How to Make Mushroom Jerky | Recipes & More!

If you're looking for a delicious and healthy snack alternative, mushroom jerky is a fantastic choice. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it's also easy to make at home. In this blog, we'll explore how to make mushroom jerky, share some of the best mushroom jerky recipes, and explain what makes mushroom jerky so special. From oyster to shiitake to maitake mushrooms, there's a jerky recipe here for everyone. Let's dive in!

What is Mushroom Jerky?

Mushroom jerky is a plant-based snack made by dehydrating seasoned mushrooms. It's a savory and chewy alternative to traditional meat jerky, perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to cut down on meat consumption. Mushroom jerky is rich in umami flavor, thanks to the natural properties of mushrooms, and can be made with various types of mushrooms such as oyster, shiitake, maitake, and even pheasant back mushrooms.

Health Benefits of Mushroom Jerky

Mushrooms are a nutritional powerhouse. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. Mushroom jerky is a great source of antioxidants, B vitamins, and vitamin D, making it a healthy snack option that supports overall well-being.

How to Make Mushroom Jerky

If you are interested in a base recipe for whatever edible mushrooms you would like to experiment with we've got you covered! If you have a specific type of mushroom you are interested in making jerky with, check out our mushroom specific recipes below for more options.

Basic Ingredients

• Fresh mushrooms (oyster, shiitake, maitake, or pheasant back)
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Olive oil
• Maple syrup or honey
• Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and slice them into 1/4-inch thick strips. For larger mushrooms like shiitake or maitake, you may need to remove the stems.

2. Marinate: In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the mushroom slices and toss to coat evenly. Let the mushrooms marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more intense flavor.

3. Dehydrate:

   • Oven Method: Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature setting (usually around 170°F). Arrange the marinated mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the mushrooms are dry and chewy.
   • Dehydrator Method: Place the marinated mushrooms on the dehydrator trays. Set the dehydrator to 135°F and dry for 4-6 hours, or until the mushrooms reach the desired texture.
   • Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 200°F. Place the mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 1-2 hours, checking and shaking the basket every 30 minutes until the mushrooms are dry and chewy.

Mushroom Jerky Recipes

Oyster Mushroom Jerky Recipe

Oyster mushrooms are perfect for jerky due to their meaty texture and mild flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups oyster mushrooms
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions: Follow the basic instructions above for preparing, marinating, and dehydrating the mushrooms.

Shiitake Mushroom Jerky Recipe

Shiitake mushrooms have a robust flavor that makes a rich and savory jerky.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shiitake mushrooms
• 1/4 cup tamari
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions: Follow the basic instructions above for preparing, marinating, and dehydrating the mushrooms.

Maitake Mushroom Jerky Recipe

Maitake mushrooms, also known as "hen of the woods," have a unique texture and flavor perfect for jerky.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups maitake mushrooms
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions: Follow the basic instructions above for preparing, marinating, and dehydrating the mushrooms.

Pheasant Back Mushroom Jerky Recipe

Pheasant back mushrooms have a slightly nutty flavor that adds a unique twist to jerky.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pheasant back mushrooms
• 1/4 cup tamari
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions: Follow the basic instructions above for preparing, marinating, and dehydrating the mushrooms.

Tips for the Best Mushroom Jerky

1. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences. You can add chili flakes for a spicy kick or liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor.
2. Texture: The thickness of your mushroom slices will affect the final texture. Thinner slices will be crispier, while thicker slices will be chewier.
3. Storage: Store your homemade mushroom jerky in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should last for up to two weeks.

Mushroom Jerky Shipped to Your Doorstep

Making your own mushroom jerky is a fun and rewarding process. Whether you prefer oyster mushroom jerky, shiitake mushroom jerky, or any other variety, there's a recipe here for you. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful snack anytime you need a boost of energy. Happy jerky making!

If you aren't in the jerky making mood or want to try out the best mushroom jerky first to get a feel for it — you can visit us and use the code JUNE24BLOG to enjoy 10% off your order. With our nationwide discreet shipping you can get mushroom jerky shipped right to your house with no extra stress. If you have any questions on how do you make mushroom jerky feel free to message us on our chat bot at any time of the day. Happy snacking!

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