Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your snacking experience forever! This isn't just another jerky recipe – it's a game-changing fusion of Southern charm and smoky perfection. Imagine tender pork strips infused with the sweet, nostalgic flavor of classic sweet tea, elevated with a robust blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a jerky enthusiast, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a protein-packed snack that breaks all the flavor rules, this Smoked Sweet Tea Pork Jerky is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork loin, sliced thin
- 1 cup brewed sweet tea
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork loin. Slice the pork loin into thin strips, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. This will help the jerky dry evenly and become tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brewed sweet tea, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are fully blended.
- Add the sliced pork loin to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Once the marinating time is complete, preheat your smoker to 180°F (82°C). If you do not have a smoker, you can use a dehydrator or an oven set to the lowest temperature.
- Remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a good texture.
- If using a smoker, arrange the pork strips on the smoker racks in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. If using a dehydrator or oven, place the strips on the trays or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Smoke the pork for about 6 hours, or until the jerky is dry and firm but still slightly pliable. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- Once done, remove the jerky from the smoker or dehydrator and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Store the smoked sweet tea pork jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. It can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
- Enjoy your homemade smoked sweet tea pork jerky as a delicious snack or protein-packed treat!
Tips
- Meat Preparation is Key: Always slice your pork loin when it's slightly frozen to achieve those perfectly thin, uniform strips. This ensures even drying and consistent texture.
- Marinade Magic: Don't rush the marinating process! Letting the meat sit overnight allows the sweet tea and spices to deeply penetrate and tenderize the pork.
- Moisture Control: Pat the meat completely dry before smoking to prevent soggy jerky and ensure that perfect chewy texture.
- Temperature Matters: Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure your jerky reaches the safe internal temperature of 160°F.
- Storage Secrets: For maximum freshness, store your jerky in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. Pro tip: Add a small food-grade silica gel packet to absorb any excess moisture.
- Experiment with Wood Chips: Try different wood chips like hickory or apple to add subtle smoky variations to your jerky's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 294kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
