7 Easy Tricks To Make Beef Jerky Less Salty – Never Eat Salty Jerky Again!
What To Know
- If you don’t mind adding some moisture back into the jerky, rehydrating it with a flavorful sauce can help reduce the saltiness.
- Place the jerky in a bowl or container and pour the sauce over it.
- Yes, you can use milk to soak the jerky, but be aware that it may add a slight creaminess to the flavor.
Beef jerky, a beloved snack known for its intense flavor, can sometimes pack a punch in the saltiness department. If you’ve found yourself with a batch of jerky that’s a bit too salty for your taste, don’t despair. With a few simple techniques, you can easily reduce the saltiness and enjoy your jerky without sacrificing flavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you tame the salinity:
Soaking in Water
The simplest and most effective method for removing excess salt from beef jerky is to soak it in water. Follow these steps:
1. Place the jerky in a large bowl or container.
2. Fill the bowl with cold water, ensuring the jerky is fully submerged.
3. Soak for 30-60 minutes, depending on the desired level of saltiness reduction.
4. Drain the water and pat the jerky dry with paper towels.
Steaming
Steaming is another gentle method that helps draw out the salt. Here’s how to do it:
1. Place a steamer basket in a large pot filled with 1-2 inches of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil.
3. Place the jerky in the steamer basket and steam for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove the jerky and let it cool before enjoying.
Rinsing with Vinegar
Vinegar’s acidity can help neutralize the saltiness. Follow these steps:
1. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl.
2. Dip the jerky into the solution and gently rinse it with your fingers.
3. Rinse the jerky thoroughly with cold water.
4. Pat it dry with paper towels.
Rehydrating with Sauce
If you don’t mind adding some moisture back into the jerky, rehydrating it with a flavorful sauce can help reduce the saltiness. Here’s how:
1. Choose a sauce with low sodium content.
2. Place the jerky in a bowl or container and pour the sauce over it.
3. Let the jerky soak for 10-15 minutes.
4. Drain the excess sauce and enjoy.
Trimming the Edges
The edges of beef jerky tend to be saltier than the center. Trimming them off can significantly reduce the overall saltiness. Simply use a sharp knife to cut off the edges around the perimeter of the jerky.
Using Seasonings and Spices
Adding additional seasonings and spices can help balance out the saltiness. Try sprinkling some garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite herbs on the jerky before eating it.
Avoiding Over-Salting in the Future
To prevent overly salty jerky in the future, consider these tips:
- Use a kitchen scale to measure the salt accurately.
- Taste the marinade before applying it to the jerky.
- Reduce the amount of salt in the marinade gradually until you find the desired flavor balance.
Wrapping Up
Making beef jerky less salty is a simple process that can be achieved with a few easy techniques. Whether you choose to soak, steam, rinse, rehydrate, trim, or add seasonings, you can enjoy your jerky without the overwhelming saltiness. Remember, it’s always better to start with a slightly under-salted batch and adjust the flavor as needed.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I use milk instead of water for soaking?
A: Yes, you can use milk to soak the jerky, but be aware that it may add a slight creaminess to the flavor.
Q: How long can I soak the jerky in water?
A: It depends on the desired level of saltiness reduction. For a moderate reduction, soak for 30-60 minutes. For a more significant reduction, soak for up to 2 hours.
Q: Can I rehydrate the jerky with a marinade?
A: Yes, you can use a marinade with low sodium content to rehydrate the jerky and add additional flavor.
