Marinade Ingredients
(For 2–3 pounds of meat)
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1–2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Optional: 1 tsp Prague Powder #1
Preparing the Meat
Start with 2–3 pounds of lean wild game meat.
Slice the meat into strips approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
Choosing Your Slice Direction
- Against the grain produces a more tender, easier-to-chew jerky.
- With the grain creates a traditional jerky texture with more chew.
Place the sliced meat into a large bowl or resealable bag.
Pour the marinade over the meat and mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated.
Cover and refrigerate overnight, though a full 24-hour marinade will provide the best flavor.
Smoking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 165–180°F.
For the best flavor, use a mild smoking wood such as:
- Apple
- Cherry
- Pecan
These woods complement the sweet and savory General Tso's flavors without overpowering the meat.
Step 2: Arrange the Jerky
Lay the marinated strips flat on smoker racks, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even airflow.
Step 3: Smoke
Smoke the jerky for 3–5 hours, depending on thickness and desired texture.
Begin checking for doneness around the 3-hour mark.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Properly finished jerky should:
- Bend without breaking completely
- Crack slightly when folded
- Feel dry on the outside while remaining slightly pliable
Avoid over-drying, as the jerky will continue to firm up as it cools.
Storage
Allow the jerky to cool completely before storing.
Keep in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.
For longer shelf life, refrigerate or freeze portions you won't be eating immediately.
TaggedOut Tip
Slice your meat as evenly as possible so every piece finishes at the same time. A partially frozen roast is much easier to cut into consistent strips and makes prep work much quicker.
This General Tso's Wild Game Jerky is a unique twist on traditional jerky that brings together sweet Asian-inspired flavors with the rich taste of wild game. Once you try it, don't be surprised if it becomes your new favorite batch.
