Welcome to a world where flavours collide with classic recipes to create culinary magic. Our beloved beef jerky isn’t just a snack for the trails—it’s a versatile ingredient that brings a smoky depth to every dish it graces.
In this post, we’re excited to share three innovative ways to incorporate the distinctive taste of beef jerky into your cooking repertoire. From a hearty pasta with a smoky twist to a trail mix that packs a protein punch and a cheese dip that will be the star of any party, these recipes are designed to impress and satisfy your cravings. So, grab your apron, and let’s transform the way you think about and use beef jerky in the kitchen!
1. Beef Jerky Carbonara: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Pasta
Ingredients:
– 400g spaghetti or fettuccine
– 2 large eggs plus 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
– 150g Nive Beef Jerky, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, beat the eggs and yolks in a mixing bowl. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped beef jerky until it starts to crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine with the beef jerky.
5. Remove the pan from heat and quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing rapidly to combine. The residual heat will cook the eggs but keep the pan off the burner to prevent scrambling.
6. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Season with freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley.
2. Beef Jerky Trail Mix: The Ultimate Snack Blend
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Nive Beef Jerky, torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup almonds, roasted
– 1 cup cashews, roasted
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds, roasted
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, roasted
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef jerky, almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Toss them together.
2. Gently stir in the dried cranberries and dark chocolate chips, if using, until evenly distributed.
3. Store the trail mix in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
4. Enjoy as a hearty snack on hikes, during work breaks, or whenever you need a quick energy boost.
3. Jerky-Infused Cheese Dip: A Bold Party Favourite
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Nive Beef Jerky, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup cream cheese
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sliced jalapeños or hot sauce (optional, for an extra kick)
– Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped beef jerky and cook for about 2 minutes until it releases its flavour.
2. Sprinkle flour over the jerky and butter, stirring until the flour has absorbed the butter and cooked for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture begins to thicken.
4. Lower the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce, if desired.
6. Once the cheese dip is smooth and bubbling, remove from heat.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh chives, alongside tortilla chips, crusty bread, or vegetable sticks.
These recipes are sure to offer a unique and delicious experience for fans of Nive Beef Jerky, adding a creative culinary twist to their favourite snack.
