Mastering Perfect Jerky: How to Tell When It’s Dried to Perfection

However, achieving the perfect texture and flavour in your homemade jerky can be a bit of an art. Knowing when your jerky is done is the key to achieving that ideal balance of flavour, tenderness, and texture

To determine if jerky is done, the best approach is to gently bend the piece of jerky to test for resistance without it breaking. You should be able to bend it and see white fibres without it being too wet or too brittle so that it snaps. The other way to tell is by visually examining to see a consistent colour change from the raw colour to a darker hue.

By combining these visual and tactile checks, you can confidently determine when your jerky is done. Remember that practice makes perfect, and as you become more familiar with the process, you’ll develop a keen intuition for achieving the ideal jerky consistency.

In this article, we’ll explore the intricacies of determining when your jerky is done, the ideal consistency, and the crucial steps to take during the dehydrating process. Let’s get into it.

Table of Contents

How To Tell When Jerky Is Done?

One of the critical factors in crafting exceptional jerky is knowing when it’s done. Undercooking can produce a chewy, rubbery texture while overcooking may render it brittle and tasteless (although some people love it very dry). Here’s how to ensure your jerky is perfectly done:

Colour and Texture:
- Look for a consistent colour change. The meat should transform from its raw appearance to a uniform, slightly darker hue. This indicates that the dehydration process is working effectively.
- Gently bend a piece of jerky. It should exhibit flexibility without breaking. When you bend it, you should see white fibres in the meat. If it snaps easily, it’s a sign of over-drying, and you should remove your jerky.
Feel and Firmness:
- Touch the jerky. It should feel dry and leathery to the touch but still maintain a pliable quality. If it feels excessively wet or overly brittle, further dehydration may be needed or it could be a sign of overcooking.
- Press your fingernail into a piece of jerky. It should slightly tear but not crumble. This indicates the right level of moisture retention, striking a balance between tenderness and firmness.
Internal Temperature:
- For safety, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the jerky. It should reach at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure that any harmful bacteria are eliminated.
- Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the jerky, avoiding contact with the tray or excessive fat. Once the desired temperature is reached, your jerky is ready for consumption.
Testing Dryness:
- Perform the “Bend Test” by taking a cooled piece of jerky and bending it. It should bend and crack but not break. If it breaks, it’s likely over-dried.
- The “Tear Test” involves tearing a piece of jerky. If it tears easily and the fibres are visible, it’s a good indicator that the jerky is adequately dried.
- Another test is the “Visual Inspection.” Examine the jerky closely for any signs of moisture or undercooking. The surface should be dry, with no pockets of wetness.

How Long Does It Take For Beef Jerky To Be Done?

The time required to make perfect beef jerky can vary depending on several factors, such as the thickness of the slices, the humidity in your environment, and the method of dehydration. However, a general guideline is to expect the process to take around 4 to 12 hours.

Thin Slices vs. Thick Slices:
- Thin slices will dehydrate faster than thicker ones. If you prefer a quicker process, aim for thin, uniform slices. If you like more moisture in your jerky, opt for thicker sliced, but expect a longer dehydration time.

Dehydrator Settings:
- The temperature and settings of your dehydrator play a crucial role. Generally, set your dehydrator to 160°F (71°C) for jerky. If you set your dehydrator or oven higher, your meat will dehydrate quicker but may also cook and result in a less-than-ideal jerky outcome.
Marinating Time:
- The time you marinate your meat can also affect dehydration time. Longer marinating periods mean the meat will have started breaking down more with the effect of the salt and other ingredients. This will result in a shorter drying time, but the longer marination time will make the general process longer.

What Consistency Should Jerky Be?

The perfect jerky strikes a delicate balance between tenderness and firmness. Achieving the ideal consistency involves paying attention to both the preparation and dehydration stages. And while there is a personal preference for how dry an individual likes their jerky, there is a level required for safety. Here’s what to look for:

Tenderness:
- Jerky should be tender enough to enjoy without feeling like you’re chewing on a leather strap. The meat fibres should separate easily when bitten into. This can also be affected by how you cut your meat, if you cut your meat with the grain, it will be easier to chew through.
Firmness:
- While tender, jerky should still offer a satisfying chew. It should not crumble in your hands but rather provide a resistance that adds to the overall eating experience.

How Do You Know When Jerky Is Done In The Dehydrator?

Determining when your jerky is done in the dehydrator involves a keen eye and a few practical considerations. Regular checks during the dehydration process are essential for monitoring changes in colour, texture, and firmness.

Firstly, observe the colour of the jerky; it should have a consistent, darker appearance compared to its raw state. Touch the jerky periodically – it should feel dry and leathery but still pliable. Adjust the dehydrator temperature if needed; lowering it can prevent the jerky from drying too quickly on the outside while remaining moist inside

Regular Checks:
- Periodically check the jerky during the dehydration process. This allows you to monitor changes in colour, texture, and firmness.
Consistency Across Batches:
- Note that different batches of jerky may require slightly different dehydration times. Factors such as meat thickness and ambient humidity can influence the process.

Adjusting Temperature:
- If you find that the jerky is drying too quickly on the outside while remaining moist inside, consider lowering the dehydrator temperature.

Should I Flip Jerky In The Dehydrator?

Flipping the jerky during the dehydration process ensures that both sides dry evenly and prevents the meat from sticking to the trays. Flip the jerky approximately halfway through the process. This prevents one side from drying faster than the other, contributing to a uniformly textured jerky, Follow these steps for optimal results:

Flipping Interval:
- Flip the jerky slices approximately halfway through the dehydration process. This ensures that both sides receive equal exposure to the drying air.
Use Parchment Paper:
- Placing parchment paper on the dehydrator trays can prevent the jerky from sticking, making it easier to flip and remove once done.
Consistent Drying:
- Flipping promotes uniform dehydration, reducing the risk of unevenly dried or undercooked spots in your jerky.

How Long To Let Jerky Cool After Dehydrating?

Allowing your jerky to cool properly is a crucial final step in the process which is also important to do before testing your jerky for doneness. Follow these guidelines for the best results:

Room Temperature Cooling:
- Remove the jerky from the dehydrator and let it cool to room temperature. This helps the flavours settle and the texture to stabilise.

Storage Preparation:
- Only pack your jerky for storage after it has completely cooled. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can lead to spoilage.
Airtight Storage:
- Store your jerky in airtight containers to maintain its freshness. Properly stored jerky can last for weeks or even months. (Here is a helpful article on the best ways to store jerky)

Mastering the art of making jerky involves a combination of precision, patience, and a keen eye. By understanding the key indicators of doneness, the factors influencing dehydration time, and the importance of consistency, you can have perfect jerky every time. Whether you’re a seasoned jerky enthusiast or a novice looking to embark on this flavorful journey, follow these guidelines to ensure your homemade jerky is nothing short of perfection.