What is Beef Jerky, Anyway?
When you’re on the run, who doesn’t love a fast snack of high-protein beef jerky? But did you know that the dish’s history dates back to about 1550, under the Inca Empire?
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The fact that beef jerky has been a favorite food for decades shouldn’t be shocking. Beef jerky is a classic snack due to its versatility in flavors, high nutritional value, and simplicity in preparation.
Despite its allure and delicacy, one question is often raised: what precisely is beef jerky?
Okay, Tell Me Exactly What Beef Jerky Is?
Beef jerky is a delicious treat that takes a sophisticated method, while appearing so simple and always tasting great.
But to put it simply, lean, trimmed beef that has been cut into bits and dried to preserve it is the main ingredient in beef jerky. Adding salt is one method to prevent the growth of germs during the dehydration process.
It may also be helpful to note that the word “jerky” originates from the Quechua word “ch’arki,” which meaning “dried, salted meat.”
A Common Question Concerning Beef Jerky
Many individuals ask questions about beef jerky on a regular basis. Our aim is to dispel any misunderstandings so you may have faith in the components of your food.
Is This Cooked Beef Jerky?
Yes, in fact! Beef jerky is a fully cooked product that goes through an extra drying process. Fully dehydrated beef jerky has a far longer shelf life than meat that has been cooked normally.
Eliminating the fat and other impurities from the meat is the first stage in the process. It is then cut into slices and put in the freezer. After that, we add a variety of spices to achieve the required flavor. Next, you need to brush the meat with honey or dark corn syrup and bake it until it dries completely.
Is Raw Beef Jerky Available?
Although beef jerky isn’t grilled like a steak, it is nonetheless cooked through. During the dehydration process, moisture is removed to give it the comfortable and familiar dry feel.
Additionally, because of the dehydration process, freezing each batch might increase its shelf life by many months.
What’s in a Beef Jerky?
There are many other types of jerky, but only beef is used to make beef jerky. The additional ingredients and spices added before to the dehydration process define the range of flavors. Common spices include soy sauce, apple cider, beer, garlic powder, salt, pepper, turmeric, and even honey or dark corn syrup.
However, you may also make jerky with other meats, such as turkey, deer, and so on.
What Part of the Cow Is Used to Make Beef Jerky?
There is no one “best” piece of meat to use when making beef jerky. However, the chosen cut is significant.
To begin with, leaner meats are always better. This also makes preparation easier because cutting off the fat from the meat is an essential step.
The two most common cuts of meat for beef jerky are the top round and bottom round. Furthermore, sirloin tip and flank steak are quite lean. However, they are typically the most expensive.
How to Preserve and Maintain Fresh Beef Jerky
Whether you buy from us or not, how you store your jerky will determine how long it keeps its taste and texture.
Above all, keep beef jerky in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight at all times. Heat and light accelerate the oxidation process, which can lead to a decline in the flavor and quality of the jerky. The greatest spot to keep things is generally in a pantry or closet.
As soon as the jerky is unwrapped, place it in an airtight container if you won’t be eating it straight away. By doing this, the jerky will avoid deteriorating due to moisture in the air making it softer. An extra layer of defense can be offered by sealing vacuum-sealed containers to keep out surplus air, which can potentially promote bacterial development.
Refrigeration is your best bet for long-term storage. If the jerky is refrigerated, it will remain fresh for approximately one month, significantly delaying the process of degradation. You can freeze beef jerky for even more extended storage. Before reheating, let the jerky cool to room temperature for a few minutes to enhance its flavor and texture.
Having said that, how long does opened beef jerky last on the shelf? We recommend utilizing your jerky under normal storage conditions after around a month. However, it may be stored in the freezer or refrigerator for six to twelve months.
Simply keep an eye out for any telltale signs of spoiled beef jerky, such a strange flavor, color, or smell. Don’t risk contracting food poisoning. But you won’t have to worry about this when you buy from Markwell Beef since our jerky is so good you won’t have time to eat it!
After we’ve finished introducing you to jerky, come shop with us and discover what else we have in store.
Finishing Our Beginner’s Guide to Jerky
Let me now ask you about beef jerky. To put it briefly, this is the tastiest, healthiest, and most portable snack out there! After reading this post, maybe you will understand exactly why it has to be in your pantry.
Are you eager to learn more about the extensive field of jerky? There are resources on jerky vs pemmican, jerky vs biltong, jerky compared carne seca, jerky calories, jerky when pregnant, and more.