This is the best THM-style Turkey Jerky I’ve found.
I wanted a convenient, plan-approved protein snack that followed the Trim Healthy Mama guidelines, but couldn’t find anything affordable and compliant. So I decided to make my own.
I used to make venison jerky years ago, but without venison available I chose extra-lean turkey. It worked perfectly.
I bought extra-lean ground turkey (96–99% lean) and looked for a jerky gun. I found one locally and ignored the included seasoning packet since it contained sugar and other off-plan ingredients.
We didn’t have a dehydrator at the time, so I dried the jerky in the oven — it worked great.
Turkey Jerky (Sugar Free, Low Carb)
- 3 lbs extra-lean ground turkey (96–99% lean)[br]5 tsp garlic powder[br]4 tsp onion powder[br]3 tsp salt[br]2 tsp ground black pepper[br]1 ¼ cups fat-free chicken broth[br]1 tbsp liquid smoke[br]1 tsp blackstrap molasses
- Combine the ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Whisk together the chicken broth, liquid smoke, and molasses, then pour the mixture into the bowl with the turkey. Stir until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 3 hours.
- Form the meat into strips about 1/8–1/4 inch thick using a jerky gun, or press/roll the meat flat and cut into strips.
- Dry in a 200°F (93°C) oven for 6–12 hours, until the jerky reaches your desired dryness.
- Place the jerky on paper towels to cool and absorb any excess moisture or fat.
- Store at room temperature and consume within 24–48 hours, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container and use within 3–4 months.
I love grabbing a bag of this turkey jerky for road trips — it keeps me on plan when I’m away from home. Our grandson Declan also enjoys it as a snack.
Even after buying a jerky gun, this recipe saves money because you can use any lean ground meat. I was fortunate to find a dehydrator at a thrift store for a great price, but the oven method works well too.
Below is the jerky gun I purchased:
