Jerky Gun?
 

I stumbled upon a reference to jerky guns in a thread on jerky. What's your fav brand of jerky gun? Any specific tips on using them? What's the texture and dryness/moistness/chewyness of the final product? How long does the jerky keep? Can it be frozen? Can the jerky strips be cooked in an oven or does one also need a dehydrator?

I'm getting really tired of my go to grab and go food and am looking for something new. I generally only use salt and pepper for seasoning so wouldn't be making anything with "exotic herbs" I'll go do some googling but wanted first hand tips from a place that I trust. :)

Just look on Amazon and get the best one there. Mine is what I think most people get. Red capped/handled one.

Jerky can be frozen. If you use a preservative or enough salt you can keep it just in a container. It can be chewy or crispy. I used to make turkey jerky with ground turkey and it got really dry and crispy. I actually liked it crispy. Reminded me of chips. If you use a brisket or something like that and don't dry it at too high a temperature it should be chewy, but I haven't done that.

https://www.amazon.com/Nesco-BJX-5-...words=jerky+gun That's what I have.

Oh, presumably you wouldn't need a gun if you use a brisket or steak.

Thanks Nancy. I don't use Amazon but might be able to find one locally. We're in a rural hunting and fishing area so I expect the search won't be difficult.

i used to have a jerky gun but i gave up on it. unitasker. LOL i don't really care about the shape of jerky. i have a dehydrator and make jerky in that. just on parchment in a sheet and then scored into strips. easy peasy. less mess to clean up, etc. i'm sure you can make it in the oven just fine--that's what i used to use to dehydrate things before i got my dehydrator. you could probably just cut the tip off of a big ziplock bag to pipe out meat tubes (like icing)

That's exactly what I do, dehydrator, parchment paper, no jerky gun. It may not be pretty but it tastes the same and less clean up.

Jean

Thanks ladies. I've decided to try the rolling pin/oven method first to see if I like the end product and before investing in another kitchen gadget. Just need to wait for this unusual late summer heat wave to pass by before I add more heat to the house.