What'd I do wrong?!

[mojo123]

First time ever making jerky and I totally blew it. I have an electric smoker and I used sirloin tip roast this time. I cut them into 1/4 slices, marinated them and cooked at 170 for about 5 hours. Meat came out sort of brittle and gross. I checked the meat every hour or so and it never got jerky like. Don't think I overcooked it but maybe..? Any tips or suggestions for next time are greatly appreciated

 

[thirdeye]

How is the temperature measured in your smoker?

Jerky is a combination of drying and cooking, and there is a fine line. I don't do the marinades and prefer a dry cure, but that is just my preference. Many of my friends go with the wet method and their jerky is great.

 

[mojo123]

I use a Smoke Hollow electric smoker and the temp is measured by a thermometer on the window of the smoker. Maybe it was the cut of meat??

 

[daveomak]

If you can remove that therm and check it for accuracy in boiling water...
May I recommend a cabled thermometer...

 

[Smith5851]

I have also used cabled thermometer, because it gives 99% accurate information.

 

[chef jimmyj]

Too high a temp. You only need to heat the Jerky to 160 - 165 to kill bacteria. Depending on the thickness, this temp is achieved in the first 30 to 60 minutes. Beyond that you only want to Dry the Jerky and lower temps, Ambient to 150, is far better for this purpose...JJ

 

[mojo123]

Ahhhhhh!!!! THANK YOU Jimmy!!! I will definitely be investing in a a cabled thermometer. Now time to give it another whirl.

 

[sandyut]

I have also learned that as it cools its still drying.