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Paleo Beef Jerky with No Sugar Added

Emily Carter
This vegan paleo jerky ditches sugar and animal products but keeps all the smoky, chewy, protein-packed goodness you crave in a snack.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups soy curls or thick-cut portobello mushroom slices
  • 2 tbsp coconut aminos for that umami magic
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp liquid smoke optional but makes it legit
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions
 

  • If using soy curls, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid like they owe you rent.
  • In a bowl, mix coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, oil, and spices into a bold little marinade.
  • Toss your soy curls or mushrooms in the marinade. Let them soak it all in for at least 10 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 200°F or prep your dehydrator like you're about to become a Pinterest legend.
  • Lay your slices flat on a parchment-lined tray. Avoid overlapping unless you want flavor chaos.
  • Bake or dehydrate for 2–3 hours until dry, firm, and jerky-like. Flip halfway if using an oven.
  • Cool completely before storing. Hide it or it'll vanish faster than your last “healthy” snack.

Notes

Nutritional Info (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 130
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 10g

Key Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving):

  • Iron: 15%
  • Vitamin B6: 10%
  • Magnesium: 12%
  • Zinc: 8%
  • Potassium: 10%

Notes & Tips for Maximum Flavor:

  • Don’t skip the liquid smoke—it’s the drama your jerky needs.
  • Adjust spices based on your mood (add cayenne for that spicy main character energy).
  • Store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for a month (if you have that kind of willpower).
  • Want it sweeter? Add a splash of unsweetened pineapple juice—but don’t say I made you cheat on “no sugar.”
  • Great for hiking, road trips, or stress-snacking while pretending to “meal prep.”