Homemade Jerky: Tips and Suggestions

Jerky, one of my favorite treats and snack. It is known as Sukuti in Nepal (meaning thin and dried, and is also used as a mock to refer to thin people). We didn't have dehydrators at that time so Sukuti (dried meat) was prepared by hanging the thinly sliced meat on top of the woodfire stove.Those were the best dried meats I have ever tasted.Today I am talking about how to make jerky and some tips to make perfect jerky at home without any additive and preservative. I do occasionally indulge myself one store bought jerky, but homemade ones are always the best. When it comes to jerky I am always open for adventure and new flavors. Imagine my delight when I found the article on Cooking Wild, all about making jerky at home. It was as if the boost I needed to get my dehydrator out and create magical jerky (usually my laziness gets the best of me, but we were talking about jerky so I had to give up being couch potato). My L'EQUIP dehydrator helps me be lazy but still make yummy jerky. I set the temperature and how many hours I want to dehydrate, it stops after the set time so I don't have to keep on checking, until it is done.Here are some Jerky making points from Pete Giovencco's Deer Depot.Meat must be cold, fat free and clean.rnYou can use marinade or rub of your choice, create your own or buy.rnMarinade or rub should be used in small portion and adjusted accordingly.rnLight color meat means light flavor and darker the color mover flavor.rnIf not sure always run a test batch and make note, so you can adjust the flavors or seasoning.rnIf the jerky is professionally packed it will last 9 months to year. (Note: Some flavor might be lost)rnHome made jerky should be stored in airtight container and consumed within month.rnIf using wild game, make sure the meat is handled properly and frozen quickly.rnMore dehydrating tips are available on L'EQUIP website.Now here is my personal secret. Play around with the herbs and spices that you like, you will be surprised with the flavors you can create. Don't be scared to experiment, be bold and make the recipe your own, because no-one knows what you like than you.RECIPE: Soy Marinade JerkyIngredients:Soy MarinadernMarinates about 1 ½ pounds beefrn ¼ cup soy saucern2 Tbsp honeyrn ½ tsp dry mustardrn ¼ tsp garlic powderMethod:Combine ingredients in bowl.rnAdd thinly sliced meat. keto jerky Marinate 30 minutes,turning occasionally.rnFollow the instruction on your dehydrator and dehydrate.Enjoy the tasty, homemade snack.