From Old to New, Philadelphia has several jerky companies putting out new jerky products!

Jerky has been around for centuries, providing a portable and high-protein snack for travelers and hunters alike. Today, jerky has evolved into a diverse world of flavors, textures, and ingredients, with different companies taking unique approaches to the classic snack. Let’s explore some of the different types of jerky available and highlight three Philadelphia-based companies: Side Project Jerky, SOB Bacon, and PhillyJerk! We’ll also discuss the joy of trying different foods and finding new approaches to making jerky.

Types of Jerky

Jerky can be made from a variety of meats, including beef, turkey, pork, and even exotic meats like alligator and bison. It can also be made with different flavorings and textures, ranging from sweet and smoky to spicy and chewy. Here are a few different types of jerky to explore:

• Traditional Jerky: Made with beef and often flavored with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper, traditional jerky has a slightly sweet and smoky flavor.
• Turkey Jerky: Turkey jerky is a leaner alternative to beef jerky, with a slightly sweeter and milder flavor.
• Exotic Jerky: Made with meats like alligator, bison, and elk, exotic jerky offers a unique taste and texture experience.
• Soft Jerky: This type of jerky is often marinated longer and cooked at a lower temperature, resulting in a softer and chewier texture.

Philadelphia’s Different Approaches to Jerky

Side Project Jerky

Side Project Jerky takes a craft approach to making jerky, using only all-natural and locally sourced ingredients. They offer a range of flavors, including classic, black pepper, and honey chipotle. They also experiment with unique flavors like Thai chili and maple bourbon.

SOB Bacon

SOB Bacon takes a different approach to jerky, incorporating their signature bacon into the mix. They use pasture-raised pork belly and smoke it low and slow to create a smoky and savory flavor. Their jerky comes in flavors like hickory smoked, bourbon maple, and sriracha.

PhillyJerk!

PhillyJerk! focuses on Caribbean-inspired flavors, with their jerky featuring bold spices like allspice, ginger, and thyme. They use high-quality beef and turkey and offer flavors like Jamaican jerk, curry, and Caribbean spice.

The Joy of Trying Different Foods

Exploring different types of jerky and different approaches to making it can be a fun and exciting experience. Trying new flavors and textures can expand your palate and introduce you to new culinary traditions. It can also inspire you to experiment with your own jerky-making at home, using your favorite ingredients and flavors.

Jerky is a versatile and delicious snack that offers a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you prefer classic beef jerky, unique flavors like maple bourbon, or incorporating bacon into the mix, there is a type of jerky out there for everyone. Philadelphia-based companies like Side Project Jerky, SOB Bacon, and PhillyJerk! offer different approaches to jerky making, inspiring us to try new flavors and experiment with our own jerky creations.