Air Fryer Deer Jerky: Can It Be Done?

Deer jerky is a nutritious snack that is traditionally made by drying out strips of meat in a dehydrator. However, it can also be made in an air fryer, which is faster and produces tender and flavourful jerky. Making deer jerky in an air fryer involves selecting the right cut of meat, marinating it, and drying it in the air fryer. The process is simple and results in a delicious and healthy snack.

Choosing the right cut of deer meat

Deer meat, or venison, is a fantastic option for making jerky. It is tender, tasty, and loaded with protein. When it comes to choosing the right cut of deer meat for your jerky, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to look for leaner cuts of meat as fat in jerky can taste weird, have an odd texture, and cause the jerky to spoil faster. Luckily, deer meat is naturally lean, so most cuts will work well. However, some cuts are better than others in terms of price, taste, texture, and ease of preparation.

One great option is the venison neck. While this cut often goes to waste, with a little trimming, it can be turned into a large batch of delicious jerky. The main challenge with the venison neck is the silverskin, which needs to be thoroughly removed as it can become excessively tough and chewy when cooked.

Another good choice is the venison flank. This cut is often overlooked due to its size, but it is highly flavorful, thin, and easy to work with, making it perfect for homemade jerky. Flank is also a good option if you prefer to make smaller batches of jerky.

If you're looking for a more economical option, the venison shoulder is a great choice. While it can be tough, it is also chewy, which some people prefer in their jerky. The main downside of the shoulder is the amount of silverskin that needs to be removed. However, you can soften the meat by allowing it to marinate for a longer period before dehydration.

Pretty much all hindquarter cuts, such as the top and bottom round, eye-of-round, sirloin tip, and rump roast, are ideal for making venison jerky. These cuts are extra-lean and provide a high yield of jerky with minimal trimming. Out of these, the top round is the best option as it has a clean grain that is easy to work with and allows for precise slicing.

On the other hand, there are some cuts that are less ideal for making deer jerky. The backstrap, for example, is very tender and juicy, but it is also pricey and may be better suited for steak. Similarly, the tenderloin is a small, highly prized cut that is often too expensive to justify turning it into jerky. Finally, cuts like shanks and ribs require a lot of work to remove the silverskin, connective tissue, and bones, making them less than ideal for jerky.

Marinating the meat

You can create your own marinade by combining a variety of spices, herbs, and sauces. For a traditional deer jerky flavour, try a combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a touch of liquid smoke. However, feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to suit your taste. For example, you can add chilli flakes for extra heat or use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. You can also add some red pepper, depending on your desired heat level.

Ensure that the meat is well-coated with the marinade and let it sit in a covered container or a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 4 to 24 hours, or even longer for a more intense flavour. The longer the meat sits in the marinade, the more tender it will become.

After marinating, remove the meat from the refrigerator and drain and dry it thoroughly before placing it in the air fryer. This will help ensure that all surfaces of the meat are exposed so that the air fryer can dry it out evenly.

Air fryer temperature and time

The optimal temperature and time settings for making deer jerky in an air fryer are essential to achieving the desired texture and flavour. Here are the key points to consider:

Temperature Control

The air fryer's temperature should be set to a low setting, typically between 160°F and 185°F. This ensures that the meat dries slowly, retaining its tenderness and flavour. The ideal temperature range allows for the removal of moisture without burning the meat.

Preheating

Preheating the air fryer to the desired temperature, such as 160°F or 180°F, for a few minutes before adding the meat is crucial. This step ensures that the meat begins cooking immediately and evenly, leading to more consistent results.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for deer jerky in an air fryer can vary depending on several factors, including the thickness of the meat slices and the specific air fryer model. On average, the process takes around 2 to 4 hours. However, it is important to monitor the jerky closely, especially after the first 1.5 to 2 hours, to prevent overcooking.

Doneness Check

To determine if the deer jerky is ready, it should have a leathery texture with a slight chew. It should bend and crack but not break in half. Using an instant-read meat thermometer is recommended to ensure the jerky reaches an internal temperature of 160°F/71°C, making it safe to consume.

Air Circulation and Rotation

Proper air circulation is vital for even drying. Arrange the meat slices in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap or overcrowd the air fryer basket. Additionally, rotating the meat slices halfway through the cooking time helps ensure even drying and consistent texture and flavour.

Marinade and Flavour

The choice of marinade and flavour profile can also impact the cooking time. Different recipes suggest cooking times ranging from 2 to 3 hours at temperatures between 175°F and 185°F. The key is to monitor the jerky closely and use the visual and texture cues mentioned above to determine doneness.

Storing deer jerky

Deer jerky is a tasty, protein-rich snack that is perfect for on-the-go. But, if you don't store it correctly, it can go stale or spoil. So, how do you store deer jerky properly?

Firstly, it's important to understand that moisture and air are the two main reasons jerky goes bad. Moisture encourages bacterial growth, and air can dry out your jerky, making it tough and unpleasant to chew. Therefore, the best way to store deer jerky is to use an airtight container, limiting its exposure to air and moisture. This could be a traditional Tupperware container or a vacuum-sealed bag. The fewer air molecules in the bag, the less moisture your jerky will absorb.

If you're storing your deer jerky short-term, a simple ziplock bag should suffice. This should keep it good for at least 3-4 weeks. If you're looking for a longer shelf life, consider storing your deer jerky in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid keeping it near heat sources like ovens or radiators, as temperature fluctuations can cause premature spoilage.

For optimum shelf life, you can also try dry canning your deer jerky in mason jars. Here's how:

• Set your oven to 350°F.
• Remove the lids from your mason jars and place them on a cookie sheet.
• Put the jars in the oven for around 10 minutes.
• Remove the jars from the oven using mitts and then quickly put your jerky strips inside.
• Screw on the lids and let the jars cool to room temperature. As they cool, they will create a vacuum seal.

If you want to store your deer jerky for an even longer period, consider refrigerating or freezing it. Refrigeration can extend the freshness of your jerky, especially in warmer climates where room temperature can accelerate spoilage. Freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of deer jerky, and when frozen correctly, it can last several months without losing its quality. To freeze deer jerky, simply place it in a freezer-safe, airtight bag or container and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

So, there you have it! By using airtight containers and storing your deer jerky in cool, dry places, you can keep it fresh and tasty for weeks or even months.

Air fryer vs. dehydrator

Air fryers and dehydrators are both great options for cooking and preserving food, but they have different features and benefits. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide which one suits your needs better.

How They Work

An air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food at high temperatures without oil. It is similar to a convection oven but cooks food faster and more efficiently. Dehydrators, on the other hand, use warm air to dry food at low temperatures, removing moisture content without cooking it. Dehydrators are ideal for preserving food and are often used by those on raw food diets.

Temperature Settings

Air fryers typically have a temperature range of 325°F–450°F, which is suitable for frying and cooking various foods. Dehydrators, on the other hand, have a much lower temperature range, usually between 90°F–145°F, which is essential for effective dehydration without cooking the food.

Size and Capacity

Dehydrators are typically larger than air fryers, making them ideal for dehydrating or preserving large quantities of food. Air fryers are more compact and suitable for smaller spaces. However, air fryers can hold up to four pounds of food, while the capacity of a dehydrator depends on its size and the number of trays or racks available.

Versatility

Air fryers offer more versatility in terms of cooking options. They can cook a wide range of foods, from meats and vegetables to baked goods, without the need for oil. Dehydrators are designed for a specific purpose: to dehydrate food. While they can dehydrate a variety of foods, from fruits and vegetables to meats, they cannot cook food in the same way an air fryer can.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Both air fryers and dehydrators are easy to use and have similar features, such as timers and drip trays for easy cleanup. Air fryers are generally faster and more convenient, with preset options and shorter cooking times. Dehydrators may require more preparation and monitoring, especially when dehydrating meat, to ensure food safety.

Cost

Dehydrators tend to be more expensive than air fryers in terms of initial cost and energy usage. The cost of running a dehydrator can vary depending on the model and the length of the dehydration process, which can be several hours. Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient and cost-effective, with shorter cooking times.

Best Uses

If you are looking to make beef jerky, dried fruits, or other dehydrated snacks, a dehydrator is the ideal choice. It will effectively remove moisture while preserving nutrients. Air fryers are perfect for cooking a wide range of foods, from meats to baked goods, without the need for oil. They are a healthier alternative to deep frying and are ideal for quick, convenient meals.

Both air fryers and dehydrators have their unique advantages. If you are looking for a versatile appliance to cook various dishes and dry foods, an air fryer is a great choice. If you are specifically interested in dehydrating foods like jerky and dried fruits, a dehydrator is the better option, although it may be more costly. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions