Common Spices That Add Flavor To Jerky

Jerky’s deliciousness is matched only by its versatility. Not only can jerky come from an overwhelming variety of meats, but it can also be flavored with any number of spices. If you come across a slab of jerky that just isn’t delicious enough, know that there are a few common jerky spices that add flavor to jerky.

Garlic Powder

If you are looking for something a little bitter to add to your jerky, a popular choice is garlic powder. Easily found in stores or online, garlic powder is an inexpensive way to throw some flavor into any number of meals and snacks, especially jerky. Just be careful not to add too much—a little garlic can go a long way.

Chili Powder

Sometimes when you buy jerky online, the snack you receive is not exactly the one you pictured. Maybe you imagined something with a little more spice. For those occasions, adding extra chili powder can make the difference.

A red-colored blend of different spices, chili powder often contains cayenne pepper as well as garlic, oregano, and paprika. Depending on your taste preferences, chili powder can either be bought as a very spicy seasoning or a rather mild one. Regardless, chili powder is an excellent way to spruce up your jerky if it tastes a bit underwhelming.

Cumin

Cumin—a spice made from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant—brings an earthy, warm taste to jerky. It is often used to add flavor to soups, stews, vegetables, and, of course, meats. Much like other spices on this list, it is best to be conservative when using cumin, as it could overpower the taste if you use too much.

Dried Thyme

Among the common spices that add flavor to jerky, dried thyme provides a more subtle taste than most. Made from the leaf of a low-growing shrub in the mint family, dried thyme contains lavender and rosemary notes. It is a little sweet, a little peppery, and it is sure to blend well with whatever spices are already on the jerky.