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The History of Beef jerky

Jerky was first introduced by the South American (Peru) native tribe called the Quechua (originally part of the ancient Inca Empire) as early as 1550. The product was known as Ch'arki.   The Indians and early settlers made jerky primarily from deer, elk or buffalo using salt (to prevent spoilage) and whatever spices they had. The meat was dried (cured) primarily in the sun. When the Spanish picked it up, the name eventually became known as Charqui.    North American Pioneers further evolved the process. Folks who ate jerky were generally Explorers, Cowboys, and Native Americans. The simplest method for drying meat was to string it on ropes and then hang it on the outside of the wagon cover ("hang...

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