Reduced sodium jerky is a popular snack choice for people who are looking for a tasty and convenient way to satisfy their cravings for meat without compromising their health. This article will explore the benefits of reduced sodium jerky, including its nutritional benefits, preparation methods, and where to find the best deals.
What is Reduced Sodium Jerky?
Reduced sodium jerky is a type of beef jerky that has had its sodium content reduced by using alternative ingredients or reducing the amount of soy sauce used in its preparation. While traditional beef jerky is known for its high sodium content, reduced sodium jerky is designed to be a healthier option, making it a popular choice for individuals who are watching their sodium intake, following a keto diet, or who have dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Benefits
Reduced sodium jerky is a great option for people who are trying to maintain a healthy diet. Eating too much salt can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, among other health problems. By choosing reduced sodium jerky, consumers can enjoy the taste of beef jerky without consuming excessive amounts of sodium, helping to reduce their risk of these diseases.
In addition to its health benefits, reduced sodium jerky is also a good source of protein. It contains around 85mg of sodium per serving, which is significantly lower than traditional beef jerky, which typically contains around 140mg. This makes it a great option for people who are concerned about their sodium intake and looking for a high-protein snack.
Preparation Methods
Preparing reduced sodium jerky at home can be a simple and easy process. The key to successful homemade reduced sodium jerky is to use high-quality ingredients and to follow proper food safety practices.
To prepare homemade reduced sodium jerky, start by selecting a lean cut of beef that does not have a lot of visible fat. You can remove excess fat by slicing off the top and bottom of the beef, and then cutting the meat into long, thin slices. If you prefer, you can marinate the beef in your favorite low-sodium marinade for a short period of time, but be sure to store it in the refrigerator while it's marinating.
Once the meat is ready to cook, preheat your food dehydrator to 155 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the sliced meat on the dehydrator trays and allow the beef to dehydrate for at least four hours, or until the jerky has reached your desired consistency. Avoid opening the dehydrator doors before the four-hour minimum has passed, as this can let the heat escape and cause the temperature to drop too low. It's important to keep the heat steady at 155°F throughout the dehydrating process, and to check the progress of the jerky after 45 minutes. If the temperature drop too much, the cooked meat can spoil during the dehydration process and this can put you at risk of food poisoning.
After adequately heating or freezing the meat, you also want to make sure that the beef stays at a temperature between 145 and 155 degrees Fahrenheit the entire time you're dehydrating it. If the temperature drops too much, the cooked meat can spoil during the dehydration process and this can put you at risk of food poisoning too. Make sure your dehydrator can handle this level of heat, as lots of options on the market can't, according to the University of Wisconsin Extension.
Where to Find the Best Deals
Now that you know the benefits of reduced sodium jerky and how to prepare it yourself, you may be curious about where to find the best deals. Here are a few tips to help you find the best deals on reduced sodium jerky:
-
Compare prices online: Visiting online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, or Walmart can help you compare prices and find the best deals on reduced sodium jerky. Use the price comparison feature on these websites to see different brands and sizes of reduced sodium jerky side by side.
-
Sign up for newsletters: Many online retailers offer newsletters that notify you about new products and sales. Sign up for these newsletters to get alerts about new reductions in sodium jerky prices.
-
Check out thrift stores: Thrift stores and antique shops are sometimes able to offer reduced sodium jerky at a fraction of the cost of new products. Check the bulletin boards and case drawers at your local thrift store, and visit local antique shops to see if they have any reduced sodium jerky in stock.
-
Be mindful of sales: Keep an eye out for sales at local grocery stores, convenience stores, and health food stores. These sales can offer significant savings on reduced sodium jerky and help you save money.
##Reduced sodium jerky is a delicious and healthy snack option for busy lives. By choosing high-quality ingredients and following proper food safety practices, you can enjoy a tasty homemade meal that is also kind to your body. With our comprehensive guide to reduced sodium jerky, you now know the benefits, preparation methods, and where to find the best deals. Happy snacking!
_Measurements provided in the article are for reference only and are not intended as a recommendation for consumption. Always pay attention to serving sizes on packaging and follow relevant health and safety guidelines.
