Description
This Homestyle Ground Turkey Jerky recipe transforms lean ground turkey into a flavorful, protein-packed snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. Combining wholesome ingredients like finely ground pecans and applesauce with herbs and soy sauce, this oven-baked jerky delivers a tender, savory bite with a delightful texture that’s easy to prepare and healthier than traditional jerky.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Binder
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (Mott’s preferred)
Seasonings
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (Kikkoman preferred)
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp sage
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Nuts
- 1 1/4 cups pecans, finely ground in a food processor until meal-like
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 175°F (80°C) or the lowest temperature possible for drying meat to ensure slow baking and proper dehydration.
- Prepare the Pecan Meal: Place the pecans in a food processor and pulse until they reach a meal-like texture, which will help bind and add flavor to the turkey mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the ground turkey, finely ground pecans, soy sauce, applesauce, thyme, sage, pepper, and garlic powder until well incorporated and evenly seasoned.
- Form the Jerky Sheets: On a parchment-lined baking sheet, spread the turkey mixture thinly and evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness to ensure consistent drying and texture throughout.
- Bake the Jerky: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake slow and low for about 6 hours and 20 minutes, or until the jerky feels dry to the touch and slightly firm but still pliable, indicating it is fully dehydrated but not overcooked.
- Cool and Store: Remove the jerky from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break or cut it into strips or bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Notes
- Use 93% lean ground turkey for optimal texture and moisture balance.
- Grinding pecans finely is crucial for binding and adding a subtle nutty flavor.
- Low and slow cooking is key to properly dehydrating the turkey without cooking it too quickly.
- If your oven’s lowest temp is higher than 175°F, prop the door open slightly to reduce temperature and allow moisture to escape.
- This jerky is a high-protein, low-fat snack option ideal for those watching calories or fat intake.
- Use unsweetened applesauce to avoid adding extra sugars to the recipe.
