We are firmly set in the lull. It is finally the time of year when there is very little to do in the great outdoors. I can fish, but honestly-it's been too hot to fish. I have been eyeing the bow fishing equipment hanging in the garage-so there are possibilities on that front, but once again my brain protests with-"But it's hot". I have been avoiding heat and cleaning out our freezers lately. The extra meat that we have is being transformed into jerky. I purchased a jerky gun and have been going a bit crazy with it ever since. I have dehydrated using my old countertop dehydrator (I've had this thing around for about 20 years) and our Little Chief smoker.
The first batch was not adventurous, I used the store bought mix to make a slightly sweet spicy jerky. It turned out surprisingly similar to the jerky I bought last year from our processor that was made by Zick's. In my opinion, I just struck gold! If I can make my own- nom nom nom!!!!
The second batch I used some sausage seasoning with a heavy pepper base that ended up salty but quite similar to a Slim Jim taste, also a score! Next batch, I am still waiting for some inspiration. I'm thinking perhaps a teriyaki flavor would hit the spot.
