June 12 is National Jerky Day, and I'll admit, this one caught my attention for a very personal reason.
As I've become more focused on what I eat this year, I've realized something about myself—I snack too much, and often not on the best things!
I've been making some simple changes, like mixing my own granola, cutting back on mashed potatoes (which is tough for this Texas girl!), reducing my butter and bread intake, and paying more attention to ingredients. I'm not aiming for perfection; I'm simply trying to make better choices more often.
One thing I haven't been willing to give up is having snacks available when I'm on the go. Whether I'm showing homes, meeting clients, traveling between Montgomery and DFW, or spending time around Lake Conroe, I need something quick and satisfying to keep me going.
Thankfully, I've always loved beef jerky.
That's one reason National Jerky Day feels like the perfect Foodie Friday topic. Jerky is portable, protein-packed, and easy to toss in a purse, car, boat bag, or golf cart. But like many packaged foods, some varieties contain more sugar, sodium, and preservatives than I'd prefer.
So this year, I'm planning to try making my own. Not because I think store-bought jerky is bad, but because making it myself allows me to control exactly what goes into it and experiment with flavors I enjoy.
Why Jerky Has Stood the Test of Time
Jerky has been a favorite travel snack for generations because it's:
- High in protein
- Easy to transport
- Great for road trips and outdoor activities
- Satisfying when hunger strikes
- Available in countless flavors
Whether you like smoky, spicy, peppered, teriyaki, or sweet-and-spicy varieties, there's probably a jerky with your name on it.
Build a Better Snack Pack
One thing I've learned this year is that protein alone isn't always enough. Pairing it with other healthy options can help create a more balanced snack.
Here are a few combinations I've been enjoying:
🥩 Beef jerky + cheese cubes
🥩 Beef jerky + almonds or pecans
🥩 Beef jerky + fresh berries
🥩 Beef jerky + sliced cucumbers or bell peppers
🥩 Beef jerky + a hard-boiled egg
These simple combinations are easy to pack for a day at the lake, a road trip, an afternoon of showing homes, or just a busy day running errands.
Easy Homemade Oven Beef Jerky
Want to try making your own?
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean flank steak or top round steak
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Directions:
- Freeze the beef for about 30 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Slice into thin strips.
- Mix marinade ingredients and combine with beef.
- Refrigerate for 4-12 hours.
- Preheat oven to 175-200 degrees.
- Arrange strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Bake for 3-4 hours until dry but still slightly flexible.
- Cool completely before storing.
I haven't made my first batch yet, but it's definitely on my summer food project list!
Food Is Meant to Be Enjoyed
If there's one thing I've learned this year, it's that healthier eating doesn't mean giving up everything you love. Sometimes it's just about making a few better choices, paying attention to ingredients, and finding snacks that keep you satisfied.
So in honor of National Jerky Day, I'd love to hear from you.
What's your favorite jerky brand or flavor? Have you ever made your own?
Drop your recommendations in the comments—I may need some inspiration for my first homemade batch!
And if you're looking for more than snack recommendations and are considering buying, selling, or investing in real estate, I'm always happy to help.
After all, finding the perfect home with a story is what I do best.
For all your real estate needs, get Jacque! Serving Montgomery, Lake Conroe, DFW & beyond.