Salty beef jerky hack: discover the secret to taming the saltiness and maximizing enjoyment

Beef jerky, a savory and portable snack, can sometimes be too salty for our taste buds. If you find yourself with an overly salty batch of jerky, don’t despair! There are several effective methods you can employ to reduce the saltiness and restore the deliciousness of your jerky.

Soaking in Water

One of the simplest and most effective ways to remove excess salt from beef jerky is to soak it in water. Follow these steps:

• Place the jerky in a large bowl or container.
• Fill the container with cold water, ensuring the jerky is fully submerged.
• Let the jerky soak for 1-2 hours, depending on the desired saltiness level.
• Drain the water and pat the jerky dry with paper towels.

Steaming

Steaming is another gentle method that can help reduce saltiness.

• Place the jerky in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water.
• Steam the jerky for 15-20 minutes, or until it becomes slightly pliable.
• Remove the jerky from the steamer and let it cool before storing it.

Using a Humidifier

If you have a humidifier at home, you can use it to create a humid environment that will help draw out the salt from the jerky.

• Place the jerky in a closed container or bag.
• Set up the humidifier near the container and turn it on.
• Leave the jerky in the humid environment for several hours or overnight.
• Remove the jerky and pat it dry with paper towels.

Rinsing with Milk

Milk can help neutralize the saltiness of beef jerky.

• Pour cold milk into a bowl or container large enough to accommodate the jerky.
• Submerge the jerky in the milk and let it soak for 30-60 minutes.
• Drain the milk and rinse the jerky with cold water.
• Pat the jerky dry with paper towels.

Using Vinegar

Vinegar can also help reduce saltiness by breaking down the salt crystals.

• Combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a bowl or container.
• Submerge the jerky in the vinegar solution and let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
• Drain the solution and rinse the jerky with cold water.
• Pat the jerky dry with paper towels.

Drying the Jerky

After reducing the saltiness using any of the above methods, it’s important to dry the jerky thoroughly to prevent spoilage.

• Preheat your oven to the lowest possible setting, usually around 150-175°F (65-80°C).
• Place the jerky on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake the jerky for 1-2 hours, or until it becomes dry and crispy.
• Let the jerky cool completely before storing it.

Tips for Preventing Salty Jerky

• Use low-sodium soy sauce or marinades when preparing the jerky.
• Taste the jerky before drying it to adjust the saltiness as needed.
• Use a food dehydrator instead of an oven to avoid over-drying the jerky, which can make it more salty.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use any type of milk to reduce saltiness?
A: Yes, you can use any type of milk, including whole milk, skim milk, or almond milk.

Q: How long can I store de-salted jerky?
A: De-salted jerky should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I freeze de-salted jerky?
A: Yes, you can freeze de-salted jerky for up to 6 months. Thaw the jerky in the refrigerator before consuming.

Q: Why does beef jerky become salty?
A: Beef jerky is typically made with a salty marinade or rub to preserve it and enhance its flavor. However, too much salt can overpower the other flavors in the jerky.

Q: Can I reduce the saltiness of jerky after it has been dried?
A: Yes, you can use the methods outlined above to reduce the saltiness of dried jerky. However, it may not be as effective as reducing the saltiness before drying.

Q: What are some other ways to enjoy beef jerky?
A: Beef jerky can be eaten on its own as a snack, added to salads or sandwiches for a savory crunch, or used as a topping for soups and stews.