First Attempt at Ground Jerky - Questions

[illini40]

Hello

I tried my hand at making ground beef and also ground venison jerky today. I used a jerky gun, and then smoked on my Traeger.

Overall, I think they both turned out pretty good. Had the Traeger set at 180* and the jerky smoked for about 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Couple of questions:
- Any general guidance on how to determine when to pull the jerky off? The beef was maybe a tad overdone.
- The venison came off of my racks really easily when done. However, the beef wanted to stick and not come off very easy. I am just using some cheap cooking racks from Walmart. Not specific jerky racks. Any tips?
- How long will the jerky be OK for in ziplock baggies just on the counter?

 

[daveomak]

Morning... Try using a bit lower temp... 160-170.... Also, try the Q-Matz... teflon coated fiberglass netting to put the meat on... I use them for most meats and other stuff... Nothing sticks... they usually rinse clean with hot tap water...
...click on this link.... Todd is a member here and has sales every month or so...
https://www.amazenproducts.com/category_s/46.htm

I make jerky in slabs then slice after the smoke/cook...



You can store the jerky in the refer in a paper bag.. It will continue to dehydrate, then it will keep longer....

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