How To Smoke Venison Jerky In An Electric Smoker

How to Make Delicious Venison Jerky in an Electric Smoker

Are you a fan of venison jerky? Do you own an electric smoker? If you answered yes to both of these questions, then you’re in for a treat! Smoking venison jerky in an electric smoker is a great way to infuse delicious flavors while preserving the meat. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create mouthwatering venison jerky using an electric smoker.

Choosing the Right Venison

Before you start smoking your jerky, it’s important to choose the right cut of venison. Look for lean cuts such as the hindquarters or backstraps. Trim off any excess fat and connective tissue to ensure that your jerky turns out tender and flavorful.

Preparing the Marinade

The key to flavorful venison jerky is in the marinade. You can use a variety of ingredients to create a delicious marinade, such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Marinating the venison for at least 8 hours, or overnight, will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Slicing the Venison

Once the venison has marinated, it’s time to slice it into thin strips. Aim for a thickness of around 1/4 inch to ensure that the jerky cooks evenly. You can slice the meat with the grain for a chewier texture, or against the grain for a more tender jerky.

Prepping the Electric Smoker

Before you start smoking, preheat your electric smoker to around 160°F. Line the racks with aluminum foil to catch any drips and make cleanup easier. If your smoker has a water pan, fill it with water to help maintain moisture during the smoking process.

Smoking the Venison Jerky

Once the smoker is preheated, arrange the venison strips on the racks, leaving space between each piece for the smoke to circulate. Close the smoker and let the jerky smoke for 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember to periodically check the wood chips and water levels to ensure a consistent smoking environment.

Testing for Doneness

To test if the jerky is done, remove a piece from the smoker and let it cool for a few minutes. It should be firm and slightly bendable, but not brittle. If it’s still too soft, return it to the smoker for additional smoking time.

Storing the Venison Jerky

Once the jerky is done, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or resealable bags. Properly stored venison jerky can last for several weeks, although it’s unlikely to stick around for that long once you taste it!

Enjoying Your Homemade Venison Jerky

Now that you’ve mastered the art of smoking venison jerky in an electric smoker, it’s time to sit back and savor the fruits of your labor. Enjoy your delicious homemade venison jerky as a snack, a topping for salads, or a protein-packed addition to your trail mix. Share it with friends and family, and bask in the compliments you’re sure to receive!

Smoking venison jerky in an electric smoker is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy this lean and flavorful meat. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can create mouthwatering venison jerky that will keep you coming back for more. So fire up your electric smoker and get ready to enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of homemade venison jerky!