Learn how to make homemade Twiggy sticks, a type of jerky, using a pellet smoker. This guide covers ingredients, preparation, smoking techniques, and storage tips for a tasty snack without additives.
If you're looking for a tasty snack that you can make at home without any nasty additives, Twiggy sticks, also known as jerky sticks, are a fantastic option. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of making these delicious treats using a pellet smoker.
To make your own Twiggy sticks, you will need the following ingredients:
Start by gathering all the ingredients listed above. The only preparation needed is to place the beef mince into a bowl.
For every kilogram of beef mince, add the following seasonings:
You will need a jerky gun to shape your Twiggy sticks. If you don’t have one, you can find them at local hardware stores. For this recipe, a jerky gun can be purchased for around $12.50.
Cut the nozzle hole to your desired size, typically around 15 mm, and fill the tube with the seasoned beef mince.
Once the jerky gun is filled, squeeze the mixture out onto wire racks. There’s no need to push the sticks into the rack; just let them fall naturally for easier removal later.
For this recipe, we will be using a Zed Grills 700E XL pellet smoker. Set the smoker to a temperature of 74°C (165°F) and fill it with your choice of pellets. The smoker allows you to set the desired smoke output, which is perfect for this recipe.
Once the smoker reaches the desired temperature, place the racks of jerky sticks on the bottom cooking grate and close the lid. After one hour, swap the racks to ensure even cooking. At this point, the internal temperature of the sticks should be around 54°C (129°F).
After two hours, check the jerky sticks again. They should have a nice color and some shrinkage. The internal temperature should be around 65°C (149°F). To finish cooking, increase the smoker temperature to 85°C (185°F) and let them smoke for another hour.
After three hours of smoking, check the internal temperature of the jerky sticks. They should reach 74°C (165°F). Remove them from the smoker and let them cool for about 10 minutes.
Once cooled, you can cut the jerky sticks into smaller pieces for easier storage. It’s recommended to store most of them in a container in the freezer, while keeping a small amount in the fridge for daily snacking. This way, you can enjoy your homemade Twiggy sticks fresh every day.
Making Twiggy sticks at home is a rewarding process that results in a delicious snack without the harmful additives found in store-bought options. With just a few ingredients and a pellet smoker, you can create a tasty treat that is perfect for late-night cravings or as a protein-packed snack. Enjoy your homemade jerky sticks!
