Smoker vs Dehydrator

[rustneversleeps]

What does everyone prefer for jerky? I have a pellet smoker (Green Mountain) and also a dehydrator. Was planning on making a small batch in each and doing a side-by-side test, but wanted to know what everyone else preferred? Im leaning toward my Green Mountain...

 

[MThuntr]

smoker especially if you can get the temps down

 

[406LIFE]

Dehydrator is easier. Smoker tends to have more pliable jerky and more smoke taste. Both are good. I do whatever the mood suits me.

 

[maxx]

I have used a dehydrator for ever. I got a pellet grill a year ago. Last time I made jerky I didn't have enough space in the dehydrator so I put the rest on the Jerky. It was substantially better for sure.

 

[BlakeA]

I cold smoke mine for an hour and then finish in dehydrator at 160 for 5 hours. Fantastic.

 

[huntid73]

I like the smoker, to me it seemed the jerky from the dehydrator was saltier, while the smoker tamed some of the saltiness.

 

[Backcountry Hunter 2]

Smoker for sure, but I use both.

 

[bowhuntmontana]

I have used both and vastly prefer the smoker. Much better flavor and I can fit a lot more volume into my smoker. Also, with my smoker, I can get the internal temp of the meat to the right point, then turn it down. With the dehydrator, I had to first get the meat up to temp in the oven, then transfer to the dehydrator (total PITA). The only issue I run into with the smoker is it doesn't totally dry the meat, which for me, gives it a better texture, but I end up having to put that jerky into the freezer for keeping, and then I put it in the fridge if I am going to take a few days to eat a batch. Otherwise it will mold. Dehydrator ends up with something a bit more shelf-stable, if that matters to you.

 

[rustneversleeps]

Thanks fellas, I appreciate the feedback and personal experiences!

 

[HowaHunter]

I use my green mountain, a dehydrator and oven as i usually make large batches. i like the smokiness but all 3 methods produce incredible results. Have fun.

 

[WildWill]

Definitely prefer it out of the smoker better taste and not as hard. I would think using the dehydrator instead of the smoke may help preserve the meat longer but it never last long enough for that to be a problem.

 

[wyoboypt]

Smoker