Homemade The Sausage Maker - Uncle Abe' Jerky Seasoning Kit w InstaCure 1 Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Classic

Category: Jerky Seasoning

Introduction

The Sausage Maker - Uncle Abe' Jerky Seasoning Kit with InstaCure 1 has long been a favorite among jerky enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of spices that enhance the natural flavor of meats while ensuring safety through its curing process. This seasoning mix is renowned for its balanced flavor profile, combining spicy, savory, and slightly sweet elements. However, for health-conscious cooks, the desire to reduce sodium and sugar content, along with avoiding additives, has sparked interest in homemade alternatives.

Making your own jerky seasoning at home allows for customization, better nutritional control, and cost-effectiveness. This recipe captures the essence of Uncle Abe's blend while offering healthier tweaks, such as using organic spices and less refined sugar, all without compromising on the essential curing salt for safety.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own jerky seasoning at home provides several advantages. It allows you to tailor the flavor to your liking, reduce sodium and sugar content, and avoid preservatives found in commercial products. Additionally, homemade seasoning can be cost-effective and offers the satisfaction of creating something from scratch.

Personal Anecdote

I recall my first attempt at making homemade jerky. The store-bought seasoning was convenient but left me wanting more control over the flavor and ingredients. After some trial and error, I developed this recipe, which not only mirrors the taste I loved but also aligns with my healthier lifestyle. It's since become a staple in my kitchen, offering the perfect balance of spices and the confidence of knowing exactly what goes into my food.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:3-4 hours (dehydrator) or 3-4 hours (oven)
• **Total Time:3-4 hours
• Yield: Enough for 5 lbs of meat

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (60g) Smoked Paprika
• 1/4 cup (30g) Garlic Powder
• 1/4 cup (30g) Onion Powder
• 2 tbsp (30g) Brown Sugar (or to taste)
• 2 tbsp (30g) Salt
• 1 tbsp (15g) Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp (15g) Ground Cumin
• 1 tsp (5g) Cayenne Pepper (optional, for some heat)

Curing Salt:

• 1 packet (2.5g) InstaCure No. 1 (contains sodium nitrite)

Instructions

• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well combined.

• Add Curing Salt: Open the InstaCure packet and thoroughly mix it into the dry ingredients. Ensure even distribution for food safety.

• Prepare Meat: Slice your chosen meat (beef, turkey, or venison) into thin strips. For even drying, aim for uniform thickness.

• **Apply Seasoning:### Toss meat strips with the seasoning mix until evenly coated. For enhanced flavor, let marinate in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours or overnight.

• **Dry the Meat:

• Dehydrator: Place strips in a single layer and dry at 160°F (71°C) for 3-4 hours until chewy and dry.

  • Oven: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lay out strips, and dry at the lowest temperature setting (usually 150°F) for 3-4 hours. Prop the door slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape.

• Cool and Store: Once dry, let jerky cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.

Variations

• Low-Sodium Version: Reduce salt to 1 tbsp and use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari if adding moisture.
• Spicy Version: Increase cayenne pepper to 1.5 tsp or add red pepper flakes.
• Smoky Version: Add 1 tbsp of liquid smoke to the marinade for a deeper flavor.

Pro Tips

• Even Distribution: Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed for consistent flavor and food safety.
• Marinating: For a more robust flavor, marinate for 24 hours.
• Storage: Store jerky in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness and flavor.

Nutritional Comparison (per serving)

FAQ

• Can I omit InstaCure? No, InstaCure is crucial for preventing botulism in jerky.
• What meats can I use? Beef, turkey, and venison are popular choices.
• How long does it last? Jerky can be stored at room temperature for a week or frozen for 2 months.
• Can I adjust the spice level? Yes, adjust cayenne pepper to your taste.
• Is this gluten-free? Yes, assuming all ingredients are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Snack: Enjoy as a protein-rich snack.
• Meal Prep: Add to salads or wraps for a savory boost.
• Hiking: Perfect lightweight snack for outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

This homemade jerky seasoning offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought mixes, maintaining the delicious flavor you love with better control over ingredients. Whether you're a jerky aficionado or a health-conscious cook, this recipe is a must-try. Share your creations and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness!