Steps to Making Jerky in Ark: Survival Evolved

Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious snack to take with you while you explore the vast and dangerous world of Ark: Survival Evolved? Look no further than homemade jerky! Jerky is a great source of protein and energy, and can easily be made from the meat of the dinosaurs and other creatures you defeat on your adventures.

Making jerky may seem intimidating at first, but with a few simple steps, you can have a tasty snack that will last for days. In this article, we’ll go over the basics of how to make jerky in Ark: Survival Evolved, so you can keep your hunger at bay while you build your base and tame your next mount. So grab your favorite flavorings and let’s get started!

Ark: How to Make Jerky

Jerky is a long-lasting, protein-packed snack that’s easy to take along on your next adventure. If you’re a fan of the popular game Ark, you know that your survival depends on having enough resources to last you through the tough times. One of the most valuable resources is food, and jerky is an excellent way to preserve meat so it can last for weeks or even months. Making jerky in Ark is easier than you might think, so let’s dive in!

1. Select the Right Meat
When making jerky, the type of meat you choose is crucial. The most common types of meat used for jerky are beef, turkey, and deer. When choosing meat, it’s important to select lean cuts like flank steak or round roast. Avoid meats with lots of fat, as this can cause the jerky to spoil.

2. Cut the Meat
After selecting your meat, it’s time to cut it into thin, even slices. To make the process easier, freeze the meat for a few hours so it’s more firm and easier to slice. Use a sharp knife to cut the meat against the grain, which will help make it tender.

3. Marinate the Meat
Marinating the meat is essential to adding flavor and tenderizing it. There are countless marinade recipes available, but the most common ingredients include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix the marinade ingredients together and then coat the meat in the mixture.

4. Dehydrate the Meat
Once marinated, it’s time to start the dehydration process. In Ark, you’ll need to use a preserving bin to make jerky. Place the marinated meat in the bin and turn it on. After a few hours, the meat will be fully dehydrated and ready to eat.

5. Store the Jerky
After the jerky is fully dehydrated, it’s important to store it properly. Place the jerky in an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. Jerky can last for several weeks or even months if stored properly.

6. Use Salt as a Preservative
If you’re planning on storing jerky for a long period of time, consider using salt as a preservative. Add a small amount of salt to the marinade or sprinkle salt on the meat before dehydrating it. Be sure not to add too much salt, as this can make the jerky too salty.

7. Experiment with Flavors
Jerky is a blank canvas for flavor, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different marinades and spices. Try adding some heat with cayenne or chili powder, or add some sweetness with honey or brown sugar.

8. Make Large Batches
Making jerky takes time and effort, so it’s best to make a large batch at once. Not only will you save time, but you’ll have plenty of jerky to last you through your next adventure.

9. Use Different Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a preserving bin in Ark, don’t worry. You can still make delicious jerky using a dehydrator or even your oven. Simply follow the same steps and adjust the cooking times accordingly.

10. Enjoy your Jerky!
Now that you know how to make jerky in Ark, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Take your jerky on your next adventure or enjoy it as a snack at home. With its long shelf life and protein-packed goodness, jerky is a snack you won’t regret making.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jerky

Making jerky requires only a few key ingredients that can be easily found at your local grocery store or online. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make your own homemade jerky.

Meat

The most important and essential ingredient of jerky is meat, which forms the foundation of this savory snack. You can use any type of meat to make jerky, such as beef, deer, turkey, and pork. You must choose a lean cut of meat as fat causes the jerky to spoil quickly and can affect the taste and texture.

Seasoning

The seasoning is vital in adding flavor to the meat and making the jerky taste delicious. Seasoning can be either dry rub or marinade; both are used, depending on the type of meat. You can use seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder, to name a few.

Sodium Nitrate (Optional)

Sodium nitrate is an optional ingredient that can be used to extend the shelf life of jerky. It acts as a preservative, preventing the growth of bacteria and other organisms that can cause the meat to spoil. However, it’s not a must-use ingredient and can be eliminated if you prefer.

Sugar

Sugar, whether brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey, helps to balance out the saltiness of jerky and also helps to add flavor and caramelization to the meat when cooked. You can choose the type of sugar according to your personal preference, but it’s recommended to use a small amount.

Liquid Smoke

Liquid smoke is an excellent ingredient to use when making jerky as it provides a smoky flavor without the use of a smoker. It is available in almost every grocery store and can be added to the marinade or dry rub.

Soy Sauce or Worcestershire Sauce

Both soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce are popular in marinades for jerky as they add to the savory flavor of the meat. Using these sauces adds an umami flavor to the marinade and brings a depth of flavor to the meat.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is used to add tartness and tanginess to the marinade and helps to tenderize the meat. Additionally, it can decrease the pH level of the meat, which slows down the growth of bacteria.

Pineapple Juice

Pineapple juice is used for its natural enzyme content, which helps to tenderize the meat and break down its tough fibers. Including pineapple juice in your marinade will leave your meat more flavorful and much softer.

Jerky Gun

A jerky gun will help you create uniform and consistently sized jerky strips with ease. It’s a fantastic tool for those who want to make a lot of jerky without wasting much effort.

Dehydrator

A dehydrator is a must-have tool for making jerky as it allows you to control the temperature at which the meat is dried, ensuring that it’s safe to eat. A dehydrator can be an expensive investment, but it’s worth it, especially if you’re determined to make a lot of jerky regularly.

Now that you know the essential ingredients you’ll need to make jerky, you’re well on your way to creating your first batch. With proper preparation and careful attention to detail, your homemade jerky will rival any store-bought variety in flavor and quality.

Choosing the Right Meat

When it comes to making jerky, the type of meat you use is crucial to the overall taste and texture. Here are some popular options for making Ark jerky:

Beef

Beef is the most commonly used meat when it comes to making jerky. It is important to choose a good cut of meat that is lean, such as flank steak or sirloin. It is also important to remove any visible fat before slicing the meat for jerky.

Elk

Elk is a lean, flavorful meat that makes for great jerky. It has a slightly sweet taste and is a good option for anyone looking for a unique twist on traditional beef jerky.

Wild Boar

Wild boar is a gamey meat with a rich flavor that can make for delicious jerky. It is important to choose a lean cut of meat and to remove any excess fat prior to slicing.

Bison

Bison is a lean, tender meat that makes for excellent jerky. It has a slightly sweeter taste than beef and is a great alternative for those looking for a healthier option.

Turkey

Turkey is a lean, low-fat option for making jerky. It has a mild flavor that can be easily enhanced with spices and seasonings.

No matter which meat you choose, it is important to choose a high-quality, fresh cut that is free of any preservatives or additives. Once you have your meat, it is time to start preparing it for jerky.

Make sure to slice the meat against the grain for the best texture and to remove any visible fat to prevent spoilage. Now that you have the perfect meat, it’s time to start the marinating process.

That’s Some Delicious Jerky!

I hope this guide has been helpful in showing you how to make your own jerky in an ARK survival situation. With some patience and attention to detail, you too can create some mouth-watering jerky that will keep you fueled for your adventures. Remember to thank the animals that gave their lives to provide for you, as well as nature herself for providing the resources. Thank you for reading, and don’t forget to check back for more survival tips and tricks in the future. Happy snacking!