making jerky in smoker with no vent?

[browndog55]

I have an older masterbuilt digital smokehouse that I haven't used, but wanted to try to make some jerky. I've researched some recipes that all reference a vent. However, the unit I have doesn't have a vent on it. It has the chip loading tray but that is all. Is there a way I can utilize this as some form of a vent? Sorry if this is a basic question, I just have no experience with this unit and everything I can find online talks about using a damper vent.

Thanks

 

[smokingohiobutcher]

You need some way to vent the smoke and the moisture out of the smoker.

Jerky needs to be dried ...not cooked.... to turn out right. I have extra vents at the top of my smoker,that i can open  just for smoking jerky . I have no idea about the MES you are talking about

but I am sure someone on here can help. Just remember to try to keep the smoker temp below 150* to dry the jerky properly.

Good luck

SOB

 

[s2k9k]

I don't have an electric but I think it would work fine. I know a lot of people here use electrics for jerky, whether they have vents I don't know. If you are worried about moisture buildup inside the smoker not letting the jerky dry then just open the door once in awhile and let it out. Since you are drying and not cooking, maintaining consistent temps isn't that important, the slight fluctuations from opening the door shouldn't hurt.