Hot Jerky
Spicy, smoky jerky with bold flavors, perfect for snacking or on-the-go. Suitable for meat lovers craving a fiery, savory treat with a hint of heat.
Ingredients
- 1 to 1 1/2 lb. sliced meat ⓘ
- 1+ Tbsp. soy sauce ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt (optional) ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. fresh ground pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper ⓘ
- 1 tsp. onion powder ⓘ
- 2 tsp. garlic powder ⓘ
- 2+ Tbsp. A.1. sauce
- 2 tsp. Spanish paprika ⓘ
- 2 tsp. hot chili powder
- 1 Tbsp. hot sauce ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. liquid smoke
- 1/2 tsp. barbecue powder ⓘ
Instructions
- Marinate the sliced meat in the mixture overnight or for at least 12 hours.
- Stir or shake the meat occasionally during marination.
- Dehydrate at 145°F for about 4 hours or until the jerky is done.
- If using a smoker, omit the liquid smoke from the marinade.
- Use generous spoonfuls of spices to ensure flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using a variety of meats like beef, turkey, or even venison. If soy sauce is a concern, coconut aminos can be a great substitute. Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your heat preference. Make sure the meat is sliced uniformly for even drying. It's also important to preheat your dehydrator to ensure the meat dries properly without cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Hot jerky makes a fantastic snack on its own or can be paired with cheese and crackers for a savory platter. It also complements beer or a refreshing Fruit Gelatin Punch for a delightful contrast. For a meal, consider serving it alongside a hearty salad or as a topping for loaded nachos for an American recipes twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store the jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag to keep it fresh. It can last for 1-2 months at room temperature, but for longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator or freezer. If reheating, do so in a low oven to maintain its texture rather than microwaving, which may make it chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Jerky contains roughly 173 calories, with 9g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (111% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 736mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this jerky?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can use turkey, chicken, or even game meats like venison. Just ensure they are sliced thinly and marinated adequately for optimal flavor and texture.
How do I know when the jerky is done?
The jerky is done when it is firm and dry but still slightly pliable. It should not snap when bent. A good test is to tear a piece; it should break apart but not crumble. Dehydrating times may vary based on thickness and moisture content.
Can I skip the liquid smoke in the recipe?
Yes, if you're using a smoker, you can omit the liquid smoke for a more natural smoked flavor. Alternatively, if you prefer not to use a smoker, the liquid smoke adds a nice depth and is a great way to achieve that smoky taste without smoking the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).