How to Make Delicious Duck Jerky at Home

Duck breast jerky is a delectable treat that combines rich flavors and a perfect balance of smokiness and spice. This gourmet jerky is made by marinating duck or goose breast in a tangy, savory mix before smoking it low and slow to perfection. Here’s a unique take on the recipe, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

• 4-5 lbs wild duck or goose breast
• 1 1/2 cups soy sauce
• 1 1/2 cups teriyaki sauce
• 2 tbsp Tabasco sauce
• 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 6 oz beer
• Red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions

1. Preparation: Trim any skin and excess fat from the duck breast. Place the breast in the freezer for about an hour to make slicing easier.

2. Marinade: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne, chili powder, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, water, and beer. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. Slicing: Slice the duck breast into 1/4-inch thick strips with a sharp knife.

4. Marinating: Submerge the duck strips in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

5. Draining: Remove the meat from the marinade and lay it on paper towels. Let it sit for 15 minutes to drain excess marinade.

6. Smoking Preparation: Preheat your smoker to 180°F with the lid closed for 15 minutes. This recipe uses pecan wood pellets for a rich, nutty flavor.

7. Seasoning: Sprinkle the meat strips with black pepper or red pepper flakes if you prefer extra spice.

8. Smoking: Arrange the meat strips in a single layer directly on the grill grates. Smoke at 180°F until the meat feels firm but still bends without snapping, checking every 30 minutes after 2 1/2 hours, up to 8 hours.

9. Cooling and Storing: Remove the jerky from the smoker and let it cool completely. Store in resealable bags or an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Tips for the Best Duck Breast Jerky

• Uniform Slices: Ensure even cooking by slicing the duck breast uniformly.
• Marinating Time: Allow the meat to marinate for the full 24 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
• Smoke Consistency: Maintain a consistent temperature in your smoker to ensure even drying of the jerky.

Conclusion

Duck breast jerky is a luxurious snack that combines the gamey richness of duck with a symphony of spices and smokiness. Perfect for outdoor adventures or as a gourmet treat, this jerky is sure to impress. Enjoy the robust flavors and the satisfaction of making your own jerky from scratch. Happy smoking!