Matt’s Jerky Recipes: Beyond Snacking – Elevating Your Cooking with Deliciously Savory Flavors

Matt’s Jerky isn’t just a tasty snack; it’s a flavor powerhouse waiting to be unleashed in your kitchen. This article explores innovative and delicious ways to incorporate Matt’s Jerky into various recipes, transforming everyday meals into culinary adventures. From appetizers to main courses, discover how the unique textures and bold flavors of Matt’s Jerky can add a savory depth and satisfying crunch to your cooking.

Why Cook with Matt’s Jerky?

Before diving into the recipes, let’s explore why Matt’s Jerky is an excellent ingredient for culinary experimentation:

* **Intense Flavor:** Matt’s Jerky boasts a concentrated, umami-rich flavor that enhances any dish. Whether it’s the spicy kick of their Jalapeno jerky or the smoky depth of their Original variety, each bite delivers a burst of taste.
* **Unique Texture:** The chewy, slightly firm texture of jerky adds a delightful contrast to softer ingredients, creating a more interesting and satisfying eating experience.
* **Protein Boost:** Jerky is packed with protein, making it a healthy and convenient way to add nutritional value to your meals.
* **Shelf Stability:** Matt’s Jerky has a long shelf life, so you can always have it on hand to add a touch of flavor to your cooking whenever inspiration strikes.
* **Versatility:** Jerky can be used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and salads to stir-fries and even desserts (yes, desserts!).

Essential Tips for Cooking with Matt’s Jerky

To make the most of Matt’s Jerky in your recipes, keep these tips in mind:

* **Consider the Flavor Profile:** Choose a jerky flavor that complements the other ingredients in your dish. A sweeter jerky might work well in a dessert, while a spicier jerky would be ideal for a savory appetizer.
* **Control the Salt:** Jerky is naturally salty, so adjust the amount of salt you add to your recipe accordingly. Taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
* **Chop it Up:** Depending on the recipe, you may need to chop the jerky into smaller pieces. Use a sharp knife or food processor to achieve the desired consistency.
* **Rehydrate if Necessary:** If you’re using jerky in a soup or stew, you may want to rehydrate it slightly before adding it to the dish. This will help soften the jerky and prevent it from becoming too tough.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Jerky is already cooked, so you don’t need to cook it for a long time. Add it towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from drying out.

Matt’s Jerky Recipe Ideas

Here are some creative and delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of Matt’s Jerky:

1. Matt’s Jerky & Cheddar Scalloped Potatoes

This dish is a comfort food classic elevated with the smoky, savory goodness of Matt’s Jerky. It’s perfect as a side dish or a hearty main course.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
* 1 cup Matt’s Jerky (Original or Hickory Smoked), chopped
* 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
* 2 tablespoons melted butter

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and chopped Matt’s Jerky until melted and smooth.
5. Arrange half of the potato slices in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
6. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the potatoes.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

2. Spicy Matt’s Jerky Fried Rice

This quick and easy fried rice recipe gets a flavorful kick from spicy Matt’s Jerky, making it a satisfying and delicious meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 cups cooked rice, preferably day-old
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
* 1/2 cup Matt’s Jerky (Jalapeno or Habanero), chopped
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (optional)
* 2 eggs, lightly beaten
* Green onions, chopped, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add red bell pepper and frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Push vegetables to one side of the wok or skillet. Pour in beaten eggs and cook, scrambling until set.
4. Add cooked rice and chopped Matt’s Jerky to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps of rice.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha sauce (if using). Pour over the rice mixture and stir-fry until well combined.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

3. Matt’s Jerky and White Bean Chili

This hearty chili is packed with flavor and protein, thanks to the addition of Matt’s Jerky and white beans. It’s perfect for a cold winter day.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1 pound Matt’s Jerky (Original or Peppered), chopped
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
* 4 cups chicken broth
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add green bell pepper and jalapeno pepper (if using) and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Add chopped Matt’s Jerky, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, cannellini beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until flavors have melded.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions.

4. Matt’s Jerky and Avocado Toast

Elevate your avocado toast with a savory twist by adding crumbled Matt’s Jerky. This simple yet satisfying breakfast or snack is packed with healthy fats, protein, and flavor.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 slices of your favorite bread, toasted
* 1 ripe avocado, mashed
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/4 cup Matt’s Jerky (any flavor), crumbled
* Optional toppings: everything bagel seasoning, a squeeze of lime juice

**Instructions:**

1. Toast the bread to your desired level of crispness.
2. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread.
4. Sprinkle crumbled Matt’s Jerky over the avocado toast.
5. Optional: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or squeeze a bit of lime juice over the top for added flavor.
6. Serve immediately.

5. Matt’s Jerky & Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

This appetizer is a sweet and savory delight. The chewy sweetness of the dates, the tangy creaminess of the goat cheese, and the salty bite of Matt’s Jerky create a complex and satisfying flavor combination.

**Ingredients:**

* 12 Medjool dates, pitted
* 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup Matt’s Jerky (any flavor), finely chopped
* 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Carefully slice each date lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. In a small bowl, combine softened goat cheese and finely chopped Matt’s Jerky. If desired, drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
3. Spoon the goat cheese mixture into the slit of each date, filling it generously.
4. Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter.
5. Serve immediately or chill for later.

6. Matt’s Jerky Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

Add a protein-packed punch to your salad with Matt’s Jerky! This salad features a mix of greens, fresh vegetables, and a delicious honey mustard vinaigrette.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 cups mixed greens
* 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/2 cucumber, sliced
* 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/2 cup Matt’s Jerky (any flavor), chopped
* 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

**For the Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:**

* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Matt’s Jerky.
2. If using, add crumbled blue cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Pour the honey mustard vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.

7. Matt’s Jerky Pizza Topping

Take your homemade pizza to the next level by adding Matt’s Jerky as a topping. Its salty, savory flavor complements the other pizza ingredients perfectly.

**Ingredients:**

* Pre-made or homemade pizza dough
* Pizza sauce
* Shredded mozzarella cheese
* Matt’s Jerky (any flavor), chopped
* Optional toppings: mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, pepperoni

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to the temperature recommended on your pizza dough packaging (usually around 450°F or 232°C).
2. Roll out or stretch the pizza dough to your desired shape and thickness.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
4. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Top with chopped Matt’s Jerky and any other desired toppings.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

8. Matt’s Jerky Compound Butter

Elevate your steak, vegetables, or bread with this flavorful compound butter made with Matt’s Jerky. It’s a simple way to add a burst of savory goodness to any dish.

**Ingredients:**

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/4 cup Matt’s Jerky (any flavor), finely chopped
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, finely chopped Matt’s Jerky, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Place the butter mixture on a sheet of plastic wrap and shape it into a log.
5. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
6. When ready to use, slice the compound butter into rounds and serve on steak, vegetables, or bread.

9. Matt’s Jerky Infused Olive Oil

Infuse olive oil with the savory flavor of Matt’s Jerky to create a unique and delicious condiment for dipping, drizzling, or cooking.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
* 1/4 cup Matt’s Jerky (any flavor), roughly chopped
* Optional: 1 clove garlic, smashed; a sprig of rosemary

**Instructions:**

1. In a small saucepan, combine olive oil and roughly chopped Matt’s Jerky. Add garlic and rosemary, if using.
2. Heat over low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to let the oil smoke.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
4. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the jerky and any solids.
5. Pour the infused olive oil into a clean jar or bottle.
6. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks. Use for dipping bread, drizzling over salads, or cooking.

10. Matt’s Jerky Trail Mix with a Kick

Upgrade your trail mix with the bold flavors of Matt’s Jerky! This recipe provides a balanced combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors perfect for snacking.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts, etc.)
* 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
* 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk)
* 1/4 cup Matt’s Jerky (Jalapeno or Habanero recommended), chopped
* 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
3. Store in an airtight container for easy snacking on the go.

Conclusion

Matt’s Jerky is more than just a convenient snack; it’s a versatile ingredient that can add a unique depth of flavor and texture to your cooking. By experimenting with these recipes and letting your culinary creativity flow, you can discover even more ways to incorporate the savory goodness of Matt’s Jerky into your everyday meals. So, grab a bag of your favorite flavor and start cooking! You’ll be amazed at the delicious possibilities.