Note: For a more current taste review on a tweaked bag design and ingredient list, open up Smokehouse Jerky Co. – Carne Asada Beef Brisket Jerky (Recipe #2).
The next review on Smokehouse Jerky Co. will focus on a 3 ounce/84 gram bag of their carne asada flavored beef brisket jerky. This flavor is described as using fresh cilantro and lime to create an authentic blend of flavors that bring back memories of your favorite Latin American dish. This jerky was graciously submitted for review by one of the owners, Franco Fonseca.
This jerky is manufactured and distributed by Tender Heifer Snack Co., and they are based out of Beaumont, California. The Smokehouse Jerky Co. brand name was launched in 2008. On January 2/2017, Franco and his wife Patti Fonseca acquired Smokehouse Jerky Co. from Trent Levinson and his wife Barbie. Franco has since added some new flavors, and they have a new web site. All Smokehouse Jerky Co. jerky is made in small batches. Tender Heifer Snack Co. are always looking for new distributors across the United States, and they offer private label services.
Ingredient Review
Ingredients: Beef, Brown Sugar, Orange Juice, Lime Juice, Sea Salt, Salt, Garlic, Gluten Free Soy Sauce (Water, Soybeans, Salt, Sugar), Fresh Jalapenos, Granulated Onions, Tomato Sauce, Fresh Cilantro, Cumin, Ground Pepper, Cayenne, Cilantro Flakes, Water, Paprika. Allergen Warnings: Soy
This brisket cut of beef used is from cattle raised in California. Brisket is considered to be one of the best cuts of beef to use for jerky. The beef used is not guaranteed to be free of growth hormones or additional antibiotics. Also, the beef is not guaranteed to have at least partial free range access to graze on grass. As a result, the highest ingredient rating that can be awarded is a Good (8/10) rating.
We have an interesting liquid marinade here comprised of healthy orange juice, healthy lime juice, a respectable brand of gluten free tamari soy sauce, water, and tomato sauce. Citrus juices are high on vitamin C.
There are multiple healthy ingredients used such as garlic, fresh Jalapenos, granulated onions, cilantro, cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Cilantro is strong scented leaves from the herb coriander, and it offers multiple health benefits.
The sugar level is high at 5 grams of sugar per 28 grams of jerky. Our preference is 3 grams of sugar or under per 28 grams of jerky. The salt level is respectable at 240mg of salt per 28 grams of jerky. As an added bonus, minimally processed sea salt is added.
As advertised, there are no unhealthy preservatives used, where this jerky is confirmed as having no sodium nitrite. Admirably, this jerky has no MSG added.
Decent (7/10) – Ingredient Rating
Taste Review
These strips of jerky are small to medium in size, and sliced almost thick. The texture is close to soft and tender, being easy to chew with the fantastic texture of beef brisket. There are no visible signs of fat, and handling this jerky leaves no oily residue on your fingers.
Immediately, it is apparent that this is one of the most wonderfully complex blends of flavors reviewed to date. There is a mild level of citrus, which does not go overboard. The unmistakable taste of cilantro is present, which does a great job of complementing the flavor.
Light levels of salt, garlic and black pepper blend in well. A bit of spiciness is present, which never does exceed a 2 out of 5 on the heat scale. Our only slight complaint is that the level of sweetness is arguably a little too high. Overall, this flavor boldly captures the essence of authentic tasting carne asada, and is an absolute joy to eat.
This 3 ounce/84 gram bag of jerky sells online for $8.00. That works out to $2.67 an ounce, which rates as an average price. Commendably, free shipping is offered on all orders. This flavor is highly recommended to anybody who remotely enjoys the flavors of citrus and cilantro.
Very Good (9/10) – Taste Rating
Bag Review
This resealable plastic bag has a label affixed on the front, and nothing on the back. The label has a fairly detailed picture of a wooden shack with a “Jerky Co.” sign.
Some facts printed on this bags are “Old Fashion Recipe”, “No Added MSG”, “No Added Preservatives”, “Made in U.S.A.”, “Old Fashion”, and “Brisket”.
All bag categories are covered but one. There is no blurb printed about Smokehouse Jerky Co. or Tender Heifer Snack Co.
Order their jerky online: www.smokehousejerkyco.com
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