How To Smoke Deer Jerky In An Electric Smoker

Delicious and Easy: Smoking Deer Jerky in an Electric Smoker

Are you a fan of delicious, smoky jerky? If so, you’re in for a treat! Smoking deer jerky in an electric smoker is a fantastic way to enjoy this tasty snack. Not only does it infuse the meat with a rich, smoky flavor, but it also gives you complete control over the cooking process. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this guide will show you how to smoke deer jerky in an electric smoker with ease.

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

When it comes to making deer jerky, the first step is to choose the right cut of meat. Look for lean cuts, such as the hindquarters or backstraps, as they are perfect for making jerky. Trim away any visible fat and sinew to ensure that your jerky turns out tender and flavorful.

Preparing the Marinade

Marinating the deer meat is essential for infusing it with flavor and tenderizing it. You can use a variety of ingredients to create a delicious marinade, such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix the marinade ingredients together in a bowl, then add the sliced deer meat, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Let the meat marinate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for the best results.

Slicing the Meat

After the meat has marinated, it’s time to slice it into thin strips. Aim for slices that are around 1/4 inch thick, as this will help the jerky to cook evenly and quickly in the electric smoker. You can use a sharp knife to slice the meat or a meat slicer for more consistent results.

Preparing the Electric Smoker

Before you start smoking the deer jerky, it’s important to prepare your electric smoker. Make sure that the smoker is clean and free of any debris. Then, preheat the smoker to a temperature of around 160-180°F. This low and slow cooking method will help to dry out the jerky without cooking it too quickly.

Smoking the Deer Jerky

Once the smoker is preheated, it’s time to arrange the marinated deer meat on the smoker racks. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to allow for proper airflow. Close the smoker and let the jerky smoke for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Keep an eye on the jerky and rotate the racks if necessary to ensure even smoking.

Checking for Doneness

To check if the deer jerky is done, look for a leathery texture with just a hint of moisture in the center of the strips. You can also perform a bend test by picking up a piece of jerky and bending it. If it bends and cracks but doesn’t break, it’s ready to be removed from the smoker.

Storing the Jerky

Once the deer jerky is done smoking, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or resealable bags. Properly stored, the jerky can last for several weeks, making it the perfect snack for on-the-go or as a tasty addition to your hiking or camping trips.

Now that you know how to smoke deer jerky in an electric smoker, it’s time to put your newfound skills to the test. Whether you’re making it for yourself or to share with friends and family, this delicious and easy method is sure to be a hit. So fire up your electric smoker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering flavor of homemade deer jerky!