Zesty Spicy Turkey Jerky
Elevate your snacking game with this flavorful and zesty Spicy Turkey Jerky recipe! Perfect for outdoor adventures, movie nights, or just satisfying that savory craving. The combination of turkey meat marinated in a bold blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire, and a kick of Tabasco creates a savory and spicy treat that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein. Easy to prepare and perfect for making in batches, this jerky is a great way to enjoy a quick snack that is both satisfying and nutritious. Don't forget to share this delicious recipe with friends and family!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Turkey meat
1 lb (sliced thin)
Liquid smoke
2 tablespoons
Soy sauce
3 tablespoons
Tabasco sauce
10 dashes (or to taste)
Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup
Hickory liquid smoke
1 1/2 teaspoons
Onion salt
1 tablespoon
Instructions
1
In a large marinade dish, combine the liquid smoke, soy sauce, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hickory liquid smoke, and onion salt. Mix well to combine.
2
Add the thinly sliced turkey meat to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
3
Cover the dish and refrigerate for 8 to 24 hours, allowing the turkey to absorb all the flavors.
4
After marinating, remove the turkey strips from the marinade. Use a paper towel to pat them dry and remove any excess liquid.
5
Arrange the turkey strips in a single layer on dehydrator trays, making sure they are not overlapping.
6
Set your dehydrator to 165°F (74°C) or higher and dehydrate the turkey for 4 to 8 hours, checking periodically. The jerky is done when it is firm yet slightly pliable, with no wet spots.
7
Once finished, remove the jerky from the dehydrator and allow it to cool before storing in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Spicy Turkey Jerky?
It is a savory and spicy snack made by marinating thin slices of turkey meat and then dehydrating them until firm yet pliable.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 1 lb of turkey meat, sliced thin.
How long should the turkey marinate?
For the best flavor absorption, the turkey should be refrigerated in the marinade for 8 to 24 hours.
What temperature should the dehydrator be set to?
Set your dehydrator to 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) or higher.
How long does it take to dehydrate the jerky?
Dehydration typically takes between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the thickness of the slices and your specific dehydrator.
Is this turkey jerky spicy?
Yes, it features a bold blend of Tabasco sauce and savory seasonings to provide a zesty and spicy kick.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! You can use more or less Tabasco sauce to suit your personal heat preference.
What ingredients are in the marinade?
The marinade consists of liquid smoke, soy sauce, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hickory liquid smoke, and onion salt.
How do I know when the jerky is finished?
The jerky is done when it is firm yet slightly pliable, with no visible wet spots.
How should I store the homemade jerky?
Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Is this snack high in protein?
Yes, turkey jerky is a protein-packed snack, making it a great option for nutrition on the go.
Why do I need to pat the turkey dry?
Patting the turkey dry with a paper towel removes excess liquid, which helps the dehydration process work more efficiently.
Can I use an oven if I do not have a dehydrator?
While a dehydrator is recommended, many jerky recipes can be adapted for an oven at its lowest setting with the door slightly propped open.
What is the purpose of liquid smoke?
Liquid smoke provides a deep, smoky flavor without the need for a traditional wood smoker.
How thin should I slice the turkey?
The turkey should be sliced thin to ensure even marinating and consistent dehydration.
What flavor does Worcestershire sauce add?
Worcestershire sauce adds a complex, savory, and slightly tangy depth to the jerky marinade.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor activities?
Yes, it is an excellent snack for outdoor adventures, hiking, or camping because it is lightweight and shelf-stable.
Does the recipe use onion salt?
Yes, one tablespoon of onion salt is used to enhance the savory flavor profile.
Is it necessary to refrigerate during marinating?
Yes, you must cover the dish and refrigerate it for the entire 8 to 24 hour marinating period for safety and flavor.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, this jerky is perfect for making in large batches; just ensure your dehydrator trays aren't overcrowded.
What makes the jerky zesty?
The combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire, and Tabasco creates the signature zesty and bold flavor profile.
How many ingredients are required?
There are 7 primary ingredients used in this Zesty Spicy Turkey Jerky recipe.
Is this a healthy snack option?
Yes, it is a nutritious and satisfying snack that is high in protein and lower in fat than many processed snacks.
Should the turkey strips overlap on the dehydrator trays?
No, you should arrange the turkey strips in a single layer without overlapping to ensure proper airflow.
What is the texture of the final product?
The finished jerky should be firm but still have some flexibility, rather than being brittle.
Can I use frozen turkey?
You should thaw frozen turkey completely before slicing and marinating for the best results.
Does this recipe use hickory smoke?
Yes, it specifically calls for 1 1/2 teaspoons of hickory liquid smoke for an extra layer of flavor.
How much soy sauce is needed?
The recipe uses 3 tablespoons of soy sauce as a base for the marinade.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, the process is straightforward and easy to follow for anyone with a dehydrator.
Can I share this recipe?
Absolutely! This delicious jerky is a great treat to share with friends and family.