How Beef Jerky Is Made: From Fresh Beef to Bold Flavor

Beef jerky has been a favorite snack for generations, but many people don’t realize how much care goes into making high-quality jerky. At Bad River Jerky, every batch is made with attention to detail, from the first cut of beef to the final packaged bag.

The process starts with selecting quality beef. The meat is carefully sliced into strips that are the perfect thickness for drying. Getting the cut right is important because it helps create the ideal jerky texture that’s tender but still has a satisfying chew.

Once the beef is sliced, it’s seasoned with flavorful spices and marinades. Each flavor has its own unique blend, giving every variety of jerky its signature taste. Whether it’s a classic original flavor or something with a little more heat, the seasoning step is where the flavor really begins to develop.

After seasoning, the jerky is carefully arranged on racks and placed into the drying process. Slow drying allows the meat to develop its rich taste while removing moisture to create the shelf-stable snack we all know and love.

Once the jerky has finished drying, it’s inspected, weighed, and packaged so it’s ready to enjoy. The result is a high-protein snack that’s perfect for road trips, outdoor adventures, or just a quick bite during a busy day.

At Bad River Jerky, we make our jerky in small batches right here in South Dakota. Our goal is to deliver bold flavor and quality you can taste in every bite.

If you’re looking for a delicious, protein-packed snack, explore our flavors and discover why so many people love small-batch beef jerky.