From Elk to Alligator: Explore the World of Exotic Meat Jerky with Bag of Jerks

Introduction

Jerky is a popular snack that has been around for centuries. It is a delicious and convenient way to get your protein fix, especially when you're on the go. While beef jerky is the most common type of jerky available, there are many other types of jerky made from exotic meats that are equally delicious. In this blog post, we will explore the world of exotic meat jerky and introduce you to some of the different types of jerky available.

What is Exotic Meat Jerky?

Exotic meat jerky is jerky made from non-traditional meats like elk, alligator, ostrich, and more. These meats are considered exotic because they are not commonly eaten in everyday cuisine. Jerky made from these meats is gaining popularity due to its unique taste, high protein content, and low-fat content compared to traditional beef jerky.

Benefits of Exotic Meat Jerky

Exotic meat jerky has several benefits over traditional beef jerky. Firstly, it is often leaner and contains less fat. Secondly, it is more sustainable as it uses meats that are not commonly consumed. Lastly, it offers a unique flavor experience that cannot be found in traditional jerky.

Types of Exotic Meats Used in Jerky

Elk Jerky

Elk jerky is made from the meat of elk, which is a member of the deer family. Elk meat is leaner than beef and has a sweet, rich flavor. Elk jerky is a great source of protein and is becoming increasingly popular due to its unique taste.

Shark Jerky

Shark jerky is made from the meat of sharks. It has a chewy texture and a mild flavor that is often compared to chicken. Shark jerky is a great source of protein and is a popular snack in many coastal regions around the world.

Salmon Jerky

Salmon jerky is made from the meat of salmon, which is a fatty fish. The jerky has a slightly sweet flavor and a chewy texture. Salmon jerky is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good health.

Snapping Turtle Jerky

Snapping turtle jerky is made from the meat of snapping turtles. The meat has a firm texture and a slightly gamey flavor. Snapping turtle jerky is a popular snack in many parts of the United States, especially in the southern states.

Alligator Jerky

Alligator jerky is made from the meat of alligators. The meat is lean and has a mild flavor that is often compared to chicken. Alligator jerky is a great source of protein and is becoming increasingly popular due to its unique taste.

Venison Jerky

Venison jerky is made from the meat of deer. The meat has a rich, gamey flavor and is often used in traditional cuisine. Venison jerky is a great source of protein and is a popular snack among hunters and outdoorsmen.

Buffalo Jerky

Buffalo jerky is made from the meat of bison, also known as buffalo. The meat is leaner than beef and has a slightly sweeter flavor. Buffalo jerky is a great source of protein and is a popular snack among health-conscious individuals.

Ostrich Jerky

Ostrich jerky is made from the meat of ostriches. The meat is leaner than beef and has a slightly gamey flavor. Ostrich jerky is a great source of protein and is becoming increasingly popular due to its unique taste.

Goose Jerky

Goose jerky is made from the meat of geese. The meat is leaner than beef and has a slightly gamey flavor. Goose jerky is a great source of protein and is popular among hunters and outdoorsmen.

Duck Jerky

Duck jerky is made from the meat of ducks. The meat has a rich, gamey flavor that is often used in traditional cuisine. Duck jerky is a great source of protein and is a popular snack among hunters and outdoorsmen.

The Art of Making Exotic Meat Jerky

Selecting the Right Cut of Meat

Choosing the Meat

When making exotic meat jerky, it is important to choose the right cut of meat. Bag of Jerks looks for lean cuts with minimal visible fat, as this results in a better final product. The cut should also be relatively uniform in thickness to ensure even drying during the cooking process. This ensures a perfectly tender piece every time. 

Preparing the Meat

Once we have chosen the right cut of meat, it is important to prepare it properly. This often involves trimming any excess fat and connecting tissues, as well as removing any bones that may be present. It is essential to clean the meat thoroughly to ensure that it is free of bacteria and contaminants.

Cutting the Meat

The next step in making Bag of Jerks exotic meat jerky is cutting the meat into thin strips. These strips are approximately 1/4-inch thick and cut across the grain of the meat. Cutting across the grain helps to tenderize the meat and makes it easier to chew once it has been dried.

Seasoning and Spices

Flavor Profiles

The flavors of exotic meat jerky can vary greatly depending on the type of meat used and the seasonings added. Some common flavor profiles include salty, sweet, sour, and spicy. Bag of Jerks has experimented to great lengths to make the best flavors available.

Locally Sourced Ingredients

With Bag of Jerks exotic meat jerky, it is important to us that we use high-quality, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. This not only supports local businesses but also ensures that the flavors of the jerky are authentic and true to their origins. We prefer using fresh herbs, spices, and other ingredients from local farmers markets and specialty shops.

Cooking and Smoking Techniques

Thick Cut vs. Thin Cut

The thickness of our jerky strips can have a significant impact on the final product. Thicker strips will take longer to dry and may have a chewier texture, while thinner strips will dry more quickly and may be more tender. We have experimented with different thicknesses to find a preferred jerky texture that is universally acclaimed. 

Smoking Methods

There are several methods for cooking exotic meat jerky, including smoking, dehydrating, and baking. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to us that we chose the one that best suits our flavors. Smoking adds a unique flavor to the jerky and can be done using a variety of wood chips, such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood.

Popular Flavors and Varieties of Exotic Meat Jerky

Original Flavor

The original flavor of exotic meat jerky typically consists of a simple blend of salt, pepper, and other basic seasonings. This allows the natural flavors of the exotic meat to shine through without being overwhelmed by additional spices.

Teriyaki Flavor

Teriyaki flavored exotic meat jerky is made with a sweet and savory marinade that typically includes soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. This flavor profile adds an Asian twist to the jerky and pairs well with meats like elk, bison, and ostrich.

Peppered Flavor

Peppered exotic meat jerky is seasoned with a generous amount of black pepper, giving it a bold and spicy taste. This flavor is particularly popular with kangaroo jerky, as the pepper complements the lean red meat without overpowering its natural flavor.

Sweet and Spicy Flavor

Sweet and spicy flavored exotic meat jerky combines the best of both worlds, offering a delicious balance of sweetness and heat. The combination of flavors can be achieved through various ingredients such as honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup for sweetness and cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce for spiciness. This flavor profile works well with a variety of exotic meats.

Hot and Spicy Flavor

For those who love a bit of heat, hot and spicy exotic meat jerky is the way to go. Made with ingredients like cayenne pepper,jalapenos, or habanero peppers, this flavor profile packs a punch and is sure to satisfy those who crave a spicy kick. Hot and spicy jerky pairs well with meats like alligator, venison, and duck.

BBQ Flavor

BBQ flavored exotic meat jerky is seasoned with a mix of spices and sauces that mimic the taste of traditional barbecue. Ingredients often include smoked paprika, tomato sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar. This flavor profile works well with a variety of exotic meats, providing a smoky, sweet, and tangy taste that many find irresistible.

Garlic Flavor

Garlic flavored exotic meat jerky features the robust and savory taste of garlic, combined with other seasonings like salt, pepper, and onion powder. This flavor profile pairs well with meats like bison, ostrich, and goose, enhancing their natural flavors without overpowering them.

Mango Habanero Flavor

Habanero mango flavored exotic meat jerky combines the heat of habanero chili peppers with the zesty tang of mango juice. This unique flavor profile adds a refreshing twist to the jerky, working well with meats like shark, snapping turtle, and salmon.

Whiskey Flavor

Whiskey flavored exotic meat jerky is made with a blend of sweet honey and tangy whiskey, creating a balanced and delicious taste. This flavor profile complements meats like elk, venison, and duck, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances their natural flavors.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Bag of Jerks Exotic Meat Jerky

On-the-Go Snacking

Bag of Jerks exotic meat jerky is an excellent choice for on-the-go snacking, as it is portable and requires no refrigeration. Toss a bag of your favorite jerky in your backpack, purse, or gym bag for a protein-packed snack anytime, anywhere.

Entertaining Guests

Impress your guests by offering a variety of exotic meat jerky at your next gathering. Create a charcuterie board with different types of jerky, cheeses, crackers, and fruits for an elegant and adventurous appetizer that is sure to be a conversation starter.

Incorporating into Recipes

Bag of Jerks exotic meat jerky can also be used as an ingredient in various dishes, adding a unique flavor and texture to your meals. Try chopping up some jerky and adding it to salads, stir-fries, or even scrambled eggs for a tasty protein boost.

Pairing with Drinks

Bag of Jerks exotic meat jerky can make a great companion to your favorite beverage. Pair different jerky flavors with complementary drinks, such as elk jerky with a bold red wine, or alligator jerky with a crisp, refreshing beer. Experiment with different pairings to find your favorite combinations.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Bag of Jerks Exotic Meat Jerky

Overall, Bag of Jerks offers a delicious and unique snacking experience that is both convenient and packed with protein. With a variety of flavors to choose from, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're on-the-go, entertaining guests, incorporating it into recipes, or pairing it with your favorite drink, there are endless possibilities for enjoying this tasty treat. So next time you're looking for a snack, why not try some Bag of Jerks exotic meat jerky and discover a new flavor that you'll love?