The most suitable muscle section of beef for creating dried meat snacks involves lean, uniformly textured portions. Selecting the correct primal and subprimal cut directly influences the final product’s flavor, chewiness, and overall appeal. For example, a cut with minimal intramuscular fat and a consistent grain will yield a jerky that is easier to slice, marinate, and dehydrate evenly.
Employing an appropriate beef selection offers several advantages. It results in a more tender, easier-to-chew product compared to using tougher, less desirable cuts. Furthermore, opting for lean options minimizes fat content, increasing the shelf life of the jerky and providing a healthier snack alternative. Historically, using optimal muscle tissues has been a key factor in producing jerky that is both palatable and long-lasting.