How to Make Jerky in Masterbuilt Electric Smoker

Are you craving homemade jerky that is packed with flavor and perfectly smoked? Look no further!

In this article, we will show you how to make delicious jerky using a Masterbuilt electric smoker.

You’ll learn the step-by-step process of choosing the right cut of meat, preparing a mouthwatering marinade, seasoning the meat to perfection, and smoking it to achieve that irresistible smoky taste.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with your very own homemade jerky!

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

When making jerky in a Masterbuilt electric smoker, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat.

There are different types of jerky cuts, but the best cuts of meat for jerky making are lean and low in fat. One popular option is beef, and the top choices include eye of round, bottom round, and sirloin tip. These cuts are ideal because they are lean and have less connective tissue, making them easier to slice and resulting in a tender jerky.

Another great option is venison, which is leaner than beef and has a unique flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, turkey and chicken breasts are excellent choices. They are lean and easy to work with.

For those who want to experiment, pork and fish can also be used to make jerky. However, it’s important to choose lean cuts of pork and fish that are suitable for smoking.

Preparing the Marinade

To get started, you’ll need to gather all the necessary ingredients for the marinade. For this delicious jerky recipe, you’ll need soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. These ingredients will give your jerky the perfect balance of flavors.

Once you have all the ingredients, it’s time to start the marinating process. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until the brown sugar has dissolved and the marinade is well combined.

Next, take your chosen cut of meat, whether it’s beef, turkey, or another protein, and slice it into thin strips. Make sure to remove any excess fat or connective tissue. Place the meat strips in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it is completely covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Seasoning and Preparing the Meat

Once you’ve finished marinating the meat, it’s time to season and prepare it for cooking. This step is crucial in creating delicious jerky that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Here are three important tips for seasoning and preparing your jerky:

1. Choose the right seasoning: There are many different types of seasoning for jerky, so it’s important to choose one that complements the flavors you want to achieve. You can opt for traditional flavors like teriyaki, peppered, or hickory, or get creative with unique blends like spicy mango or garlic parmesan. Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite.

2. Don’t forget the salt: Salt plays a vital role in the jerky-making process. It not only enhances the flavor but also acts as a preservative. Be sure to add enough salt to your marinade, but don’t overdo it. Too much salt can make the jerky overly salty and unpleasant to eat.

3. Properly prepare the meat: Before dehydrating the meat, it’s important to prepare it properly. Trim off any excess fat to prevent spoilage and ensure even drying. Slice the meat against the grain into thin strips for a tender and chewy texture. Remember to marinate the meat for at least 6-8 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Smoking the Jerky in the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker

For the best results, you’ll want to monitor the temperature closely while smoking the jerky in your Masterbuilt electric smoker. Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect smoky flavor.

To ensure consistent heat, clean your smoker regularly as part of your Masterbuilt electric smoker maintenance routine. Remove any residue or buildup from the heating element and interior walls. This will prevent any unwanted flavors from transferring to your jerky.

Before smoking the jerky, preheat the smoker to around 160°F. Once it reaches the desired temperature, place the jerky on the racks, making sure not to overcrowd them. Leave some space between each piece to allow the smoke to circulate evenly.

Now, the waiting game begins. Smoke the jerky for 3 to 4 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember to check the temperature periodically to ensure it stays within the optimal range. If the temperature drops too low, adjust the settings accordingly to maintain a consistent heat.

During the smoking process, you may notice some moisture accumulating on the surface of the jerky. To prevent this, prop the door slightly open using a wooden spoon or a heat-resistant object. This will allow for better airflow and help dry out the jerky.

Once the jerky is smoked to perfection, remove it from the smoker and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

Following these tips and maintaining your Masterbuilt electric smoker will ensure you achieve the best smoky flavor every time you make jerky.

Storing and Enjoying Your Homemade Jerky

After smoking your homemade jerky, it is important to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Properly drying the jerky is crucial in preventing spoilage and ensuring its long shelf life.

Here are some key steps to follow for storing and enjoying your homemade jerky:

• Cooling: Allow the jerky to cool down completely after smoking. This helps to avoid condensation and moisture buildup inside the container.

• Cutting: Slice the jerky into thin, uniform pieces to ensure even drying and better preservation. Thicker slices may take longer to dry and are more prone to spoilage.

• Storage: Store the cooled jerky in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air and moisture. Vacuum-sealed bags or jars with tight-fitting lids work best. This helps maintain the jerky’s texture and flavor while keeping it safe from spoilage.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to make jerky in your Masterbuilt Electric Smoker, you can enjoy the savory and delicious results.

By choosing the right cut of meat, preparing a flavorful marinade, seasoning the meat to perfection, and smoking it in your electric smoker, you have created a homemade snack that is both tasty and satisfying.

Don’t forget to store your jerky properly to ensure its freshness and enjoy it whenever you desire.

With these simple steps, you can become a jerky-making expert in no time!