Drying Cooked Meats

If you are drying meat for other purposes than jerky such as for stew, sandwich spreads, or stroganoff, the meat should be tender and choice. It must be cooked so that it will not be tough and chewy when reconstituted. Using the remainder of a dinner roast or left-over steak saves the step of precooking the meat. Dehydrate those leftovers for snacks, back-packing, and camping meals.

The shelf life of dried cooked meats is 2 to 3 weeks at room temperature. Store them in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain the best quality until ready to use for backpacking or camping. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 6 months in the freezer.

Drying Fish

Lean fish may be used for jerky. You can also dry fat fish, but it will not keep at room temperature more than a week. Fish jerky should contain about 15% moisture when it is completely dry. It will be pliable and tough. If there is any doubt about the dryness, store in the refrigerator or freezer to avoid the risk of spoilage.

Cooked fish may also be dried, although it has a different taste than fish jerky. It still makes a nice snack. Rehydrating cooked fish is not recom- mended because the resulting product isn’t very good.

Selection

Choose fresh fish to dry. If you catch it, clean it promptly and keep it on ice until you are ready to dehydrate it.

If you are purchasing fish, be sure that it is fresh and not previously frozen. Frozen fish can still be made into jerky, but be aware that the quality is inferior to fresh.

Preparation

Cut cold fish into strips 1⁄4 to 3⁄8 inch thick. Marinate in your own favorite marinade.

When using your own recipe, be sure to include at least 11⁄2 to 2 teaspoons salt per pound of fresh fish. Salt slows the growth of surface bacteria during the initial stages of drying. Marinate for at least 4 to 8 hours in the refrigera- tor so the fish will absorb the salt

and seasonings.

Drying

Dry fish jerky strips at 130° to 140°F (55° to 60°C) until they feel firm, dry, and tough but don’t crumble. There should be no moist spots.

Packaging and Storage

Follow guidelines for Packaging, page 11 and Storage, page 11. Store dried fish jerky in the freezer if it is not to be eaten within 2 to 3 weeks.

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Nesco Food Dehydrator manual Drying Cooked Meats
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Food Dehydrator specifications

The Nesco Food Dehydrator is a versatile kitchen appliance that enables home cooks and health enthusiasts to preserve food efficiently. With a reputation for reliability and quality, this dehydrator stands out in the market for its innovative technologies and user-friendly features.

One of the most notable features of the Nesco Food Dehydrator is its patented Converge-Flow technology. This unique drying system utilizes a top-down airflow, which ensures that hot air is evenly distributed throughout the dehydrator. This design prevents the need for rotating trays, resulting in consistent drying without the hassle of manually rearranging food items. This technology allows for higher efficiency, leading to better results in less time.

The dehydrator boasts adjustable temperature settings, allowing users to control the drying process based on the type of food being processed. Ranging from 95 degrees Fahrenheit to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, these settings cater to various foods, from herbs and fruits to meats and vegetables. This flexibility makes the Nesco Food Dehydrator suitable for a variety of preservation needs.

Another characteristic of the Nesco Food Dehydrator is its capacity. With multiple trays that can often be expanded, users can customize the amount of food they wish to dehydrate at once. Many models come with five to twelve trays, providing ample space for large batches of fruits, jerky, or granola. Additionally, the trays are typically made from food-grade plastic, ensuring that they are safe for food contact and easy to clean.

The Nesco Food Dehydrator also typically includes a clear lid, allowing users to monitor the drying process without disrupting airflow. This design advantage not only enhances convenience but also contributes to energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss.

In summary, the Nesco Food Dehydrator is an excellent choice for those looking to extend the shelf life of their food while maintaining essential nutrients. Its advanced drying technology, adjustable temperature settings, ample capacity, and practical design features make it an indispensable tool in any kitchen. Whether you are preparing healthy snacks or creating homemade jerky, the Nesco Food Dehydrator guarantees a reliable and efficient drying experience.
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