The challenge to find healthy snacks that taste good is constant. Boiled eggs are boring and bland, trail mix gets old after a while, chips and other processed foods lack the nutrients for sustained energy - yet, there is one that shines above all of these: beef jerky.
Wait, is beef jerky good for you? Absolutely. A better question is, exactly why is beef jerky so good? We’re here to share 6 specific reasons you need this protein-packed snack in your arsenal:
- There are tons of great flavors to choose from, whether you prefer something simple and subtle or something outside of the box.
- The texture is truly one of a kind, with a delightful chewiness that makes you work for it.
- You can take it anywhere since it doesn’t need to be refrigerated.
- It’s packed with protein and other healthy nutrients.
- Learning how to make your own beef jerky is fun and easy.
- It’s not nearly as expensive as you might think.
Plus, you don’t have to look far for the best beef jerky brand. We here at Mahogany Smoked Meats have more than 100 years of experience slow-smoking beef jerky to perfection. Browse our beef jerky for sale and taste the difference a century of tradition can make today!
Why is Beef Jerky So Good?
So, why is beef jerky so good? From the health benefits of this nutritious snack to the one-of-a-kind taste and texture it’s known for, there are so many reasons to keep jerky in your regular rotation.
If you’re still on the fence, though, keep reading and give us the chance to convince you to order some today. Hear us out, and your mouth will be watering in just a few minutes!
Tons of Amazing Flavors
If you haven’t already tried beef jerky, you’re seriously missing out. So, what does beef jerky taste like? It’s hard to explain - it’s one of those things you really need to taste firsthand to appreciate to the fullest.
Really, though, it depends on the beef jerky marinade recipe used. Whether you’re craving something savory, spicy, sweet, or tangy, there’s a beef jerky variety to suit your taste.
Classic smoked jerky delivers a rich, meaty flavor enhanced by traditional spices. But you might try bolder options if you’re feeling adventurous. Teriyaki jerky balances savory soy sauce with a hint of sweetness, while jalapeño-flavored jerky is perfect if you appreciate a bit of heat.
Want something sweeter? Honey-glazed or maple-flavored jerky can satisfy that craving. Prefer something with a more complex, savory profile? Varieties marinated in black pepper, garlic, or even bourbon-infused glazes can elevate your snacking experience.
The point is, there are so many unique smoked beef jerky recipe options to choose from. This is not just the result of variations in marinades but also in preparation methods.
For example, we here at Mahogany Smoked Meats (as our name suggests) use mahogany lumber in a deep-pit smoking method. This creates a one-of-a-kind flavor you won’t find anywhere else, as most other brands use hickory or mesquite.
We know you came here to learn specifically about beef jerky benefits, but there are so many beef jerky alternatives worth exploring as well - from the best fish jerky to the best turkey jerky. You can also consider an elk jerky recipe or buffalo jerky recipe for something gamier!
Satisfying, Chewy Texture
So much emphasis is placed on the beef jerky taste, and for good reason. But flavor is just one piece of the puzzle. The texture is another reason why beef jerky is so good.
There’s something inherently satisfying about the firm, chewy consistency of high-quality jerky. While processed snacks disintegrate immediately, jerky makes you work for it - you get to take your time and savor each bite. This is part of what makes it such a fulfilling snack. It engages your senses and keeps you feeling satisfied longer than a quick, airy snack would.
The perfect beef jerky strikes a balance between being tender enough to bite into comfortably while still maintaining that signature chew. When made properly, it holds just the right amount of moisture so that it’s neither too dry nor too soft.
Easier said than done, of course - which is why you need to get your hands on the best beef jerky, right here at Mahogany Smoked Meats.
Shelf Stable On-the-Go Convenience
All good things come to an end, so does beef jerky go bad? Unfortunately, yes - but this speaks to the fact that it’s a natural whole food, unlike most processed snacks that don’t have an expiration date. The good news is it lasts far longer than you might think, too.
So how long does beef jerky last? If stored properly in airtight containers away from heat and sunlight, you can keep it fresh for a few weeks! Of course, you can freeze beef jerky to make it last longer if you’re buying in bulk.
That being said, the portability of jerky is yet another reason to love it. While other healthy snacks typically need to be refrigerated, you can bring beef jerky on a hike, keep it in your desk at work, in your golf bag - you name it!
This is why it’s a staple for those who are constantly on the go but don’t want to compromise on their health with low-quality snacks. It’s lightweight, doesn’t take up much space, and provides a hearty source of nutrition that’s easy to consume wherever you are.
Whether you’re scaling a mountain, driving cross-country, or just need a quick, protein-rich snack at the office, you can’t beat jerky! Speaking of protein…
Protein-Packed Nutrition
The beef jerky nutrition facts align with even the most health-conscious diets. There are not many calories in beef jerky considering how much protein is in beef jerky, meaning it’s very nutrient-dense.
A typical serving of jerky can provide anywhere from 10 to 15 grams of protein, depending on the cut and preparation. Meanwhile, you’re only getting 80 to 100 calories, a few grams of healthy fat, and zero carbs!
This supports muscle repair and growth, boosts energy, and keeps you full for longer - all without the added sugars and empty carbs found in many other snacks. It’s keto-friendly and meets the standards for diets like paleo, carnivore, and more. It’s also great for diabetics.
Be aware, though, that commercially produced jerkies can be loaded with artificial ingredients. These do not offer the same health benefits as artisan-crafted jerky in small batches. So, again - do your research. You can shop with confidence here at Mahogany Smoked Meats.
You Can Make it Yourself
Who doesn’t love a fun DIY project every once in a while? Whether you choose to learn how to make beef jerky in oven or how to make beef jerky in air fryer, you can easily create your own unique recipe from the comfort of your home!
You have complete control over the flavor, seasoning, and texture - and you can rest assured you’re using the best meat for beef jerky with this approach, maximizing the health benefits this snack has to offer.
Choose something lean like top round or sirloin and then marinate to your liking whether that means a classic smoky taste or something more exotic like a ginger-soy fusion.
Then, you can read up on the process of bringing your jerky to life in our blog. We have resources on how thick to cut jerky, the optimal temp to dehydrate jerky, how long to dehydrate jerky, how to smoke beef jerky, how long to marinate jerky, how is beef jerky made, and more.
Not only does this save money compared to store-bought varieties, but it’s a fulfilling experience and you’ll fall in love with the practice of getting better and better in every batch. That being said, jerky really isn’t all the expensive to make a part of your regular snacking arsenal, either!
It’s Not That Expensive, Either!
Many people ask, why is beef jerky so expensive? The truth is, it’s not! Sure it’s going to cost a bit more than a bag of chips or some other low-quality snack, but the simple fact is you get what you pay for.
Jerky offers much more value than the other options considering the nutritional value, the convenience, and the amazing taste and texture. Given how filling it is, a little goes a long way too. So, invest in your health and happiness - spoil yourself with the best beef jerky today!
See For Yourself Why Beef Jerky From Mahogany Smoked Meats is So Good Today!
We have talked about why beef jerky is so good, but there is a caveat - you need to get your hands on the BEST jerky to experience these benefits firsthand. Fortunately, you don’t need to look any further than Mahogany Smoked Meats.
Our journey began in the 1920s in Bishop, California, where traditional techniques and dedication to excellence laid the foundation for a legacy of exceptional smoked meats. Fast forward to today, and we’re still committed to creating delicious, healthy meat snacks!
Unlike mass-produced alternatives, we make jerky in small batches from only the highest quality cuts of beef so you can rest assured you’ll enjoy rich, mouthwatering flavors and a tender, satisfying texture. It’s good for you, too!
What truly sets our jerky apart is our signature smoking process. We exclusively use real mahogany wood in our deep log pit smoker, a time-honored technique that infuses each piece of jerky with unparalleled depth and natural smokiness.
You can explore all the different types of jerky beyond beef jerky, too - that includes bulk turkey jerky, elk jerky, buffalo jerky, wild boar jerky, fish jerky, and more.
Whether you’re seeking a protein-packed snack for on-the-go convenience or a gourmet treat to savor, our jerky delivers satisfaction in every bite. Taste the tradition and craftsmanship that have made Mahogany Smoked Meats a trusted name for generations!
Final Thoughts on Why Beef Jerky is So Good
So, why is beef jerky so good? You can see why it has a place in any snack pantry. It offers the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and convenience. Whether you love the classic taste or crave unique seasonings, beef jerky caters to all palates - without compromising on health!
Our blog has more resources on the basics of beef jerky like is beef jerky cooked, does beef jerky need to be refrigerated, is beef jerky gluten free, is beef jerky processed, is beef jerky raw, how to cure beef jerky, how to rehydrate beef jerky, beef jerky and cholesterol, and more.
But why not experience the benefits of beef jerky firsthand? The finest artisan-crafted jerky is just a few clicks away at Mahogany Smoked Meats. Discover the delicious, high-quality beef jerky that makes snacking unforgettable today!
