How To Smoke Venison Jerky

Smoking Venison Jerky: A Delicious and Flavorful Treat

Are you a fan of jerky but tired of the same old beef or turkey options? Why not try something a little more unique and adventurous, like venison jerky? Venison, which is the meat of a deer, offers a lean and flavorful alternative to traditional jerky meats. When smoked, it becomes a delectable treat that is perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite dishes.

Preparing the Venison

Before you can smoke your venison jerky, you need to properly prepare the meat. Start by selecting a lean cut of venison, such as the hindquarters or backstraps. Trim away any excess fat and sinew, as these can make the jerky spoil more quickly. Once the meat is trimmed, slice it into thin strips, cutting against the grain for a tender texture.

Marinating the Meat

Marinating the venison is an essential step in creating flavorful jerky. A simple marinade can be made using a combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Place the sliced venison in the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Allow the meat to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, or overnight for the best results.

Preparing the Smoker

While the venison is marinating, it’s time to prepare your smoker. Wood chips such as hickory, apple, or cherry are popular choices for smoking venison jerky. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker. Preheat your smoker to a low temperature, ideally around 180°F (82°C).

Smoking the Venison

Once the smoker is ready, remove the venison from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Arrange the venison strips on the smoker racks, leaving space between each piece for the smoke to circulate. Smoke the venison for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness and smokiness.

Storing and Enjoying

After smoking, allow the venison jerky to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Properly stored, venison jerky can last for several weeks, making it a convenient and delicious snack to have on hand. Enjoy it on its own, or use it to add a flavorful twist to salads, soups, and other dishes.

Smoking venison jerky is a rewarding and tasty experience that allows you to savor the unique flavors of this lean and nutritious meat. Whether you’re an avid hunter or simply looking to try something new, venison jerky is a must-try for any jerky enthusiast.