Personally, a fantastic Maple and Pepper marinade is a perfect Jerky marinade. Navigate to the section below to read our recipe tips for this type of marinades, and our ideas for other marinade flavors. As a beef jerky enthusiast and manufacturer, I've spent countless hours experimenting with unique pairings to elevate this protein-packed treat. Today, I'm excited to share some of the most mind-blowing beef jerky pairings that you simply must try. Whether you're a seasoned jerky fan or a curious newcomer, these combinations will take your snacking experience to the next level.

Jerky and Cheese Pairings

Classic Combinations

There's something timeless about the combination of beef jerky and cheese. The smoky, savory flavor of jerky pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy taste of cheese. One of my go-to pairings is smoky beef jerky with sharp cheddar. The sharpness of the cheddar cuts through the smokiness of the jerky, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Another favorite is spicy jerky with creamy brie. The heat from the jerky contrasts with the mild, buttery brie, making each bite a delightful adventure. These classic pairings are a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of jerky and cheese.

Unexpected Twists

If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing your jerky with blue cheese. The strong, tangy flavor of blue cheese pairs surprisingly well with the savory taste of jerky. It's a bold combination that might just become your new favorite.

For a more subtle twist, try pairing garlic pepper jerky with gouda. The mild, nutty flavor of gouda complements the garlicky notes of the jerky, creating a harmonious blend that's sure to please.

Jerky and Liquor Pairings

Whiskey

Whiskey and beef jerky are a match made in heaven. The complex flavors of whiskey enhance the boldness of the jerky, making for an unforgettable snack. I love pairing spicy beef jerky with a glass of rye whiskey. The spicy, earthy notes of the rye complement the heat of the jerky, creating a robust and satisfying combination.

Vodka

For a lighter option, try pairing jerky with flavored vodkas. Citrus-infused vodka and sweet and spicy jerky make a refreshing, zesty snack. The clean, crisp taste of vodka balances the jerky's robust flavors, making it an excellent choice for a summer evening.

Tequila

Tequila, especially blanco or reposado varieties, pairs wonderfully with beef jerky. The agave notes and slight sweetness of tequila enhance the jerky's savory profile. I recommend pairing reposado tequila with lime and chili jerky for a vibrant, spicy combination. Adding a squeeze of lime to the pairing gives it an extra kick of freshness.

Rum

Dark or spiced rum adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness to beef jerky. Spiced rum and honey-glazed jerky make a decadent, sweet-spicy treat. This pairing is perfect for those who enjoy bold, indulgent flavors.

Gin

The botanical flavors in gin highlight and contrast with the jerky's seasoning, making for an intriguing pairing. I enjoy pairing botanical gin with herbal or garlic pepper jerky. The aromatic notes of the gin enhance the herbal flavors of the jerky, creating a unique and sophisticated snack.

Brandy

Pairing brandy with rich, savory jerky brings out the smooth, fruity notes in the brandy. Aged brandy and teriyaki jerky make a sophisticated, flavorful snack. Sipping the brandy slowly allows you to fully appreciate the complex flavor interplay.

Mezcal

The smoky, earthy flavors of mezcal make it an excellent match for beef jerky, especially varieties with a smoky profile. Pair smoky jerky with mezcal for an intensely flavorful experience. This pairing is perfect for those who enjoy deep, robust flavors.

Beer Cocktails

Beer-based cocktails like a Michelada or a beer margarita add a fun twist to the jerky experience. Michelada and chili-lime jerky make a spicy, tangy delight. Using a light, crisp beer as the base lets the jerky's flavors stand out.

Liqueurs

Sweet or herbal liqueurs like amaretto, herbal schnapps, or Chambord provide a contrasting sweetness to savory jerky. Amaretto and BBQ jerky make a sweet and smoky pairing. Serving the liqueur over ice enhances the refreshing contrast.

Cocktails

Create custom cocktails that highlight the jerky's flavors. Spicy Bloody Marys or savory Old Fashioneds pair wonderfully with beef jerky. Garnishing the cocktail with a jerky strip adds a fun and flavorful twist.

Jerky Marinade Pairings

Soy Sauce and Ginger

Soy sauce and ginger create a savory, umami-rich marinade that adds depth and a subtle spice to your beef jerky. I love mixing soy sauce, minced ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey for a balanced marinade. Letting the beef marinate for at least 12 hours allows the flavors to fully penetrate.

Teriyaki

Teriyaki marinade brings a sweet and tangy flavor to beef jerky. Combining soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar creates a traditional teriyaki marinade. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a spicy kick.

BBQ Sauce

BBQ sauce infuses your beef jerky with smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. Using your favorite BBQ sauce as the base, add a splash of apple cider vinegar and a dash of liquid smoke. Choose a BBQ sauce with natural ingredients for the best flavor.

Honey and Sriracha

Honey and sriracha create a perfect balance of sweet and heat. Mix honey, sriracha, soy sauce, and a squeeze of lime juice for a flavorful marinade. Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spice level.

Garlic and Herb

Fresh garlic and a blend of herbs create a simple yet flavorful marinade. Blend olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and a splash of lemon juice. Using fresh herbs gives a more vibrant flavor profile.

Chili Lime

Chili lime adds a zesty, spicy twist to your beef jerky. Combine lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and a touch of honey for a flavorful marinade. Letting the beef sit in the marinade for at least 8 hours ensures maximum flavor.

Brown Sugar and Bourbon

Brown sugar and bourbon create a rich, indulgent flavor. Mix brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Heating the marinade slightly to dissolve the brown sugar before adding the beef enhances the flavor.

Coconut Aminos and Pineapple

Coconut aminos and pineapple create a tropical-inspired marinade that’s both sweet and savory. Blend coconut aminos, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger. Marinating overnight allows the pineapple enzymes to tenderize the beef.

Spicy Mustard

Spicy mustard adds a tangy and spicy kick to your beef jerky. Combine Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and cayenne pepper. Adjusting the honey to mustard ratio balances sweetness and tanginess.

Maple and Black Pepper

Maple syrup and black pepper create a delightful combination of sweet and robust flavors. Mix maple syrup, cracked black pepper, soy sauce, and a touch of garlic powder. Using real maple syrup gives the best flavor.

Jerky and Fruit Pairings

Dried Fruits

Mixing beef jerky with dried fruits like apricots, cherries, or mango creates a portable and tasty snack. The sweetness of the dried fruit complements the savory jerky, making for a balanced and satisfying combination.

Fresh Fruits

Pairing beef jerky with fresh fruits like oranges or grapefruits adds a refreshing twist. The citrus notes enhance the jerky's flavor, creating a zesty and revitalizing snack. This combination is perfect for a summer picnic or a quick, healthy snack on the go.

Health Benefits

Combining beef jerky with fruits not only creates delicious snacks but also offers nutritional benefits. The protein in the jerky and the vitamins in the fruits make these pairings both tasty and healthy. This combination is ideal for those looking to fuel their day with a nutritious snack.

Jerky and Nuts Pairings

Classic Nuts

Pairing beef jerky with almonds, walnuts, or cashews creates a protein-packed combo. The crunchiness of the nuts contrasts with the chewiness of the jerky, making for a satisfying snack. This combination is perfect for hiking, road trips, or a quick office snack.

Flavored Nuts

Try pairing spicy jerky with honey-roasted peanuts or seasoned pistachios for an extra layer of flavor. The sweetness or seasoning of the nuts adds depth to the jerky, creating a complex and enjoyable snack.

Textural Delight

The combination of crunchy nuts and chewy jerky creates a delightful textural contrast. This pairing is perfect for those who enjoy varied textures in their snacks. It's also a great way to add some excitement to your snacking routine.

Jerky and Bread Pairings

Sandwiches

Creating gourmet sandwiches using beef jerky, artisan bread, and fresh veggies is a fantastic way to enjoy jerky. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a filling and delicious meal. Try adding some avocado or a fried egg for an extra boost of flavor.

Crackers and Crostini

Top whole grain crackers or crostini with jerky slices for a quick and tasty bite. This pairing is perfect for parties, game day, or a simple snack. Adding a dollop of cream cheese or a slice of tomato can enhance the flavor even more.

Satisfying Snacks

Jerky and bread pairings are not only delicious but also satisfying. The combination of protein and carbs provides a balanced snack that can keep you energized throughout the day. This pairing is perfect for those who need a quick and nutritious snack.

Jerky and Dips

Savory Dips

Pairing jerky with savory dips like hummus or guacamole creates a flavorful snack. The creamy texture of the dips complements the chewy jerky, making for a delightful combination. This pairing is perfect for parties or a casual snack at home.

Sweet Dips

For a sweet twist, try dipping jerky in a honey mustard or a fruit-based sauce. The sweetness of the dip contrasts with the savory jerky, creating a unique and enjoyable snack. This pairing is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of sweet and savory flavors.

Fun and Flavorful

Pairing jerky with dips adds an element of fun to your snacking experience. It's a great way to experiment with different flavors and find new combinations that you love. This pairing is perfect for those who like to get creative with their snacks.

In conclusion, beef jerky is an incredibly versatile snack that pairs well with a wide variety of foods and drinks. By exploring these pairings, you can discover new and exciting ways to enjoy your favorite beef jerky. Whether you're a seasoned jerky fan or just starting out, these combinations will take your snacking experience to the next level. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the unbelievable beef jerky pairings that will blow your mind!