Chicken of the Woods Jerky Recipe
Love hiking snacks? Try the Chicken of the Woods Jerky recipe. This wild mushroom turns into chewy savory jerky. No meat needed.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh Chicken of the Woods mushrooms
- 1/2 cup soy sauce low-sodium
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes optional
- 2 tbsp liquid smoke optional
Instructions
Clean the Mushrooms
- Cut off tough base. Brush off dirt gently. Slice tender parts 1/4 inch thick. Work fast.
Blanch the Slices
- Boil water in pot. Add mushroom slices. Cook 5 minutes. Drain well. Cool quickly.
Mix the Marinade
- Whisk soy sauce, Worcestershire, maple syrup, garlic, paprika, onion powder, pepper, chili flakes. Add liquid smoke if using.
Marinate Mushrooms
- Place blanched slices in marinade. Toss to coat. Cover bowl. Refrigerate 12-24 hours.
Prep for Drying
- Drain excess marinade. Pat slices dry with paper towels. Arrange on dehydrator trays.
Dehydrate Low and Slow
- Set dehydrator to 135°F. Dry 10-12 hours. Flip halfway. Check for leathery texture.
Cool and Store
- Remove from trays. Cool completely. Store in airtight bags. Ready to snack!
Notes
- Pick young, bright mushrooms for best texture.
- Slice uniform thickness for even drying.
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor.
- Try teriyaki sauce instead of soy.
- Add ginger for Asian twist.
- BBQ version: Use BBQ sauce base.
- Spicy kick: Double chili flakes.