Deer jerky has been a favorite snack of outdoorsmen and women for centuries. The classic old school deer jerky recipe combines that lean venison meat with salty and savory flavors. Whether it’s used as a trail snack or as a savory addition to meals, this dried meat has been a part of outdoor culture for as long as we can remember.
With the recent surge in popularity of new, more modern ways to prepare this beloved snack, it’s easy to forget about the old-school method of making deer jerky. In this article, we’ll explore the history and the traditional way of making this tasty treat. We’ll also discuss the differences between traditional and modern methods of making old school deer jerky, so you can decide which one is best for you.
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What Makes Old School Deer Jerky So Special?
There’s something about old school deer jerky that just can’t be beat. With its unique flavor and chewy texture, it’s easy to see why it’s been around for so long. So what makes old school deer jerky so good?
First and foremost, there is the flavor. Old school deer jerky is made with a combination of beef, spices, and seasonings, resulting in a flavor that is both sweet and savory. The spices give the jerky a slightly spicy kick, while the sweetness of the beef is balanced out by the saltiness of the seasonings. The flavor of old school deer jerky is truly one of a kind.
The texture of old school deer jerky is also something to marvel at. Unlike the mass-produced jerky that you can find in stores today, old school deer jerky is made by slow-drying the meat over a wood-burning stove. This lengthy process gives the jerky a chewier texture that’s far more enjoyable than the crunchy texture of store-bought jerky.
Finally, there is the nostalgia factor. Old school deer jerky has been around for generations, so it has a special place in the hearts of many people. Eating a piece of old school deer jerky is like taking a trip back in time to simpler times, and it’s something that is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Old school deer jerky is truly something special. With its unique flavor and chewy texture, it’s no wonder why it has been popular for so many years. If you’ve never had the chance to try it, don’t hesitate to give it a try with this classic old school deer jerky recipe.
The Old School Deer Jerky Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Venison cut into jerky slices (can also used ground meat if you like)
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients listed above.
- Add the venison to the bowl and mix until all of the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl and let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 175 degrees F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the venison onto the parchment paper in a single layer.
- Bake for 4-5 hours, flipping the pieces of venison over halfway through.
- Once the venison reaches desired texture, remove from the oven and let cool before enjoying.
Conclusion
The old school deer jerky recipe is a great way to enjoy a traditional and tasty snack. The combination of spices and sugars used results in a unique and flavorful jerky that can easily be enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal. The process of making this jerky is simple yet time consuming, so be sure to set aside enough time when trying this recipe. With the right ingredients, the end result is a delicious, flavorful, and satisfying jerky.
Check out our wild game recipe page for more ideas.