Mushroom Jerky Recipe: Tips for Making Mushroom Jerky

Mushroom jerky is a vegan and vegetarian alternative to meat-based jerkies like beef jerky or turkey jerky. Mushrooms are a popular substitute for meat, thanks to their chewy texture and earthy umami flavor, so it’s no surprise that they’re a natural fit for jerky, too.

Jerkies are famous for their toothsome texture; slowly drying marinated mushrooms in a low oven or a dehydrator achieves a similar effect.

Mushroom jerky is a healthy snack rich in vitamin D and dietary fiber. Here’s how to make this popular vegan jerky at home:

1. 1. Choose the best type of mushroom. The flavor of the mushroom you use for jerky will be front and center, so choose a variety you enjoy. Try savory wild mushrooms, like chanterelles; rich, meaty shiitake mushrooms; or slices of milder portobello mushrooms. Learn about fourteen different edible mushroom varieties and how to cook them.
2. 2. Get creative with seasoning. Mushrooms are especially good at soaking up marinades, so feel free to layer on the flavor. Combine specialty ingredients like liquid smoke or smoked shōyu (soy sauce) with pantry staples, like toasted sesame oil or olive oil; sweeteners like brown sugar or maple syrup; punchy apple cider vinegar; and spices like onion powder, chili flakes, or garlic powder. Try a basic black pepper mushroom jerky or a sweet-and-savory teriyaki mushroom jerky.
3. 3. Make it soy- or gluten-free. Soy sauce is one of the easiest ways to add complex saltiness to mushroom jerky. For a soy-free mushroom jerky, use organic coconut aminos. For a gluten-free mushroom jerky, use tamari.
4. 4. Store in a cool, dry place. Store mushroom jerky in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot for up to two weeks.