borne illness.
Following these tips for storing Jerky on trips and hikes, you can enjoy this delicious and nutritious snack while exploring the great outdoors. Proper storage helps preserve the quality of the Jerky and ensures that it remains safe to eat wherever your adventures take you.
Ingredients:
1-2 pounds of lean meat (beef, turkey, chicken, elk, or venison)
Marinade or seasoning of your choice (low-carb options: smoke sauce, vinegar, herbs, and spices)
Salt, pepper, and garlic granules to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat: Start by selecting a lean cut of meat and removing any visible fat. Place the meat in the freezer to partially freeze it for 1-2 hours. This will make it easier to slice thinly and evenly.
Slice the Meat: Once partially frozen, remove the meat from the freezer and slice it against the grain into thin strips, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
Marinate the Meat: Place the sliced meat in a bowl or resealable plastic bag and add your choice of marinade or seasoning. Ensure the meat is evenly coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Dehydrate the Meat: After marinating, remove the meat from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange the meat strips in a single layer on a dehydrator tray or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Dehydrate the Meat: Preheat your dehydrator to 160°F (70°C) or set your oven to its lowest temperature. Place the meat trays in the dehydrator or oven and dry for 4-6 hours or until the Jerky is firm and dry to the touch. The exact drying time will vary depending on the thickness of the meat and the drying method used. The thinner the cuts of meat, the less time it takes to dry the meat.
Store the Jerky: Once the Jerky is fully dried, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or resealable bag. Properly dried Jerky can be stored at room temperature for several weeks or longer.
Jerky can be stored in airtight jars for longer storage. Below are instructions on how to store jerky in airtight jars for longer storage beyond a few weeks for optimal preservation:
Ensure Proper Drying: Before storing jerky in jars, it's crucial to ensure it has been properly dried. The Jerky should be firm and dry to the touch, with no signs of moisture. Any moisture left in the Jerky can lead to mold growth, even in sealed jars.
Cool Jerky Completely: Allow the jerky to cool completely after drying before transferring it to jars. Placing warm Jerky in jars can create condensation, which may lead to moisture buildup and spoilage.
Choose Suitable Jars: Select clean, dry, and airtight jars for storing the Jerky. Mason jars or similar glass jars with screw-top lids are ideal for preserving Jerky. Make sure the jars have been thoroughly cleaned and dried before use.
Layer Jerky in Jars: Place the cooled jerky strips in the jars, arranging them in a single layer to prevent clumping. Leave a small amount of space at the top of the jar to allow for proper sealing.
Remove Air: To help preserve the Jerky, removing as much air from the jars as possible is essential. You can do this by using a vacuum sealer attachment or by pressing down gently on the Jerky to eliminate air pockets before sealing the jars.
Seal Jars Tight: Once the jars are filled with jerky, securely seal them with the lids. Ensure the lids are tightly closed to prevent air and moisture from entering the jars.
Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Place the sealed jars of Jerky in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Proper storage conditions will help maintain the quality and freshness of the Jerky for an extended period.
Tips for Long-Term Storage:
Check for Signs of Spoilage: Periodically inspect the Jerky for any signs of mold, discoloration, or off-putting odors. If you notice any of these signs, discard the affected Jerky immediately.
Rotate Stock: If you've made a large batch of Jerky, consider rotating your stock by consuming the oldest jars first. This ensures that you're always enjoying jerky at its freshest.
Use Oxygen Absorbers: To further extend the shelf life of Jerky stored in jars, you can add oxygen absorbers to help prevent oxidation and maintain freshness.
By following these steps and storage tips, you can effectively store jerky in jars to preserve it for future use. Properly stored jerky can maintain its quality for several months, allowing you to enjoy this delicious snack whenever the craving strikes.
Benefits of Jerky on a Keto Diet
Jerky is a perfect snack for anyone on a ketogenic diet for several reasons:
High in Protein: Jerky is packed with protein essential for maintaining muscle mass and promoting satiety. Protein also helps keep blood sugar levels stable, preventing spikes and crashes that can interfere with ketosis.
Low in Carbs: Traditional jerky recipes are naturally low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for keto dieters. You can create delicious Jerky without adding unnecessary carbs by using keto-friendly marinades and seasonings.
Portable and Convenient: Jerky is a convenient on-the-go snack that requires no refrigeration, making it perfect for busy lifestyles. Whether traveling, hiking, or at work, Jerky provides a quick and easy source of energy and nutrition.
Rich in Essential Nutrients: Besides protein, Jerky contains essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are necessary for overall health and well-being. These nutrients support immune function, metabolism, and energy production, helping you feel your best on a keto diet.
Satisfying and Flavorful: With its savory taste and chewy texture, jerky satisfies cravings for salty snacks without derailing your keto goals. By experimenting with different seasonings and spices, you can customize the flavor of your Jerky to suit your preferences.
Making homemade Jerky is a simple and rewarding process that yields tasty and nutritious results. Whether you prefer beef, turkey, chicken, elk, or venison, homemade Jerky can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. By adding Jerky to your ketogenic diet, you can reap the benefits of its high protein content, low carb count, and convenient packaging. Try making homemade Jerky and discover a tasty new addition to your keto lifestyle.
Kohls is one of my favorite places to shop online and offline due to their prices. You will find many kitchen tools to make your food preparation fun and conveniently easy at Kohls. If you need a food dehydrator, jars, or anything else to help you create homemade jerky check out Khols!
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