National Craft Jerky Day

A person in hipster attire, standing in a rustic outdoor setting, holding a bag of assorted handcrafted jerky.. — National craft jerky day illustration

Welcome to the wild world of National Craft Jerky Day! Get ready to sink your teeth into some savory goodness and embark on a jerky adventure like no other.

When is Craft Jerky Day?

It's national craft jerky day on the 27th November.

The Internet History of National Craft Jerky Day

Every November 27th, meat enthusiasts and snack connoisseurs come together to celebrate National Craft Jerky Day. This mouthwatering holiday pays tribute to the art and tradition of crafting delicious jerky.

The origins of this day can be traced back to the depths of the internet, where a group of jerky enthusiasts decided it was high time to honor their favorite snack. They embarked on a mission to create a day where everyone could indulge in the meaty goodness of jerky and celebrate the variety of flavors and textures it offers.

A Brief Guide to Craft Jerky

So what exactly is craft jerky? It's no ordinary gas station snack. Craft jerky is the result of careful preparation, marination, and slow drying or smoking of high-quality meat. This culinary creation is a work of art, with each batch offering a unique blend of flavors and spices.

Craft jerky comes in all shapes and sizes, from the classic beef to the adventurous bison, venison, and even tofu for our vegetarian friends. The process of making craft jerky involves slicing lean cuts of meat, seasoning them with a carefully curated blend of spices, and then dehydrating or smoking them to perfection.

Celebrating National Craft Jerky Day

There are countless ways to celebrate this flavorful holiday. Here are a few ideas to inspire your jerky-filled festivities:

Host a jerky tasting party: Gather your loved ones, grab an assortment of craft jerky, and let the flavor adventure begin! You can even turn it into a voting competition to crown the ultimate jerky champion.
Create your own jerky: Feeling crafty? Whip out your dehydrator, grab your favorite meat, and experiment with flavors and spices to create your very own signature jerky.
Join a jerky subscription club: Why limit your jerky joy to just one day? Treat yourself to a monthly jerky delivery and savor different flavors throughout the year.

Did You Know?

Did you know that jerky has a long and storied history? The word 'jerky' is derived from the Quechua word 'ch'arki,' meaning 'dried meat.' Indigenous people in present-day Peru first developed jerky as a way to preserve meat, allowing them to have a source of food during long journeys and harsh winters.

History behind the term 'Craft Jerky'

1940

The Birth of Jerky

In the 1940s, the term 'jerky' was born. Jerky is a method of preserving meat that has been used for centuries. Native Americans and early explorers would dry and smoke meat to increase its shelf life. The process involves slicing the meat into thin strips, marinating it in spices, and then drying it. The result is a flavorful and long-lasting snack.

1966

The Rise of Beef Jerky

Beef jerky gained popularity in the 1960s as an easily transportable snack for hunters, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It became a staple in military rations due to its high protein content and durability. The term 'jerky' became synonymous with dried and seasoned meat, predominantly made from beef.

2010

The Craft Jerky Movement Begins

Around 2010, a new trend emerged in the jerky scene – artisanal or craft jerky. Craft jerky refers to small-batch, handcrafted jerky made with high-quality ingredients and unique flavor profiles. Craft jerky companies prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on flavors, textures, and using premium cuts of meat. The movement gained momentum as consumers started seeking healthier, preservative-free alternatives to mass-produced jerky.

2015

Craft Jerky Goes Mainstream

By 2015, craft jerky had become more widely available, with numerous companies entering the market. The term 'craft jerky' gained recognition among food enthusiasts, and consumers began appreciating the artistry and attention to detail in these small-batch products. Craft jerky started to appear in specialty stores, farmers markets, and online retailers, catering to the growing demand for unique and flavorful snacks.

Present

Craft Jerky Today

Craft jerky continues to thrive today, with a diverse range of flavors and meats available. The popularity of craft jerky has contributed to the expansion of the jerky market as a whole. Consumers can now find jerky made from various meats, including beef, pork, turkey, chicken, and even exotic options like venison, elk, or bison. Whether you prefer classic flavors or adventurous combinations, craft jerky offers something for every palate.