Beef jerky is the perfect high-protein snack, but many store-bought brands are loaded with sodium.
For those looking to reduce salt, you can easily make healthy salt-free beef jerky at home with just a few simple ingredients and steps.
Why Make Salt-Free Jerky?
Skipping the salt allows you to control and moderate sodium intake.
This makes jerky a more diet-friendly option for those with high blood pressure, kidney issues or other health concerns where salt is a factor.
Going salt-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor.
Tips for Salt-Free Jerky:
- Use flank steak or eye of round for lean cuts that dry well
- Trim off any visible fat before slicing
- Cut meat across the grain into very thin, uniform slices
- Use non-salty seasonings like garlic, pepper, paprika, onion, chili powder
- Dried herbs like oregano, basil, dill also add flavor
- Sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup or brown sugar balance flavor
- Make sure meat is very dry before removing from dehydrator
Salt-Free Jerky Marinade Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lean beef, sliced thinly
- 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tsp each garlic powder, onion powder
- 1⁄2 tsp paprika or cayenne (optional)
Instructions:
- Whisk all ingredients except beef to blend.
- Add beef slices and stir to coat thoroughly. Marinate 30 mins – 2 hours.
- Dehydrate at 155°F for 5-7 hours, until completely dried.
- Enjoy your homemade salt-free beef jerky! Store in airtight container up to 2 weeks.
With the right techniques and flavor combinations, you can absolutely make tasty and healthy no-salt-added jerky at home.
Be creative with herbs, spices and sweeteners tailored to your taste.