Last Updated on July 1, 2024 by Veronica Sparks
Have you ever wondered what to do with those leftover Thanksgiving turkey slices that are sitting in your fridge? Instead of reheating them for the umpteenth time, why not transform them into delicious homemade jerky? Making homemade turkey jerky is not only a fantastic way to reduce food waste but also a satisfying and healthy snack option. We’ll walk you through the steps how to make homemade jerky from your leftover Thanksgiving turkey.
Why Make Homemade Jerky from Thanksgiving Turkey?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore why making homemade jerky from your leftover Thanksgiving turkey is a great idea:
- Reducing Food Waste: Thanksgiving often leaves us with more turkey than we can eat. If you’ve run out of ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers, turning your remaining turkey into jerky ensures nothing goes to waste.
- Healthy Snacking: Homemade turkey jerky is a nutritious and protein-packed snack, free from preservatives and additives found in store-bought options.
- Customizable Flavors: You have full control over the flavors and seasonings, allowing you to create jerky that suits your taste perfectly.
Related Article: How to Recycle Food Waste: 8 Ways to Use Those Kitchen Scraps
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- Turkey Leftovers: Sliced turkey meat from your Thanksgiving feast.
- Marinade Ingredients: Depending on your flavor preferences, you’ll need ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and brown sugar.
Preparing the Turkey and Marinade
Begin by slicing your leftover turkey into thin strips. It’s essential to have uniform slices to ensure even drying and flavor absorption.
Prepare your marinade by combining the chosen ingredients in a bowl. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste, but a balance of salty, sweet, and savory flavors works best.
Marinating the Turkey
Place the turkey slices into a resealable plastic bag or a container with a lid. Pour the marinade over the turkey, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Choosing a Drying Method
There are several methods to dry turkey jerky, including oven drying, dehydrating with an electric or DIY solar dehydrator, or using a smoker. Each method has its own benefits and unique flavor profile. Choose the one that suits you best!
Oven Drying
- Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 175°F (80°C).
- Place the marinated turkey strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Bake for 2-4 hours, checking for doneness.
Using a Dehydrator
- Arrange the marinated turkey strips on the dehydrator trays.
- Set the dehydrator to the turkey jerky setting or a low temperature (typically around 160°F or 71°C).
- Dehydrate for 4-6 hours.
Using a Smoker
If you have a smoker, you can use it to add a smoky flavor to your turkey jerky. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for smoking times and temperatures.
Final Considerations
Flavor Variations
Experiment with different flavors to keep your jerky exciting:
- Spicy Jerky: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a fiery kick.
- Sweet and Savory Jerky: Incorporate honey and rosemary for a delightful contrast.
Tips and Tricks
To master the art of making turkey jerky:
- Adjust drying times for your preferred texture, whether you like it soft and chewy or more on the crispy side.
- Try different marinades and seasoning combinations to discover your favorite flavors.
Safety Considerations
Ensure your turkey jerky is safe to consume by paying attention to temperature and storage:
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the jerky reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Store the jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bags to maintain freshness.
Learn How To Make Homemade Jerky Today!
Homemade turkey jerky is a fantastic way to transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a tasty and healthy snack. With a little preparation and the right technique, you can create customized jerky that satisfies your taste buds.
FAQs: How to Make Homemade Jerky
What’s the best way to slice turkey for jerky?
To achieve uniform slices, partially freeze the turkey before slicing. Use a sharp knife to cut thin, even strips.
How long can I store homemade turkey jerky?
When stored in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag, homemade turkey jerky can last up to 1-2 months.
What are some creative marinade ideas for turkey jerky?
Get creative with marinades by experimenting with ingredients like teriyaki sauce, maple syrup, or smoky barbecue flavors.