There are different ways to make beef jerky, some prefer to use a Traeger. Do you want to know how to make beef jerky on a Traeger and the benefits of doing such? These were discussed in this article and the precaution to take. Keep reading to find out.
What Is Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a type of dried, preserved meat that is usually made from lean beef. The meat is cut into strips and then dried, either in the heat of the sun or in a dehydrator. This process not only makes the meat easier to store and transport, but also Concentrates the flavor, making beef jerky a delicious and portable snack.
Jerky can be made from other types of meat as well, including chicken, pork, and even fish. However, beef remains the most popular choice for this tasty treat.
While beef jerky is often associated with road trips and camping trips, this delicious snack can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere. In fact, many people keep a stash of beef jerky in their desk drawer at work or in their purse or backpack for when they need a quick and satisfying snack. Beef jerky is also a popular choice for athletes and others who need a high-protein, low-fat snack that will give them sustained energy.
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What Is A Traeger?
A Traeger is a type of smoker typically used to cook meats. It is a very popular cooking method, as it allows for a more even cooking and can infuse meats with flavor. The process of smoking meat involves slowly cooking it over low heat while exposing it to wood smoke. This exposure to smoke imparts flavor and aids in the preservation of the meat.
Traegers typically use wood pellets as their source of fuel, which allows for a more consistent cook than traditional charcoal smokers. Traegers are also known for their ease of use, as they often come equipped with digital controls that make it simple to set and maintain the desired cooking temperature. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or simply looking for an easy way to cook delicious, flavorful meats, a Traeger may be the perfect solution for you.
How To Make Beef Jerky With Traeger
- First, you will need to gather your ingredients and supplies. You will need lean beef (such as the eye of round or flank steak), a sharp knife, a cutting board, a Traeger smoker, wood pellets, and seasonings of your choice.
- Trim any excess fat from the beef and then slice it into thin strips, about ¼-inch thick.
- Place the beef strips onto the cutting board and then season them with your chosen seasonings. Be sure to evenly coat all of the pieces of meat.
- Now it’s time to start your smoker. Set it to the desired temperature (between 200-250 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for beef jerky) and then let it preheat.
- Once the smoker is up to temperature, add your wood pellets to the hopper.
- Place the beef strips onto the smoking racks, making sure that they are not touching each other.
- Close the lid of the smoker and let the beef jerky smoke for 3-4 hours, or until it is dry and slightly chewy.
- Once the beef jerky is done, remove it from the smoker and let it cool. Once it is cooled, you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy!
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Benefits Of Using A Traeger To Make Beef Jerky
Traegers are very versatile and can be used for a variety of different foods. One benefit of using a Traeger to make beef jerky is that it is very easy to do. You simply need to put in the beef, set the temperature, and let it cook. The Traeger will do all the work for you, so you don’t have to worry about monitoring the cooking process.
Additionally, using a Traeger to make beef jerky results in a more tender and flavorful product. The constant temperature and smoke from the Traeger help to break down the tough muscle fibers in the beef, resulting in a more tender final product. Additionally, the flavor from the smoke imparts a delicious smoky flavor that you just can’t get from other methods of cooking beef jerky.
Finally, making beef jerky on a Traeger is very convenient. You can easily cook a large batch at one time and then store it in the freezer for later. This means that you always have delicious beef jerky on hand whenever you want it.
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Precautions
Here are some important precautions to take when using a Traeger to make beef jerky:
- Make sure the beef is lean – any excess fat will cause the beef to spoil quickly.
- Cut the beef into thin strips – this will help it to dry evenly and prevent it from drying out too quickly.
- Season the beef strips generously – this will help to add flavor and prevent them from sticking to the grill.
- Preheat the grill before adding the beef – this will help to prevent sticking and ensure that the meat cooks evenly.
- Cook the beef until it is just barely cooked through – any longer and it will become tough and dry.
- Allow the beef strips to cool completely before packaging them – this will help to prevent spoiling.
- Store the packaged beef jerky in a cool, dry place – this will help to keep it fresh for longer.
- Check the beef jerky regularly for signs of spoilage – if it starts to smell bad or look discolored, throw it away.
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Other Methods To Make Beef Jerky
There are a few other methods you can use to make beef jerky, but they require a little more effort than the Traeger method. One option is to use your oven. Preheat your oven to the lowest setting possible, and then place the beef strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet. You’ll need to leave the door open slightly to allow moisture to escape, so prop it open with a wooden spoon or other objects. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is dry and slightly crisp.
Another option is to smoke the beef jerky. This gives it a unique flavor that many people enjoy. To smoke beef jerky, you’ll need to have access to a smoker. Place the beef strips on the racks, and smoke at a low temperature (around 200 degrees Fahrenheit) for 3-4 hours.
Finally, you can also make beef jerky in a dehydrator. Dehydrators are devices that remove moisture from food using warm air. This is the easiest method for making beef jerky, as all you have to do is place the beef strips in the dehydrator and let it run until the beef is dry and slightly crisp. However, dehydrators can be expensive, so this might not be an option for everyone.
Making beef jerky at home is a great way to enjoy a delicious and healthy snack. By following the tips above, you’ll be able to make perfect beef jerky every time. So get cooking and enjoy!
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