Elk Jerky Recipe

Jerky is a great option for backpackers, hikers, or anyone who enjoys a satisfying and portable treat. Making your own jerky allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your preference.
In this recipe, we'll use a simple marinade with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and spices to create a classic jerky flavor. The elk meat is sliced thin and marinated for at least 6 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat. Finally, the jerky is dehydrated until it becomes chewy and shelf-stable.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds elk meat, trimmed of fat
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Elk Meat: Freeze the elk meat for 1-2 hours to make it easier to slice. Slice the meat against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Marinate the Jerky: In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the sliced elk meat to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
3. Dehydrate the Jerky: Preheat your dehydrator to 160°F (71°C). Arrange the marinated elk strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, or until the jerky is dry and leathery to the touch. It should bend slightly but not tear when you fold it in half.
4. Tips:
5. You can experiment with different marinades to create your own unique jerky flavors. Try adding liquid smoke, ginger, or your favorite spices.
6. If you don't have a dehydrator, you can make jerky in your oven at its lowest setting (around 170°F). However, it may take longer to dehydrate the jerky and you will need to prop the oven door open slightly to allow moisture to escape.
7. Once the jerky is completely dry, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Jerky will keep for several weeks at room temperature or up to 3 months in the refrigerator.