Can I request a specific thickness for your beef jerky subscription slices?

The way you slice meat for jerky plays a crucial role in the taste and texture of your final product. It also affects how long the dehydration process takes.

The right tools and preparation are non-negotiable. You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife and a large cutting board. Chilling the meat before you start slicing helps too, as it will be easier to handle.

Thickness

Thickness plays a big role in how long it takes for your beef jerky subscription to dehydrate, and how chewy or tender it is. Thicker slices require a longer time to dry, but also provide an ideal balance of savory taste & chew.

The thickness of your meat will also play a factor in how it absorbs marinades, spices, and other flavors. A thicker slice will revel in the slow, deep marinade infusion, resulting in a hearty, robust bite that’s perfect for those who like to savor their jerky.

It’s best to cut your meat into uniform slices before starting the slicing process, as this will ensure that all your pieces dry at a similar rate. Chilling the meat beforehand will also make it easier to handle. A professional jerky slicing board is the ideal tool for this job, as it provides a recessed area to place the meat, and guides a knife through for consistent slices.

Flavor

The surface area and thickness of the meat slices plays a major role in how well they absorb marinating juices, spices, and flavors during dehydration. Thicker slices revel in a slow, deep marinade infusion, and may be ideal for those who enjoy a hearty bite and chewy texture.

In contrast, thinner slices quickly embrace every ounce of flavor during the drying process. They are also ideal for a variety of styles like traditional, teriyaki, and hot and spicy jerky.

If you’re looking to elevate your snack game and discover bold new flavors, check out JerkyGent for flexible subscription choices and a curated selection of handcrafted beef jerky. Their mission is to make jerky with ingredients that belong in the kitchen, not a lab. Get ready to eat like a savage!

Texture

One of the most important aspects of jerky making is consistency. It is necessary for all slices to be the same thickness to ensure they dry evenly during the dehydration process. Jerky that is sliced unevenly may have holes or gaps in the final product.

Once the meat is sliced to the desired thickness, it is then placed in a flavorful marinade and allowed to soak for 6-24 hours. This step is crucial in delivering a robust and full flavor to the jerky. A zip-lock bag works wonders for this process, as it can be sealed shut and the air removed, ensuring that all slices are evenly soaked.

Once the marinade has been absorbed, the meat is sliced either with or against the grain. Cutting with the grain produces a more rugged, chewier piece of jerky, which is ideal for those that love to savor their snack and take their time with each bite. Cutting against the grain, on the other hand, produces a more tender and soft piece of jerky that is easier to bite through.

Storage

For jerky to maintain its quality and flavor, it must be stored properly. The dehydrating process removes moisture from the meat, which prevents bacteria or fungal enzymes from reacting with the meat and spoiling it. This extends the shelf life of jerky and allows it to be stored for long periods of time.

The best way to ensure that your jerky is properly stored is by using an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Using a mason jar also works well because it provides a sturdy barrier against potential pests and can be easily opened and closed for repeated use.

If you enjoy making your own jerky, an electric meat slicer can be a good investment for obtaining homogeneous slices and ensuring that the thickness is correct for your desired results. They come in a variety of sizes, motors, and price ranges to suit different users’ needs.

A jerky of the month club makes a great gift for any meat lover in your life. JerkyGent offers flexible subscription options that include two bags of premium artisan beef jerky delivered monthly. Their curated selections offer a wide range of flavors and brands, with a focus on small-batch craft jerky.