Description
A flavorful, protein-packed snack made with tender venison, sweet maple syrup, and brown sugar — perfect for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and healthy snacking.
Ingredients
2 lbs venison (sliced 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick)
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp liquid smoke
Optional Additions:
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp mustard powder
1/2 tsp coriander
Instructions
1. In a bowl, whisk maple syrup, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, red pepper flakes, liquid smoke, and optional ingredients until sugar dissolves.
2. Place sliced venison in a zip-top bag or container and pour marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate 12–24 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove venison from marinade, pat dry with paper towels.
4. For dehydrator: Place slices on trays, set to 160°F, and dry for 4–6 hours, flipping halfway.
5. For oven: Preheat to 170°F. Arrange on wire rack over baking sheet. Bake 4–6 hours with oven door ajar.
6. For smoker: Preheat to 160°F–180°F. Smoke 3–5 hours with desired wood chips.
7. Check doneness: Jerky should be firm but pliable.
8. Cool completely before storing in airtight container.
Notes
Trim all fat from venison before slicing to improve shelf life.
For easier slicing, partially freeze meat 30–60 mins.
Store at room temp up to 2 weeks, refrigerate up to 2 months, freeze up to 6 months.
Use oxygen absorbers in containers for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Category: Snack
- Method: Dehydrated
- Cuisine: Wild Game
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 pieces
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: venison jerky, brown sugar maple jerky, homemade jerky, wild game recipes