The Best Beef Jerky Brands and Shops in Indiana

Nate's Meat Company

One of the most popular beef jerky brands in Indiana is Nate's Meat Company. Based in Syracuse, Nate's Meat has been making high-quality jerky for over 15 years. They offer a wide selection of flavors including original, teriyaki, hot, honey bourbon, and more. All of their jerky is made from 100% American beef and uses no artificial flavors or preservatives. It's lightly seasoned so you can really taste the flavor of the quality beef. Nate's Meat jerky can be found in many grocery stores and gas stations across Northern Indiana.

In addition to their retail jerky, Nate's Meat also offers custom jerky in a variety of flavors. Their jerky is handmade in small batches and they even offer specialty flavors like pizza jerky, cheesesteak jerky, and maple bacon jerky. Around the holidays they sell gift boxes and gift cards, making their jerky a perfect Indiana-made gift. Be sure to follow them on social media to find out where their jerky stand will be located each weekend.

Knead Beef Jerky

For a gourmet jerky experience, check out Knead Beef Jerky based in Bloomington. This woman-owned business makes small-batch jerky using premium cuts of beef. Their jerky is crafted to be tender and full of flavor. Some standout flavors include bourbon maple, coconut curry, smoked ghost pepper, and vanilla espresso. They also offer "craft your own" jerky packs where you can customize the flavors.

In addition to being delicious, Knead Beef Jerky is also all-natural and gluten-free. The jerky is made without any artificial ingredients, MSG, or nitrites. It's also Whole30 approved if you're on a Paleo or elimination diet. You can find Knead Beef Jerky online as well as in specialty stores throughout central and southern Indiana.

JT's Beef Jerky

JT's Beef Jerky got its start at the Indianapolis City Market over a decade ago. After gaining a loyal following at the market, JT's opened a storefront in Greenwood where they produce artisan beef jerky and meat snacks. Some customer favorites include the cracked pepper jerky, wicked hot jerky, and maple bacon jerky.

In addition to their store, you can now find JT's Beef Jerky at locations across Indianapolis. Their products are also available online and through wholesale. JT's uses only American beef flank steak for their jerky which gives it a rich, smoky flavor. It's tender yet still has that classic chewy jerky texture. ‍

McClure's Old Time Jerky

Based in Evansville, McClure's Old Time Jerky has been crafting specialty meats since 1996. They started out selling venison jerky at farmers' markets and craft shows. Today McClure's makes high-quality beef, turkey, venison and pork jerkies in a SQF Level 3 Certified facility. Their jerky is sold online, in retail locations across 44 states, and internationally.

McClure's specializes in whole-muscle jerky cuts for maximum tenderness and flavor. Popular beef jerky flavors include original, teriyaki, peppered, habanero, and maple brown sugar. They also offer grass-fed beef jerky for an even richer tasting jerky. McClure's Old Time Jerky uses no MSG, nitrates, or artificial preservatives to create the very best artisan jerkies.

Von Jakob Vineyard Jerky

For a local jerky treat, check out Von Jakob Vineyard's line of gourmet jerkies. This family-run vineyard and winery in Southern Indiana crafts artisan beef jerky from their own grass-fed cattle. The jerky comes in original and cracked pepper flavors made with their humanely raised beef.

In addition to jerky, you can also get various Von Jakob Vineyard wines and craft beers to pair with your jerky. The winery offers tastings, tours and a full restaurant featuring their estate wines. It's a great place to spend an afternoon sampling wines, beers and jerkies at their beautiful vineyard.

OakMan Foods

OakMan Foods produces handcrafted beef jerky from locally raised cattle. Based in Garrett, Indiana, OakMan Foods' jerkies feature innovative flavors like Dr. Pepper, mango habanero, and their signature blackstrap molasses recipe.

Their specialty is taking classic flavors like root beer and putting an unexpected twist on them for jerky. In addition to online sales, you can find OakMan Foods jerkies at farmer's markets and specialty shops throughout Northern Indiana. It's a small-batch product that sells out quickly!

Severin Beef Jerky

Operating since 1955, Severin Beef Jerky is an Indiana tradition. They still use the original family recipe to make their classic jerkies today. Severin jerky comes in a variety of flavors like teriyaki, peppered, hot and honey glazed. It has a rich, smoky flavor that keeps customers coming back year after year. Severin Beef Jerky is sold in grocery stores throughout the state.

In addition to their retail jerky, you can also order custom jerky direct through their website. Options include choosing your own flavors and cuts of meat. Severin's will even ship jerky care packages nationwide, making it a great Indiana food gift.‍

What Makes Indiana Beef Jerky Special

From small-town mom and pop shops to nationally distributed brands, Indiana offers a huge variety of delicious beef jerky. Here are some things that make Indiana beef jerky so special:

• High-quality beef - With its long cattle ranching history, Indiana jerkies are made with exceptional cuts of midwestern beef.
• Small-batch production - Many Indiana jerkies are made in small batches using artisanal techniques.
• Innovative flavors - Homegrown brands create unique flavor combinations you won't find anywhere else.
• Minimal processing - Most Indiana jerkies use natural ingredients with no artificial additives.
• Direct sales - Jerky makers often sell direct to consumers at markets and online.
• Local flavor - Indiana jerkies embody hometown pride and make great foodie souvenirs.

Next time you're in the Hoosier state, be sure to pick up some original Indiana beef jerky to enjoy or gift to friends and family. With countless options across the state, you're sure to find a new favorite!

Where to Buy Indiana Beef Jerky

Here are some of the best places to find high-quality Indiana beef jerky:

• Direct from company websites - Many smaller brands sell jerky online
• Specialty jerky stores - Jerky shops often carry local products
• Farmers markets - Look for jerky vendors at local markets
• Butcher shops and meat markets - May offer house-made jerky
• Grocery stores - Larger Indiana brands are found in big grocery chains
• Gas stations and convenience stores - Grab jerky on the go here
• Gift shops - Find jerky as a unique edible Hoosier souvenir
• Festivals and fairs - Jerky makers often have booths at local events

Keep an eye out wherever you shop as more and more small batch beef jerky makers are popping up across the state. And be sure to check labels for the "Made in Indiana" designation to support homegrown businesses.

How to Make Your Own Indiana-Style Beef Jerky

Want to recreate the Indiana beef jerky experience at home? Here are some tips for making tasty homemade beef jerky just like the Hoosier State's best brands:

Ingredients

• Lean beef such as eye of round or flank steak
• Jerky seasoning or marinade
• Curing salt
• Brown sugar
• Soy sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper

Steps

1. Slice beef into long, thin strips and pat dry
2. Mix together seasoning ingredients to taste
3. Toss beef strips in marinade, coating completely
4. Refrigerate 1-2 days to let beef marinate
5. Spread strips flat on dehydrator racks
6. Dehydrate 4-7 hours at 155°F until dried but pliable
7. Let cool completely before sealing in airtight bags or jars
8. Enjoy your homemade Hoosier-style beef jerky!

Experiment with flavors like maple syrup, hot sauce, liquid smoke, and citrus juice to put your own spin on traditional Indiana beef jerky. The possibilities are endless for making your own signature jerky recipe.‍

Beef Jerky Safety Tips

When cooking with raw meat, there are some safety guidelines to follow:

• Always wash hands and prep surfaces before and after handling raw beef.
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat to avoid cross-contamination.
• Defrost frozen beef in the refrigerator overnight before marinating.
• Marinate beef in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
• Heat meat to 160°F before dehydrating to kill any bacteria.
• Dehydrate beef jerky on the proper setting according to your appliance's instructions.
• Test finished jerky for dryness and doneness before storing.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 3 months for best quality and safety.

Following basic food handling guidelines will ensure your homemade jerky is safe to enjoy anytime. And never leave beef strips sitting out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best cut of beef for making jerky?

Flank steak and eye of round are ideal cuts to use for jerky because they are lean yet flavorful. Make sure to slice across the grain for the most tender texture.

How long does homemade beef jerky last?

Properly dried and stored beef jerky will keep 2 weeks in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer before quality declines.

Why does my beef jerky taste salty?

Too much sodium from soy sauce, salt or other seasonings can make jerky taste overly salty. Use reduced sodium ingredients and adjust to taste.

Can you make beef jerky without a dehydrator?

While a dehydrator makes the best jerky, you can also use your oven on the lowest temp setting with the door propped open to dehydrate.

What's the difference between jerky and biltong?

Jerky is normally made with lean meat that's been heavily seasoned or marinated. Biltong uses whole muscle meat lightly flavored with salt, pepper and vinegar.

Satisfy Your Beef Jerky Cravings in Indiana

With its strong ranching heritage and tradition of specialty meats, it's no wonder Indiana produces top-notch beef jerky. From original family recipes to inventive new flavors, you'll find jerkies to suit every palate in the Hoosier state. The next time you need a protein-packed snack or a savory food gift, seek out a bag of the best beef jerky that Indiana has to offer.

FAQs

Where can I find Nate's Meat Company beef jerky?

Nate's Meat Company is based in Syracuse, Indiana. Their jerky can be found in many grocery stores and gas stations across Northern Indiana. You can also buy it direct from their website or visit one of their jerky stand locations on weekends.

What is the most popular McClure's jerky flavor?

McClure's original recipe beef jerky is one of their most popular flavors. It features their signature blend of spices that perfectly balances smoky, sweet, and savory notes. Other customer favorites include teriyaki, brown sugar maple, and habanero flavored jerkies.

Does Knead Beef Jerky offer gift boxes?

Yes, Knead Beef Jerky has pre-made gift boxes as well as custom jerky gift sets. Their boxes include jerky sampler packs along with Knead Beef Jerky merchandise like hats, stickers, and shirts. It makes a great Indiana-themed gift.