Uncle Bill'S Jerky
Delicious homemade jerky with savory soy and Worcestershire sauces, seasoned with salt, onion, garlic, and pepper. Perfect for snack lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice deer or beef into strips 1/4-inch thick.
- Marinate meat overnight.
- Lay strips on oven rack and place in a 140° oven until desired dryness, approximately 6 to 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. For a twist, experiment with different types of meat such as turkey or even plant-based alternatives for vegan recipes. Make sure to slice the meat against the grain for better tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Uncle Bill's Jerky makes a fantastic snack on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Bob'S Beer-Fried Onion Rings for a savory treat. Serve it with cheese and crackers for a quick appetizer, or chop it up and add it to salads or grain bowls for extra protein. It's perfect for road trips or outdoor adventures.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jerky in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If vacuum-sealed, it can last for months. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing the jerky. To reheat, simply place it in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore its texture without cooking further.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Bill'S Jerky contains roughly 178 calories, with 9g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2560mg per serving (111% 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
How long can I store homemade jerky?
Homemade jerky can be stored for about 1 to 2 months at room temperature if kept in an airtight container. For longer shelf life, refrigerate or freeze it, where it can last up to 6 months or longer.
Can I use other meats besides beef or deer?
Absolutely! You can use turkey, chicken, or even fish like salmon to make jerky. Just be mindful of the marinating and drying times, as they may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
What can I do if my jerky turns out too tough?
If your jerky is too tough, it may have been dried for too long. To remedy this, you can try soaking it in a mixture of water and soy sauce for a few hours to help rehydrate it. However, prevention is key; check for doneness at the lower end of the drying time.
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).