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The Dehydrator Method
A dehydrator simply takes the moisture out of a product. You can dehydrate fruits, vegetables and meats with great results. This web site will only cover the making of Beef Jerky for now.
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I have the Nesco/American Harvest Food Deydrator and Jerky Maker and it has been put to good use! When I was first making Jerky in the oven, I thought, 'This isn't so bad.' but after getting the dehydrator, I can't imagine ever using the oven method again! The dehydrator is so easy to use and clean up.
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After following the steps in Getting Started, load each tray and try not to have the meat touching, and create patterns that allow air to flow through the tray.
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The smaller pieces will dry anywhere from 2-3 hours. Larger pieces may take up to 5 hours. Drying times vary due to dehydrator motor differences and size of meat strips. Typically in a dehydrator there is no need to rotate or move the trays, but you can if you need an excuse to sneak a piece. (NOTE: You should never eat raw beef!)
The images below illustrate how jerky that is 'DONE' should look:
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 Not Done.
The meat does not 'crack' and is still moist. |
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 Done.
See how the meat is dry and stringy? |
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You can pick up a dehydrator for around $30-$40 at Nesco/American Harvest (1-800-288-4545) or most any Target, Walmart or similar store. Features vary. But they all work. Buy a set of extra trays if they offer them.
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[HOME]
Start |
Recipe |
Oven Method |
• Dehydrator • |
Finish
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Page Last updated:
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