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Simple Teriyaki Turkey Jerky for Lean Protein Snacking

A close-up stack of glistening, dark brown Teriyaki turkey jerky pieces sprinkled with spices on a light plate.

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Make your own lean protein turkey jerky with a sweet and savory teriyaki flavor. This recipe is perfect for healthy snacks on your next outdoor activity.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs turkey breast, sliced thinly against the grain
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until the sugar dissolves. This is your teriyaki marinade.
  2. Place the thinly sliced turkey into a large, resealable plastic bag or a non-reactive container.
  3. Pour the teriyaki marinade over the turkey slices, making sure all pieces are coated.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the turkey to absorb the flavor.
  5. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, typically between 160°F and 175°F (71°C and 80°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or cooling racks set over the sheets.
  6. Remove the turkey from the marinade and pat the slices dry with paper towels. Excess moisture slows drying time.
  7. Arrange the turkey slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they do not overlap.
  8. Bake for 3 to 5 hours, checking every hour. The time depends on your oven’s actual temperature and the thickness of your slices.
  9. The jerky is done when it is dry, firm, and bends without breaking. If it snaps easily, it is overcooked.
  10. Turn off the oven and prop the door open slightly. Let the jerky cool completely inside the oven for about 30 minutes to finish drying.
  11. Store your homemade jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerate for longer storage.

Notes

  • For a chewier texture, slice the turkey when it is partially frozen.
  • If you have a dehydrator, use it instead of the oven for more consistent results.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content in your healthy snacks.

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