Jerky

Back in ancient civilizations, when humans had to find ways to survive during times of food scarcity, nomadic tribes such as Native Americans, Incas, and African tribes sought methods to preserve meat for longer periods. Fresh meat couldn't be stored, and hunting was particularly difficult during harsh winters. Thus, they needed to find ways to preserve food to sustain themselves through these challenging times.

The Origin of Jerky: Ancient Tribes' Food Preservation Wisdom

For this reason, they discovered that drying meat and adding salt could preserve it for long journeys or severe winters. They would slice meat into thin strips and dry it under the sun or over a fire. This preservation technique allowed them to carry a valuable food source wherever they went.

Historically, these dried meats were called Charqui in the Quechuan language of the Incas, meaning to pull or cut into long strips. Over time, it became known as Jerky. In these early periods, it was commonly made from the meat of llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, buffalo, and bison, among others.

The Spread of Jerky to the Western World

Later, when the first Europeans arrived in the New World, they observed Native Americans drying meat for future consumption. They immediately recognized that this preservation method would be highly beneficial for Europeans. They requested Native Americans to teach them everything, from how to cut and prepare the meat into long strips to the entire process of drying and the various seasonings used for marinating, with the intention of spreading these techniques back to the European continent.

With increased trade routes and explorations, European explorers like Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand Magellan carried jerky across oceans, introducing it to other regions, leading to its global dissemination.

Jerky in the Modern Era: A Popular Snack and Nutritional Powerhouse

In the present day, jerky has transcended its origins as a survival food to become a globally cherished snack, embracing a place in gourmet food culture. With a wider variety of meats availablefrom beef, turkey, chicken, and pork to even more exotic meats like deer and ostrichjerky has become a widely popular snack worldwide.

Beyond its delicious taste, jerky also offers numerous nutritional benefits. It is a good source of protein, low in fat and carbohydrates, making it popular among fitness enthusiasts and those seeking high-protein foods. Moreover, jerky is a convenient, portable snack that can be carried anywhere: hiking, climbing, boating, or even into space, where it remains an excellent food source for astronauts.

Thai Jerky: The Similarities and Differences from Moo Sawan

The journey of jerky through history is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient humans, who found ways to survive through food preservation. Jerky has evolved into a highly desired snack for modern people. Today, jerky is developed in many forms and flavors, varying by regional culture. In Thailand, there's a similar dried meat called Moo Sawan, sometimes referred to as Thai Jerky.

However, despite their similarities, jerky and Thai Moo Sawan differ in terms of consumption. Jerky can be made from any type of meat and eaten immediately as a convenient snack. But our local Moo Sawan is mostly made from pork and usually needs to be fried or cooked before consumption.