Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and homemade snack that's perfect for hiking, road trips, or simply enjoying at home? Look no further! This pork jerky dehydrator recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. It produces tender, flavorful jerky that rivals anything you'd buy in a store. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, offering a quick dinner alternative or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork loin, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick) - You can ask your butcher to slice it for you!
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds extra smoky flavor!)
Equipment:
- Food dehydrator
- Sharp knife or meat slicer (for even slicing)
- Shallow dish or container for marinating
- Paper towels
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Pork
Begin by slicing the pork loin into thin, even strips. Aim for about ⅛ inch thickness for optimal drying. Using a meat slicer makes this step much easier, but a very sharp knife will also work. The thinner the slices, the quicker and more evenly they'll dehydrate.
Step 2: Marinating the Pork
In a shallow dish, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Add the pork strips, ensuring they're all coated evenly in the marinade. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in incredibly flavorful jerky.
Step 3: Dehydrating the Jerky
Remove the pork strips from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will increase drying time and may lead to uneven results. Arrange the strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they don't overlap. This is crucial for even drying and prevents molding.
Step 4: Setting the Dehydrator
Follow your dehydrator's instructions for setting the temperature. Generally, a temperature between 135-160°F (57-71°C) is recommended for pork jerky. Dehydrate for 6-12 hours, or until the jerky is completely dry and leathery. The drying time will depend on the thickness of your slices and the humidity level.
Step 5: Cooling and Storing
Once the jerky is fully dehydrated, remove it from the dehydrator and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This helps prevent moisture from accumulating and keeps the jerky crisp. Once cooled, store your homemade jerky in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. It should last for several weeks.
Tips for the Best Pork Jerky:
- Thinly sliced meat: This is key for even drying and a tender final product.
- Don't overcrowd the trays: Proper spacing ensures airflow and prevents sticking.
- Check for dryness: The jerky should be dry and leathery, not sticky or moist.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other spices, such as cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or even a touch of brown sugar for sweetness.
Variations:
- Spicy Pork Jerky: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or your favorite chili powder to the marinade.
- Sweet and Smoky Pork Jerky: Increase the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons and use smoked paprika.
- Garlic and Herb Pork Jerky: Add 1 tablespoon of dried oregano and thyme to the marinade.
Nutritional Information (per ounce, approximate):
- Calories: 70-80
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fat: 3-5g
- Sodium: Varies depending on soy sauce used
This homemade pork jerky makes a fantastic healthy snack or addition to your quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking! It's a recipe that consistently ranks among the best recipes for its ease and deliciousness. Enjoy!