Family Run - Jerky Fun

Jilly’s Jerky was founded by the daughter of a man who loved making beef jerky for his family.  Sitting on the kitchen table, watching my dad meticulously hang jerky in the oven while sneaking swigs of soy sauce is a joyful childhood memory of mine. While the rich, savory aroma slowly filled the house and the meat, hung in the oven by toothpicks, dripped marinade on carefully positioned foil, it seemed like an eternity before my family was finally able to enjoy that delicious meat treat. 

Made only for three big holiday gatherings each year, beef jerky didn’t last long with us. It was even more short lived as my dad continued to refine his passion over the years and he generously portioned out servings to close friends in ziplock bags. His dehydrator didn’t make over seven pounds and once my nieces and nephew came along, he began to hide a bag in the bottom draw of the fridge. Perhaps that bag was just for him after all the kids left the house, but when I found it, he assured me it was just for us.   

My dad passed away in 2013 and I took on the role of “jerky maker” for my family. Now with three young children of my own who shout “JERKY! JERKY! JERKY!” each time a fresh batch is ready to be devoured, I decided it was time to share the JERKY JOY with all!  Luckily, my partner-in-life is also on board to be my partner-in-jerky-making! 

We hope you enjoy!