Either way, jerky was a compact, easily-transported type of meat that could be made from any animal and was well-suited for long journeys. For the tribes who thrived in the Americas before the colonization, it was a hugely useful way of storing and preserving meat.
Similarly, it is asked,Do you need to refrigerate beef jerky?
Refrigerate Your Beef Jerky. Storing beef jerky after it’s open is all about refrigeration. Once the seal is broken, beef jerky needs to stay cold to maintain its texture, flavor and freshness. Pro tip: To keep your jerky fresh for as long as a week, place it in a zip lock bag and squeeze out all of the air from the bag before refrigerating.
Furthermore,Should beef jerky be stored in the refrigerator?
Storing it in the refrigerator or freezer can extend its shelf life. Beef jerky will last from two weeks to two months when stored in a cool, dark pantry. The jerky retains its texture and taste best when stored in food-grade vacuum-sealed bags, which prevent the meat from oxidizing and becoming moldy.
One may also ask,What should internal temp of beef jerky be?
Place the beef strips on the racks making sure that they are not touching or overlapping. Leaving space in between the slices allows the air to better circulate and dry the meat. 8 – Turn the dehydrator to 160° and let it run for about 4 hours. You want the internal temperature of your jerky to reach 160°.
How do you store homemade jerky?
When placed properly in an airtight container, you can leave your jerky on the counter top or another cool, dry place for no longer than 1 month. Put your jerky in the refrigerator. Jerky can be stored in the refrigerator to be used within 6 months. Store homemade jerky in the freezer.