Deer jerky is a very popular snack especially among hunters. It is a great way to preserve meat as it can last for months if properly stored. Deer jerky is also very easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients.
The first step in making deer jerky is to choose the right cut of meat. The best cuts of meat for jerky are the leanest as there is less fat that can go rancid. The meat should also be trimmed of any sinew or connective tissue as this can make the jerky tough. Once you have the meat you will need to decide how you want to marinate it.
There are many different ways to marinate deer jerky but the most important thing is to use a marinade that has a high acid content. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria. The marinade should also be flavorful as the flavor will be concentrated when the water is removed during the drying process.
So how long should you marinate deer jerky? The answer depends on the acidity of the marinade and the thickness of the meat. For a marinade with a high acid content such as apple cider vinegar you can marinate the meat for as little as four hours. If you are using a less acidic marinade such as soy sauce you will need to marinate the meat for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours for thicker cuts of meat.
Once the meat has finished marinating it is important to drain it and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help to remove any excess marinade which can make the jerky too salty or sticky. The meat can then be placed on a dehydrator rack or in an oven set to the lowest setting.
Dehydrators typically take between four and eight hours to fully dry the meat while ovens can take up to 24 hours. The key is to dry the meat slowly as this will help to preserve the flavor and prevent the meat from becoming too tough. Once the jerky is dry it can be stored in an airtight container in a cool dark place.
So there you have it! Now you know how to make your own delicious deer jerky. Just remember to use a high-acid marinade and to dry the meat slowly for the best results.
How long should you marinate deer jerky?
You should marinate deer jerky for at least 24 hours.
How long can you marinate deer jerky for?
You can marinate deer jerky for up to 72 hours.
What is the best marinade for deer jerky?
The best marinade for deer jerky is a mixture of soy sauce Worcestershire sauce garlic and onion powder.
Can you marinate deer jerky in the refrigerator?
Yes you can marinate deer jerky in the refrigerator.
Can you marinate deer jerky in the freezer?
No you cannot marinate deer jerky in the freezer.
How long does it take to marinate deer jerky?
It takes at least 24 hours to marinate deer jerky.
Is it necessary to marinate deer jerky?
While it is not necessary to marinate deer jerky it is recommended in order to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
What happens if you marinate deer jerky for too long?
If you marinate deer jerky for too long the meat can become too tender and begin to fall apart.
What are some other benefits of marinating deer jerky?
In addition to tenderizing the meat and adding flavor marinating deer jerky can also help to preserve it.
Can you marinate deer jerky without soy sauce?
While you can marinate deer jerky without soy sauce soy sauce is a common ingredient in marinades because it is a great source of flavor.
What is the difference between marinating and brining deer jerky?
The difference between marinating and brining deer jerky is that marinating is done with a flavored liquid while brining is done with a salt water solution.
How long does it take for deer jerky to marinate?
Deer jerky should be marinated for at least 24 hours.
What is the best way to marinate deer jerky?
The best way to marinate deer jerky is to use a mixture of soy sauce Worcestershire sauce garlic and onion powder.
Do you have to marinate deer jerky?
While it is not necessary to marinate deer jerky it is recommended in order to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
What happens if you marinate deer jerky for too long?
If you marinate deer jerky for too long the meat can become too tender and begin to fall apart.
