Nomad Jerky - Chipotle Curry

Next in the series on Nomad Grass-Fed Beef Jerky is this Chipotle Curry variety. See our other review of their Black Pepper beef jerky.

Nomad Grass-Fed Beef Jerky is a relatively new brand based out of West Des Moines, IA. The company was founded by Bill Van Werden, who had been making jerky for 15 years for friends and family. The recent "Paleolithic Diet" caused Van Werden to focus on using grass-fed beef, sourced from cattle in Dorchester, IA.

Thus far the company produces only two flavors, this Chipotle Curry, and the Black Pepper I reviewed earlier.

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Clint & Sons Snack Sticks

While known more for their beef jerky, Clint & Sons markets their own line snack sticks too. The company, based in White Deer, TX, goes back to 1944 when Clint Freeman opened it up.

Today it's run by his sons and grandchildren. The company recently upgraded from state inspection to federal inspection, allowing them to sell meat snacks across all 50 states.

These snack sticks come in three flavors, Original, Jalapeno, and Honey Ham. The Original and Jalapeno are a blend of beef and pork, while the Honey Ham is all pork.

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Crazy Cow Jerky - Teriyaki Ginger

Next in the series on Crazy Cow Jerky is this Teriyaki Ginger variety. See our previous review of their Spicy Hot Ginger beef jerky.

Crazy Cow Jerky is a brand of MadCow Beef Jerky Co., based out of Carmichael, CA.  The company, started by Lon McPherson in 2007, has grown throughout Northern California filling store shelves in several high profile outlets including Raleys, Bel Air, Nugget Markets, and others.

This Teriyaki Ginger is described by the company as "Savor the unusual delight of natural ginger in our Teriyaki ginger Beef Jerky".

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Pap's Beef Sticks for Christmas!

Need a last minute gift idea?

Give 'em beef sticks!

Beef sticks fit perfectly as stocking stuffers, or you can buy a whole box and wrap it as a present. Imagine the smiles on their faces when they find a whole box of Pap's Beef Sticks!

Pap's are made with 100% beef, no fillers, no artificial ingredients, just ALL beef.

Make an online purchase of any 24 count box of Pap’s Beef Sticks or Triple Pack of Poppers Beef Stick Nuggets and receive a Beef Stick Sampler Pack FREE (that’s a $6.99 value).

What an easy way to give a great holiday gift and get a little holiday bonus yourself! Don’t miss it; Christmas only happens once a year! So make it a Pap's!

Buy online now:  https://papsbeefsticks.com/shop/

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Christmas Gift Ideas from House of Jerky

Beef jerky for Christmas has become a tradition in many American households, often as stocking stuffers, but also as gifts found wrapped under the Christmas Tree.

House of Jerky has won numerous top ratings (5 stars) for their many varieties and flavors. Check out these great gift ideas...

Beef Jerky – five flavors
Sample their five beef jerky flavors A 4oz. each of the following beef flavors: Natural, Black Pepper, Teriyaki, Hot, and Sweet & Spicy (click here)

Beef & Turkey jerky variety pack
A 14oz package that contains the following flavors:
Beef jerky -Natural 2oz, Black Pepper 2oz, Teriyaki 2oz, Hot 2oz, Sweet & Spicy 2oz, Turkey Jerky – Black Pepper 2oz, Teriyaki 2oz (click here)

Mega Jerky Gift Bag
Perfect for the jerky lover. A Mega Gift Bag that includes:

Beef Jerky - Natural 4oz, Black Pepper 4oz, Teriyaki 4oz, Hot 4oz, Sweet & Spicy 4oz, 3.5oz. Beef Brisket Jerky – Teriyaki flavor and 3.5oz. Beef Brisket Jerky – Sweet & Spicy flavor.
Turkey Jerky - Black Pepper 4oz, Teriyaki 4oz
Exotic Jerky - Buffalo 3.5 oz, Venison 3.5 oz, Wild Boar 3.5 oz (click here)

Jerky of Month Program

Get a unique House of Jerky variety each month for 12 months. It's the ultimate expression of meat love!

4oz. each of Black Pepper Beef Jerky, Black Pepper Turkey Jerky, Hot Beef Jerky, Natural Beef Jerky, Sweet & Spicy Pork Jerky, Teriyaki Beef Jerky. 3.5 oz. each of Buffalo Jerky, Sweet & Spicy Brisket Jerky, Venison Jerky, Wild Boar Jerky, Kangaroo Jerky, and Alligator Jerky. (click here)

Shipping

Shipping is free at House of Jerky, and they can usually ship orders in one day. So order now!

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The Jerky Connection - Satan's Flaming Hemorrhoids

Next in the on-going series of The Jerky Connection is this Satan's Flaming Hemorrhoids variety. See our other reviews of The Jerky Connection.

Run by Tom Greineder, The Jerky Connection is a new business that launched last June, based out of Wrightsville, PA, boasting several flavors ranging from mild to insanely hot, including a line of jerky dubbed, "7 Gates of Hell".

Described by the company as "sweet and savory and devilishly hot", Satan's Flaming Hemorrhoids is made with Ghost Peppers, Powdered Trinidad Scorpion, Trinidad Scorpion purée, and a "secret weaponized hot sauce" they like to call "Preparation-S".

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Jimmy's Sticky Jerky - Sticky Fire

Finishing up with the series on Jimmy's Sticky Jerky is this Sticky Fire variety. See my original review of their Sticky Sweet beef jerky, and their Sticky Heat.

Jimmy's Sticky Jerky is a new jerky brand launched in September 2012. It's the creation of Jim Nielsen, based out of Hermosa Beach, CA. Nielsen claims his love for jerky goes back to when he was just a fetus, and his mother had been snacking on the stuff while she was pregnant. Just 10 ten years ago, he started making his own jerky, and was encouraged to go into business by his closest friends.

This Sticky Fire variety builds on top of its Sticky Heat brethren of red, jalapeno, and habanero peppers, and adds ghost pepper chiles to create an even hotter experience.

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Crazy Cow Jerky - Spicy Hot Ginger

Crazy Cow Jerky is a brand of MadCow Beef Jerky Co., based out of Carmichael, CA. The company, started by Lon McPherson in 2007, has grown throughout Northern California filling store shelves in several high profile outlets including Raleys, Bel Air, Nugget Markets, and others.

The brand's jerky is made from top round beef and contains no preservatives, MSG, or "unpronounceable ingredients" as McPherson states. They currently offer five flavors, including their signature flavor "Cowafornia", which we'll be reviewing later.

This Spicy Hot Ginger variety is described by Crazy Cow as being "perfect for those that want a little tingle on their tongue".

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Clint & Sons Beef Jerky - Smoked BBQ

Next in the series on Clint & Sons Beef Jerky is this Smoked BBQ variety. See reviews of more flavors from Clint & Sons Beef Jerky.

Clint & Sons is a meat processing facility located in White Deer, TX. It's a family run business that goes back to 1944 when Clint Freeman opened it up. Today it's run by his sons and grandchildren. The company recently upgraded from state inspection to federal inspection, allowing them to sell jerky across all 50 states.

This Smoked BBQ variety is described as a slow smoked, tender barbecue jerky with just a hint of honey sweetness."

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12 Month Most Unique Jerky Club

Best jerky in any house delivered to your house for 12 months!

Bundled up beside a cozy holiday fire, walking along a sunny springtime trail, fishing beside a crystal clear lake in July or raking leaves in late autumn. . . times to enjoy some peace and quiet, and perhaps a snack. A package of jerky would taste pretty good right now, yes Sir! But not just any jerky. That gourmet jerky you tried and you just couldn’t get enough of.

House of Jerky has got you covered with their House of Jerky 12 Month Most Unique Jerky Club. Imagine Santa would deliver gifts every month, instead of just at Christmastime! Well now he can! The House of Jerky elves will pack and ship the finest, freshest and most flavorful gourmet jerky to you 12 times a year. Each month you’ll savor a different taste of jerky that’s been delivered to your front door. The variety of flavors we offer throughout the year includes:

4oz. each of -
Black Pepper Beef Jerky
Black Pepper Turkey Jerky
Hot Beef Jerky
Natural Beef Jerky
Sweet & Spicy Pork Jerky
Teriyaki Beef Jerky

3.5 oz. each of -
Buffalo Jerky
Sweet & Spicy Brisket Jerky
Venison Jerky
Wild Boar Jerky
Kangaroo Jerky
Alligator Jerky

Steve Johnson, publisher and taster of Best Beef Jerky Reviews writes,

“If you've read my other reviews of House of Jerky, you'll know that I've given them all "best" ratings, for the taste-complexities, outstanding natural meat flavors, and ease of eating.”

For the meat snacker in your life who enjoys “Only The Best”, House of Jerky 12 Month Most Unique Jerky Club makes the perfect gift. For just one payment of $150 you will receive 12 shipments of seriously delicious and tender jerky. This collection, a wide variety made from top round of Beef, Pork, Venison, Buffalo, Turkey, Wild Boar & Alligator. Healthful, savory and tender, each and every piece is guaranteed to have no preservatives and no MSG, and will be a gift that is sure to be remembered.

To start the tradition today, visit House of Jerky - Jerky of the Month to order.

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Golden Island Jerky - Teriyaki Pork

Finishing off the series on Golden Island Jerky is this Teriyaki Pork Jerky. See our reviews of flavors from Golden Island Jerky.

Golden Island Beef Jerky is a brand of Formosa Meat Co., Inc. based out of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. I had originally reviewed Golden Island back in 2008, but just recently the company unveiled a new package design, reformulated recipes, and eliminated the use of preservatives.

This Teriyaki Pork jerky is described as being, "an all-time favorite... Crafted with just the right blend of soy sauce, spices, mirin and real sugar."

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Jimmy's Sticky Jerky - Black Pepper

Next in the series on Jimmy's Sticky Jerky is this Black Pepper variety. See my previous review of their Sticky Sweet beef jerky.

Jimmy's Sticky Jerky is a new jerky brand launched in September 2012. It's the creation of Jim Nielsen, based out of Hermosa Beach, CA. The concept of "sticky jerky" is based on the stickiness of the marinade Nielsen uses. He makes all the jerky himself, trimming, slicing, and packaging the stuff. He currently sells it at farmers markets and a handful of local stores around Hermosa Beach.

This Black Pepper variety is said to be made with fresh-cracked pepper, claiming to be full of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

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The Jerky Connection - Hillbilly Campfire

Moving along in the series on The Jerky Connection is this Hillbilly Campfire beef jerky. See our previous review on The Jerky Connection.

Run by Tom Greineder, The Jerky Connection is a new business that launched last June, based out of Wrightsville, PA, boasting several flavors ranging from mild to insanely hot, including a line of jerky dubbed, "7 Gates of Hell".

This Hillbilly Campfire variety recreates that scene of woodsy outdoorsmen smoking their meat over a campfire. It brings in layers of mesquite and hickory smokiness.

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Hi-Country Beef Jerky - Honey Kist TenderSlice Strips

Next in the series on Hi-Country Beef Jerky is this Honey Kist TenderSlice Strip Style jerky. See last week's review of their Original Flat Style.

Hi-Country Beef Jerky is a brand of Hi-Country Snack Foods, Inc. based out of Lincoln, MT. The company started out in 1976 strictly as a beef jerky manufacturer, then as sales increased, they added beef sausage to their line up. The company makes jerky from their own USDA inspected facility.

This Honey Kist flavor is described by Hi-Country as "a delicious twist on our Original recipe with a kiss of honey."

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QuarterShare Beef Sticks

QuarterShare is a new brand of meat snacks launched this year based in Tulsa, OK. It's the creation of Richard Cranford, a medical device manufacturing executive, who had built a reputation for supporting charitable causes.

Ready for a new challenge, Cranford launched QuarterShare, a beef stick brand that donates 1/4 of its profits to charities. It also donates a beef stick for every four beef sticks sold to local food pantries and after school programs.

QuarterShare comes in three flavors, Original, Smokey Sweet, and Jalapeno Pepper. They are sold in stores in the Tulsa, OK area, as a fundraising product through a wide variety of groups, and soon from their website.

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Wild Bill's Beef Jerky for a Man-of-Action

"Since I was 5, I've been saving a dollar for a piece of jerky out of the jar. But they took the Wild Bill's out of the store I buy it from and now I can't get it there."

We received this hand-written plea from Darren Jr. of Harpers Ferry, WV recently. The letter was addressed to Steve Johnson, publisher of Best Beef Jerky. Darren Jr. had found our review of Wild Bill's Beef Jerky online. Being a "Man-of-Action" Darren Jr. wrote this letter in hopes of bringing his favorite beef jerky back to his local market.

At Best Beef Jerky we sprung into action and contacted Kim Olivito, Social Media Manager of Wild Bill's Jerky.

"I'll get this letter to Wild Bill right away!" Kim expressed. "He's a Man-of-Action too!"

Within a week Darren Jr., known by his family as Chuck, received a package from Wild Bill. Inside was two packages of Wild Bill's Beef Jerky and a Wild Bill's Jerky Jar to have for his very own!

"My Dad's name is Darren too so he thought it was for him. When he opened it up he saw the name Wild Bill and said, 'Chuck, this is for you.' When I saw the 2 packages of beef jerky and the awesome jar, I almost went through the roof! That beef jerky is the best in the world, no doubt about it. That was the best early Christmas present I ever got. Thank you so, so, so, so much. I could never thank you enough!"

Thank you Chuck and thank you Wild Bill! Good things come to "Men-of-Action"!

And it's like we always say here at Best Beef Jerky, "The man if your life wants the gift of jerky! Really! He does!!"

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The Jerky Connection - Chocolate Covered Jerky for Christmas

Perfect stocking stuffers for Christmas are these set of "limited edition" chocolate covered beef jerky offered by The Jerky Connection.

The three varieties: "Santa's Flaming Sleigh Ride", "Rudolph's Reindeer Tracks", and "Chocolate Snow", starts with The Jerky Connection's famous beef jerky, and then coats them in a variety of decadent sweet chocolate.

Run by Tom Greineder, The Jerky Connection is a new business that launched last June, based out of Wrightsville, PA, boasting several jerky flavors ranging from mild to insanely hot.

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Dried and True Beef Jerky - Sriracha Lime

Next in the series on Dried and True Beef Jerky is this Sriracha Lime variety. See our other reviews of Dried and True Beef Jerky.

Dried and True is a brand of all natural, artisan beef jerky based in Venice, CA. The brand was launched in August 2012 by Matt Lauster. The brand has managed to create a following around Venice, selling out at local farmer's markets and specialty stores.

This Sriracha Lime is made from Lauster's homemade Sriracha sauce made and boosted with Thai chiles, fresh garlic, and a tangy citrus finish of lime.

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Jimmy's Sticky Jerky - Sticky Heat

Moving along in the series on Jimmy's Sticky Jerky is this Sticky Heat variety. See my original review of their Sticky Sweet beef jerky.

Jimmy's Sticky Jerky is a new jerky brand launched in September 2012. It's the creation of Jim Nielsen, based out of Hermosa Beach, CA. Nielsen claims his love for jerky goes back to when he was just a fetus, and his mother had been snacking on the stuff while she was pregnant. Just 10 ten years ago, he started making his own jerky, and was encouraged to go into business by his closest friends.

This Sticky Heat variety says it adds fresh red, Jalapeno, and Habanero peppers into the marinade, claiming to give it a clean, but hot flavor that doesn't burn the mouth, but adds a bit of heat and spice.

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Gunslinger Jerky - Smoke

Next in the series on Gunslinger Jerky is this Smoke variety. See my previous review of their Cowboy Coffee jerky.

Gunslinger Jerky has been selling in the Chicago, IL area for about a few years now.  It's the creation of Dustin Miller and his wife Ashley. The brand, which bills itself as "Chicago's original rock 'n roll jerky company", is sold in several bars where the city's music scene thrives late into the night.

This Smoke variety is billed as "Beer infused, hickory and toasted spices".

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Crazy Horse Jerky Offers Jerky Gift Baskets for the Holidays

(The following is a message from Crazy Horse Jerky...)

Crazy Horse Jerky offers amazing Beef Jerky Gift Baskets!

Complete your Holiday Shopping early with the best gift for the man on your list! We all know men are impossible to shop for, but what man doesn't enjoy amazing beef jerky? You love our beef jerky and now, so will the hard-to-please men on your Holiday Shopping List!

Small Holiday Gift Basket

$79.99 ($115 Value!)
Includes:
•2 LBs of Jerky – 1/2 lb of each flavor
•Jerky Jar
•Hand-crafted wooden Crazy Horse crate
•Free UPS shipping (Canada $15)

Large Holiday Gift Basket

$129.99 ($178 value!)
Includes:
•3.5 LBs of Jerky – One LB of Original, Sweet, & Steakhouse.,1/2 LB of Cajun. All classic cut.
•Jerky Jar
•Crazy T-Shirt
•Hand-crafted wooden Crazy Horse crate
•Free UPS shipping (Canada $15)

All gift baskets will be shipped on 12/14 to ensure delivery before the holidays. If you want your basket now, please email us after your purchase. Canadian customers will receive additional invoice within 3 days of purchase for shipping.

Where to buy:  http://www.crazyhorsejerky.com/

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Hi-Country Beef Jerky - Original Flat Style

Hi-Country Beef Jerky is a brand of Hi-Country Snack Foods, Inc. based out of Lincoln, MT.

The company started out in 1976 strictly as a beef jerky manufacturer, then as sales increased, they added beef sausage to their line up. Eventually they grew to include several other brands including Hi-Country Meat Snacks, Hickory Kist Meat Snacks, Hi-Country Trading Post, and Montana Pet Foods. Later they went on to include jerky marinades, rubs, brines, and seasonings.

Hi-Country makes beef jerky in their own USDA inspected facility. They offer four meat styles, "Flat Style", "TenderSlice Strip", "Ranch Steak", and "Pucks". This Original flavor I have is from the Flat Style.

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Jimmy's Sticky Jerky - Sticky Sweet

Jimmy's Sticky Jerky is a new jerky brand launched in September 2012. It's the creation of Jim Nielsen, based out of Hermosa Beach, CA.

Nielsen claims his love for jerky goes back to when he was just a fetus, and his mother had been snacking on the stuff while she was pregnant. Just 10 ten years ago, he started making his own jerky, and was encouraged to go into business by his closest friends.

The concept of "sticky jerky" is based on the stickiness of the marinade Nielsen uses. He makes all the jerky himself, trimming, slicing, and packaging the stuff. He currently sells it at farmers markets and a handful of local stores around Hermosa Beach.

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House of Jerky - Teriyaki Brisket Jerky

Next in the series on House of Jerky's new line of brisket jerky is this Teriyaki variety. See last week's review of their Sweet & Spicy.

Jerky made from beef brisket tends to be more moist and tender, which seems to satisfy a growing demand for soft, easier jerky chewing. The moist consistency also allows the seasonings and marinade to blend together more fully.

This Teriyaki variety has a slightly different recipe than House of Jerky's top round Teriyaki, namely the inclusion of worcestershire sauce.

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Gunslinger Jerky - Cowboy Coffee

Gunslinger Jerky has been selling in the Chicago, IL area for about a few years now. It's the creation of Dustin Miller and his wife Ashley.

The brand, which bills itself as "Chicago's original rock 'n roll jerky company", is sold in several bars where the city's music scene thrives late into the night. Dustin Miller, who picked guitar for local area band Sons of Fire, saw a market for band members, bartenders, and music-goers whose stomachs needed something more substantial than booze.

This Cowboy Coffee beef jerky is one of the company's limited release flavors currently selling. Described as "sweet & spicy with a savory coffee rub", it's made with real coffee from Dark Matter Coffee Company of Chicago, IL.

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Gran D Jerky - Honey BBQ

Gran D Jerky is a new jerky company that launched in January 2012, based in Caracas, Venezuela. To my understanding it's being sold in stores in Venezuela, and has sponsored a variety of sporting events around the country. The company is expanding its infrastructure to accommodate increasing demand.

This Honey BBQ flavor is their only variety thus far. The company's President sent me samples for review, saying that it's cut directly from pieces of meat, but that they're looking into making it from minced meat.

I don't know if they plan to distribute Gran D Jerky to the United States.

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Gary West Meats - Smoked Wagyu Beef Jerky

New from Gary West Meats is this Smoked Wagyu Beef. See our reviews of other jerky products from Gary West Meats.

Wagyu Beef, along with American Kobe, and American Wagyu, are terms used in the United States referring to beef bred and raised similar to the famed Kobe Beef exclusive to Japan. Because true Kobe Beef cannot be exported to the United States, American cattle ranchers have sought to reproduce the same flavor and texture by utilizing similar stock, feeds, and handling practices.

This Wagyu Beef from Gary West Meats is derived from registered Japanese Tajima, Fujiyoski and Kedaka breed stock, the four breeds used to make true Kobe Beef, which were imported from Japan and raised in the United States.

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Golden Island Beef Jerky - Korean Barbecue Pork

Next in the series on Golden Island Beef Jerky is this Korean Barbecue Pork jerky. See my reviews of their other flavors here.

Golden Island Beef Jerky is a brand of Formosa Meat Co., Inc. based out of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. I had originally reviewed Golden Island back in 2008, but just recently the company unveiled a new package design, reformulated recipes, and eliminated the use of preservatives.

This Korean Barbecue Pork jerky is described as being, "flame grilled", "sweet and slightly smoky", with "bold flavors of sesame and spices".

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Give the Gift of Beef Sticks!

Forget Black Friday. How about a Black Weekend Blowout!

Beginning Thursday, November 22 thru Monday November 26, Make an online purchase of any 24 count box of Pap’s Beef Sticks or Triple Pack of Poppers Beef Stick Nuggets and receive a Beef Stick Sampler Pack FREE (that’s a $6.99 value).

What an easy way to give a great holiday gift and get a little holiday bonus yourself! Don’t miss it; the Black Weekend Blowout only happens once a year!

Buy online now:  https://papsbeefsticks.com/shop/

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Wild Bill's Beef Jerky - Teriyaki

Wild Bill's is a popular brand of jerky sold in the Eastern USA, owned and manufactured by Monogram Food Solutions, based out of Memphis, TN. Monogram owns several other jerky brands, including Trails Best, Uncle Buck's, and others.

I had reviewed a few other Wild Bill's jerky varieties earlier, click here to read.

Recently, the folks at Wild Bill's sent me a package of this Teriyaki, which was stamped with "More Teriyaki Taste", indicating a revised recipe. I haven't actually reviewed their teriyaki before.

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Golden Island Jerky - Grilled Barbecue Pork

Next in the series on Golden Island Jerky is this Grilled Barbecue Pork Jerky. See our reviews of their other flavors here.

Golden Island Beef Jerky is a brand of Formosa Meat Co., Inc. based out of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. I had originally reviewed Golden Island back in 2008, but just recently the company unveiled a new package design, reformulated recipes, and eliminated the use of preservatives.

This Grilled Barbecue Pork Jerky is described by the company as, "flame grilled", "sweet and slightly smoky", with a "hint of cinnamon and spice", and being comparable to the barbecued pork at your favorite chinese restaurant.

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The Jerky Connection - Spicy Southwest BBQ

Next in the series on The Jerky Connection is this Spicy Southwest BBQ. See our reviews of their other flavors here.

Run by Tom Greineder, The Jerky Connection is a new business that launched last June, based out of Wrightsville, PA, boasting several flavors ranging from mild to insanely hot, including a line of jerky dubbed, "7 Gates of Hell".

This Spicy Southwest BBQ beef jekry is described by the company as "A sweet tangy treat with a pinch of habanero", claiming to put a little spice in your BBQ.

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Phil's Beef Jerky - Hickory

Next in the series on Phil's Beef Jerky is this Hickory variety. See my previous reviews of their Mild beef jerky and Teriyaki beef jerky.

Phil's Beef Jerky is based out of Tye, TX, having been in operation the past four years. It was started by Phillip Morgan, who like many others in the jerky business, started out small but began to grow. He soon expanded into a larger facility, gained USDA inspection approval, and now supplies jerky to hundreds of service men and women at nearby Dyess AFB.

This Hickory variety is described by Phil as having a, "great taste and a smooth flavor for folks who do not like it spicy, but a great hickory flavor that you will enjoy snacking on."

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Dried and True Beef Jerky - Korean BBQ

Dried and True is a brand of all natural, artisan beef jerky based in Venice, CA. The brand was launched in August 2012 by Matt Lauster.

Focusing on all natural ingredients and using 100% USDA Choice Sirloin, Lauster has managed to create a following in his hometown. He sells his jerky at local farmer's markets and small specialty stores in Venice. Lauster claims to have sold out at the recent 150,000+ strong Abbot Kinney Festival, also in Venice.

This Korean BBQ variety is said to be Dried and True's best selling flavor. Lauster describes it as, "savory, sweet, and just a little spicy", and is made using his own homemade sriracha sauce.

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Uncle Zip's Beef Jerky - Original

Uncle Zip's Beef Jerky is based out of Hope Mills, NC, run by Ken Howell.

It started in 1995 by his father Bill Howell, who got a dehydrator for Christmas and started making jerky. Bill was able to sell his product at a few places around town. His son Ken joined the business and the two created, "Uncle Zip's Beef Jerky". In 2008, Ken's father, mother, and nephew died, leaving him in a state of depression, and nearly ending the business.

But Ken persevered, and last year was featured on the television show, "Shark Tank", where he pitched his beef jerky business to a panel of judges included Jeff Foxworthy, who coincidentally had his own brand of beef jerky (see our review).

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Golden Island Beef Jerky - Hickory Black Pepper

Next in the series on Golden Island Beef Jerky is this Hickory Black Pepper variety. See my reviews of their other flavors here.

Golden Island Beef Jerky is a brand of Formosa Meat Co., Inc. based out of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. I had originally reviewed Golden Island back in 2008, but just recently the company unveiled a new package design, reformulated recipes, and eliminated the use of preservatives.

This Hickory Black Pepper jerky is described by the company as, "Spicy cracked black pepper with a touch of smoky flavor. A unique and tasty treat, each piece of jerky is carefully sliced and perfectly seasoned with savory black pepper. From the first bite, the blast of pepper will wake up your taste buds while the smoky flavor will keep you coming back for more."

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Clint & Sons Beef Jerky - Chile Lime

Next in the series on Clint & Sons Beef Jerky is this Chile Lime variety. See our reviews of their other flavors.

Clint & Sons is a meat processing facility located in White Deer, TX. It's a family run business that goes back to 1944 when Clint Freeman opened it up. Today it's run by his sons and grandchildren. The company recently upgraded from state inspection to federal inspection, allowing them to sell jerky across all 50 states.

This Chile Lime variety is described as a tender cut that has been slow marinated in a unique blend of seasoning, and then slow smoked over real hickory, and finally hit with a hint of lime.

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Phil's Beef Jerky - Teriyaki

Next in the series on Phil's Beef Jerky is this Teriyaki variety. See my previous review of their Mild beef jerky.

Phil's Beef Jerky is based in Tye, TX, in operation for about four years, and owned by Phillip Morgan. Like many others in the jerky business, Phil's Beef Jerky started out small but began to grow. Phil soon expanded into a larger facility, gained USDA inspection approval, and now supplies jerky to hundreds of service men and women at nearby Dyess AFB.

This Teriyaki is described by Phil as having, "...a great flavor, just sweet enough with Honey to make your mouth want to take another bite."

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Slim Jim Dare Beef Jerky

Slim Jim's "Dare" line of meat snacks was launched in June 2011, designed to fulfill a growing demographic of male snackers tired of eating bland food in a world becoming increasingly conscious of health, food allergies, and weight gain. With flavors like "Kinda Hot Chili Pepper", "Freakin' Hot Jalapeno", and "Really Freakin' Hot Habanero", and emblazoned with colorful, eye-catching graphics, it's part of a new marketing campaign called, "Male Spice Loss", positioning Slim Jim our last hope against a trend of palate-pansies.

I only wanted to find out exactly how hot these three bold flavors names are in comparison with gourmet brands like Ed's Roadhouse, The Jerky Connection, and others, and not really intending to do my usual detailed review.

For those of you who've followed us over the past four years, you'll recall my previous review of Slim Jim's Jalapeno Jerky I did in April 2008.

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Beef Jerky Recipe Contest

We want your homemade beef jerky recipe!

If you love to make beef jerky, and you think you have a really good recipe, PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR RECIPE TO US!

All recipes we receive will be posted and categorized on our sister-website howtomakejerky.org for others to try.

We will pick up to 10 lucky winners.

Each will winner receive a 6-pack of Golden Island Beef Jerky.  Golden Island Beef Jerky is known for their unique asian-style flavors like Mandarin Orange, Korean Barbecue, and Grilled Pork, plus others.

The contest runs from November 1, 2012 through November 30, 2012.

E-mail your recipe to us at:





Contest Rules

1. When you submit a recipe to us, you are hereby certifying that you created this recipe or have permission to submit it to us.

2. All recipes submitted to us will be published on howtomakejerky.org for the public to see and use.

3. You can submit as many recipes you want.

4. Each recipe must have a name (e.g. "Mike's Famous Beef Jerky", "Hot Teriyaki Jerky", etc.

5. You must include one or more photos with each recipe, and it must pertain to that recipe (ingredients, making, finished product, etc)

6. You must include your first & last name.

7. You must include your mailing address (not a P.O. box)

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Phil's Beef Jerky - Mild

Phil's Beef Jerky is a small jerky manufacturer based in Tye, TX, in operation for about four years.

It's owned by Phillip Morgan, who like many others in the jerky business, started out small but began to grow. He soon expanded into a larger facility, gained USDA inspection approval, and now supplies jerky to hundreds of service men and women at nearby Dyess AFB.

Phil's Beef Jerky offers four different flavors, of which I have three to review over the coming weeks, including this Mild, a Teriyaki, and a Hickory. Phil's also has a Hot.

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Glenwood Beef Jerky - Hot Teriyaki

Continuing in the series on Glenwood Beef Jerky is this Hot Teriyaki variety. See my previous reviews of Glenwood Beef Jerky.

Glenwood Beef Jerky is a brand of Glenwood Smoked Products, based out of Idaho Falls, ID. Glenwood Smoked Products has been in operation since 1961 starting out as a small meat packing facility. In 1978 they expanded into a new facility and began smoking meats and making jerky.

Today, the company makes two brands of jerky, this Glenwood line, and a Hangtown line, which I reviewed last April (click here to read the review). The Glenwood is meant to be more chewy, while the Hangtown is meant to be more soft.

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Bam's Jerky - Kill Me!

Next in the series on Bam's Jerky is this "Kill Me!" variety. Read our review of their Original beef jerky.

Bam's Jerky is the creation of Bam Romero, a bartender at Toby's Public House, located in the South Slope of Brooklyn. Romero had been making jerky for nearly 20 years, but only recently started selling it in Ziploc baggies for about the last five. And with patrons seemingly hooked, Bam's is now getting press attention in several hyperlocal magazines. According to Romero, "even the cops are coming in for it".

This "Kill Me!" variety is dubbed, "Hot Hot Hot", being made with 10 varieties of peppers, and is said to be three times hotter than the Original.

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Golden Island Beef Jerky - Chili Lime

Next in the series on Golden Island Beef Jerky is this Chili Lime variety. See our previous review of their other flavors.

Golden Island Beef Jerky is a brand of Formosa Meat Co., Inc. based out of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. I had originally reviewed Golden Island back in 2008, but just recently the company unveiled a new package design, reformulated recipes, and eliminated the use of preservatives.

This Chili Lime beef jerky was among the flavors I had reviewed back then (see old review).

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Real Steak Jerky - Chipotle Cracked Pepper

Next in the series on Real Steak Jerky is this Chipotle Cracked Pepper. See the previous review of their Original Recipe.

Real Steak Jerky is a brand of RSJ Ventures, LLC based out of Naples, FL. It was launched in 2009 by a couple of golf buddies, Dennis Riedel and Blair Swiler. The company says their jerky is hand cut from USDA Choice flank steak, and made with premium ingredients like raw cane sugar, naturally brewed soy sauce, and 100% raw horseradish root.

This Chipotle Cracked Pepper is the company's only other variety, aside from the Original Recipe I reviewed last week.

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Golden Island Beef Jerky - Mandarin Orange

Golden Island Beef Jerky is a brand of Formosa Meat Co., Inc. based out of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. I had originally reviewed Golden Island back in 2008, but just recently the company unveiled a new package design, reformulated recipes, and eliminated the use of preservatives.

The Golden Island brand actually goes back to 1952 when Chun Fa Shih and his family opened a small market in Taiwan, and by 1970 the business had grown quickly. His son, Eric Shih, moved to the USA and set up a meat processing facility in Hull, IA, making asian-style meat products. In 1995, another of his sons, Ting Shih, came to Southern California and set up Formosa Meat Co., specifically to make jerky. In 2005, Formosa launched the Golden Island brand, and is now sold across the USA at Costco.

This Mandarin Orange beef jerky is actually one of the brand's original flavors, which I had reviewed before (visit link). I'm reviewing it again based on its new recipe and processing.

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The Jerky Connection - 7 Gates of Hell: Gate 7

Next in the series on The Jerky Connection is this Gate 7 of the "7 Gates of Hell" series. See our previous reviews of The Jerky Connection.

The "7 Gates of Hell" is a series of 7 really hot jerky varieties, starting with Gate 1, and getting hotter as you go up the 7th and final gate. The Jerky Connection has the entire story about this, but to make things simple, those who manage to pass through all 7 gates will be sent to Hell, never to return.

Gate 7 is described as being made from 8 different chile peppers, including Ghost Peppers, Scorpion Peppers, Habanero Peppers, Scotch Bonnetts, just to name a few. This Gate 7 jerky won 2nd place in the 2013 Scovie Awards in the beef jerky category.

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