Jerky?

[WildWill]

So how do you like your jerky? I've done it every which way and smoking is by far my favorite. For you smokers what's your favorite wood to use? I normally use hickory but picked up some mesquite last trip to Texas to give a try.

 

[Nick87]

Dehydrator for me.

 

[WestKyHunt]

Tried the smoker last year for the first 2hr then moved to dehydrator. I'll stick with just the dehydrator from now on.
As much as I love smoked meats, I don't care for my jerky to taste that way

 

[Dave N]

I just use the oven. Handy and close to my recliner! Toothpicks help hang LOTS of strips.

 

[recon6036]

I used a dehydrator until I bought a Traeger last summer

 

[Sytes]

I just use the oven. Handy and close to my recliner! Toothpicks help hang LOTS of strips.

This is typically my route as well. Not only is it a good means to make a batch of Jerky it also creates the best house Jerky potpourri, regardless other occupant opinions.

 

[hank4elk]

Been using a dehydrator for years. Now have smoker but don't know I'll switch as much as I like smoked meats.

 

[Nick87]

That's our dehydrator bought it on clearance years ago. If I had to only do a oven sized batch half would be gone before I plugged in the vacuum sealer.

 

[wyoboypt]

I love mesquite. Hickory is good too. Dehydrator jerky is usually disappointing. Smoker is the way to go.

 

[Nick87]

Not to derail this but if any of you guys have made landjaegers, I'd love some info. Pm would be fine.

 

[Dave N]

View attachment 214317
That's our dehydrator bought it on clearance years ago. Of I had to only do a oven sized batch half would be gone before I plugged in the vacuum sealer.

I don't know. When I put a toothpick through the strips and hang them from the racks I can put a whole lot of jerky in the oven at once.

 

[Nick87]

I don't know. When I put a toothpick through the strips and hang them from the racks I can put a whole lot of jerky in the oven at once.

I usually try to do around 10 to 12 pounds(wet) in a day. Idk maybe I could fit more in an oven than I thought?

 

[WildWill]

I can get just about 6 pounds in my smaller smoker with some creative stacking.

 

[Dave N]

Depends on how long the strips are. If you can use 2 racks, one as high as it will go and the other tucked under it to clear the bottom, you can hang plenty of strips in your oven. I may have a picture somewhere. You'll need lots of toothpicks! I reuse them if they don't break once the jerky is done.

I also use High Mountain seasonings, so my meat is not "wet" from any marinades that may drip in the oven.

 

[Nick87]

Depends on how long the strips are. If you can use 2 racks, one as high as it will go and the other tucked under it to clear the bottom, you can hang plenty of strips in your oven. I may have a picture somewhere. You'll need lots of toothpicks! I reuse them if they don't break once the jerky is done.

I also use High Mountain seasonings, so my meat is not "wet" from any marinades that may drip in the oven.

By wet I meant the weight before it is dried. Not actually wet.

 

[Bambistew]

I put my dehydrator racks in the smoker for about an hour then finish in the dehydrator. Then mix it 50/50 with unsmoked pieces and vacuum pack. The smoke will flavor all of it but noy over powering

 

[Nick87]

I put my dehydrator racks in the smoker for about an hour then finish in the dehydrator. Then mix it 50/50 with unsmoked pieces and vacuum pack. The smoke will flavor all of it but noy over powering

Just started using liqoud smoke on my dehydrator jerky this year. I try for the same just a touch of smoke.

 

[Sytes]

Good thread! Useful info. I dig the toothpick idea (thanks @Dave N ) for hanging meat strips vs my usual limited spacing via laying side by side on the wire shelves

 

[WestKyHunt]

Just started using liqoud smoke on my dehydrator jerky this year. I try for the same just a touch of smoke.

That is what my dad always does.
I just soak mine for 2 days in Dale's and call'er good

 

[Nick87]

Shit, alright I'm back on the right thread now my dad buys Robertson for everyone at Christmas every year. I tried no man's land sticks when I was traveling through in January, it was good, brought a whole bunch back with me.