Exotic jerky is a savory snack made from dried meat that has been seasoned to taste delicious. The word “jerky” comes from the Quechua word “charqui” which means “dried meat.”
Jerky was originally made by Native Americans and early settlers out of beef or buffalo, but these days it can be made with any type of protein: chicken, lamb, pork, turkey etc. We’ve written about the best cuts of meat for jerky here.
Some people enjoy eating exotic jerky as an appetizer before dinner while others eat it as a post-workout snack to refuel their muscles.
There are different types of exotic jerks for everyone! Here’s a few off the well-trodden path of your grocery store Slim Jim’s and Jack Link’s (though they may be a bit more expensive but still amazing).
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Flavored Beef Jerky
Beef is the “standard” meat for jerky, but there are plenty of exotic flavors that go beyond black pepper, garlic, onion, or teriyaki.
Garlic Black Pepper Flavor
Black pepper adds a bold kick to this jerky, especially since it’s made of mushrooms.
Lemon-Pepper Flavor
Classic lemon and pepper flavors come together for an exciting twist on beef jerky.
Cajun Flavor
What’s more exotic than Cajun spices? Nothing! This jerky has an extra kick to it that you won’t find in your average beef or turkey jerkies. Poultry Jerkys Chicken jerkies are some of the most popular types of jerky that you can find, and there are plenty of exotic flavors to choose from.
Honey-Chipotle Flavor
This honey barbecue flavored jerk is spicy with a mild smokiness provided by the chipotles added.
Sriracha Flavor
Sriracha + honey = an instant classic. This jerky has a nice little kick to it with some heat provided by the sriracha sauce, but it’s also sweetened up with honey to give you that perfect balance.
Asian Spice Flavor
- MOUTHWATERING BEEF AND TURKEY JERKY IN A GOURMET SNACK — Indulge in Think Jerky's healthy and flavorful jerky goodness that is crafted by award-winning Chefs to produce satisfying mouthwatering snacks that are made of 100% pasture-raised/free-range jerky so you can enjoy it without guilt.
- HEALTHY LOW-FAT, LOW-CALORIE AND LOW-CARB JERKY PERFECT FOR YOUR ACTIVE LIFESTYLE — Each bag of Think Jerky's jerky is low in calories and fat! We give you only the finest cuts of beef and turkey that are hormone-free, antibiotic-free, gluten-free, nitrate-free, preservative-free and non-GMO.
- GREAT TASTING, HIGH PROTEIN AND ALL-NATURAL PALEO SNACK — Stop settling for boring protein bars and shakes! These high protein jerky snacks will satisfy your taste buds and supercharge you after workouts while minimizing your sugar and salt intake.
- DELICIOUS CHEF-CRAFTED JERKY — This jerky is a culinary masterpiece crafted by Food Network hosts, Michelin-Star winners and James Beard Award winners to ensure you are delighted by the robust flavors and quality in every bite that have been slow-cooked and seasoned to perfection.
- AWARD-WINNING JERKY SNACK MADE IN THE USA — Treat yourself to our highly acclaimed healthy jerky snacks that have been named “Healthiest Jerky” by SELF Magazine, “Jerky for Foodies” by Men’s Health and “Best Jerky” by Eat This, Not That! All our products are produced from only the finest ingredients and made in the USA.
This chicken jerky is flavored with an assortment of Indian spices, including garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, black pepper, garam masala powder etc.
Alligator Jerky
Alligator jerky is just one of the many types of exotic jerks you can find. Alligator meat is very similar to chicken or beef, but it has a stronger, gamier flavor that people either love or hate.
You may have heard before that alligators are tough and require long cooking times for tenderization. But in truth, alligator is about as tender as any other kind of meat when prepared correctly. It only tastes tougher because people aren’t used to its flavor (also, its distant cousin, the alligator gar).
If you’ve never tried it before, give alligator jerky a try the next time you’re in your local grocery store!
- Popular item - stock up and save!
- Don't be fooled by imitation Alligator Jerky and Alligator Sticks on the market, try the real deal - made from 100% Alligator Meat and NOT mixed with any fillers like beef or pork. World Famous, Small-Batch Jerky. All natural, no preservatives, no added MSG, no growth hormones, no antibiotics, no junk! Just 100% goodness.
- Made in the U.S.A. - You should demand that the jerky you buy is made in America!
- 100% Whole Muscle Alligator - a bayou blend and southern favorite that's sure to please, makes for an awesome gift item too
- USDA Inspected
Wild Boar Jerky
Wild boar has the same texture as pork and is leaner than beef. Wild boar jerky can be sweetened up with sugar, but also has natural hickory flavor. Wild boars are an invasive species, so there is no limit on hunting them in most states. You can likely track some down even if you aren’t a hunter.
- Meat Maniac Original Venison Jerky (3oz)
- Premium Quality Venison raised on the natural farmlands of New Zealand. Great Venison flavor without the strong game taste. Truly a great taste you will remember and appreciate.
- 100% Venison (no fillers)
- Meat Maniac Jerky is made fresh with no preservatives or MSG added. Our superior flavor comes from our seasoning and marinating process.
- Great Gift for ANY Occasion! Father's Day, Mother's Day, Valentines Day, B-Day, Christmas, Halloween, Easter & Care Packages!
Ostrich Jerky
The ostrich is a large, flightless bird. It is native to Africa, while the North American variety was introduced by Europeans to create new sources of meat. Ostrich meat can be either tender or tough depending on how it’s cooked. For jerky, it needs to be heavily dried and then seasoned with spices. Ostrich jerky tastes incredibly meaty, making it a favorite among carnivores.
The greatest benefit of the ostrich are that they are raised for this purpose in many countries around the world, making them very easy to find! They are also one of the leanest meats, making them perfect for people who are health-conscious. It has a very mild flavor which works well with bolder flavors, which makes it great for people who don’t like very strong flavors.
- World Famous, Small-Batch Jerky. All natural, no preservatives, no added MSG, no growth hormones, no antibiotics, no junk! Just 100% goodness.
- Made in the U.S.A. - You should demand that the jerky you buy is made in America!
- This is our Time-Tested Original Recipe. Our most requested flavor!
- 100% Whole muscle jerky proudly made of farm raised ostrich
Elk Jerky
The elk is a large, deer-like creature native to North America. The meat from the elk is a very dark red in color and has a significantly different flavor from beef or pork. This jerky has a strong, rich flavor that goes well with other spices like chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Includes 3 bags of All-Natural Original Elk Jerky
- World Famous, Small-Batch Jerky. All natural, no preservatives, no added MSG, no growth hormones, no antibiotics, no junk! Just 100% goodness.
- Made in the U.S.A. - You should demand that the jerky you buy is made in America!
- 100% Whole Muscle Elk
- USDA Inspected
Pork Jerky
It may not really be “exotic” but like beef, pork is extremely versatile and can be paired with really exotic flavors. Pork Jerky can be dried or smoked, with the most common flavors being teriyaki, garlic black pepper, lemon-pepper, and Cajun.
- 2 OZ Bag of Pork Barrel Old-Fashioned Maple Uncured Bacon Jerky
- Pork Barrel BBQ Old Fashioned Maple Bacon Jerky is the perfect marriage of smoke and sweetness.
- This jerky incorporates the sweet taste of maple and brown sugar with the smoky perfection of thick-cut, slow-cooked strips of bacon.
- A Good Source of Protein, No Nitrites or Nitrates except those naturally occuring in celery powder
- As seen on Shark Tank. It's bacon, but better.
Kangaroo Jerky
Kangaroo jerky is a lean, protein-packed snack that is perfect for the health-conscious eater. It’s made from a good cut of kangaroo meat, which is low in fat and high in protein. It can be “dried” or “smoked,” and the most popular flavors are teriyaki, garlic black pepper, and lemon-pepper.
- High Protein
- Low Carb
- Low Fat
- Individually wrapped
Turkey Jerky
Turkeys are native to North America, but nowadays they’re also domesticated all around the world because they’re such a popular food (similar to geese). The best turkey jerky is made from the dark meat, which is low in fat and high in protein. You can “dry” or “smoke” it, and the most popular flavors are teriyaki, garlic black pepper, and lemon-pepper.
- BASIL-INFUSED BILTONG TURKEY JERKY WITH LEMON & BLACK PEPPER: The flavor revolution is near: Fowl Capone is here. This healthy turkey jerky is Cage-Free and All-Natural. Starts tender and smoky with a slight lemon zing, then smolders the tongue with black pepper jerky seasoning.
- 16G OF PROTEIN PER BAG: Fowl Capone is ideal for your active lifestyle. Ideal for supercharging your next triathlon, hike, or diamond heist. Fowl Capone may be guilty, but you don’t have to feel guilty for indulging in these healthy protein snacks. This Turkey Jerky is merely 6g of sugar per serving (12g per bag), gluten free, low carb, and low calorie.
- 100% ALL NATURAL AND ALL AMERICAN: Fowl Capone is a 100%, all-American made in the USA product, sourced only with high-quality, clean and natural ingredients. At only 70 calories per serving, Righteous Felon turkey jerky is antibiotic and growth hormone free, and low sugar.
- RESEALABLE TURKEY JERKY PACKS: Take this turkey jerky on the go with the small, travel size resealable bags. Comes in a bulk 3 pack so you can stock up on a healthier, low fat turkey biltong alternative to standard beef jerky.
- REDUCED SUGAR, REDUCED GUILT: Fowl Capone turkey jerky bulk snack packs also come in Truffle-O Soldier and Bourbon Franklin flavors. Seasoned to perfection with basil and pepper, designed to fuel outdoor adventures and satisfy cravings for big flavor.
Antelope (Biltong) Jerky
Antelope jerky is a type of jerky that’s made from antelope meat, or biltong. It’s usually prepared with a strong spice mixture including paprika, salt, sugar, and garlic powder. It needs a lot of time to marinate in the refrigerator before being consumed, but it’s worth the wait!
- STRYVE AIR-DRIED BEEF STICKS - Stryve Air-Dried Beef Sticks are 100% beef with no sugar, MSG, nitrates, preservatives and are gluten free. All natural. All flavorful.
- MORE PROTEIN. NO ADDITIVES. WHOA. - Stryve Air-Dried Beef Sticks are always air dried to lock in flavor and nutrients. Boasting 14g of protein in each serving means it has up to 50% more protein than jerky sticks. You'll never want to go back!
- ZERO SUGAR. ALL FUN. - We air dry our sticks just long enough to ensure every bite is mouthwateringly, deliciously tender. Delivering 0g sugar and 0g carbs in every serving!
- GLUTEN-FREE. DAIRY-FREE. SUGAR-FREE. EXTRA FLAVOR-FULL. - Made with a few simple ingredients and full of flavor that's high in protein, has zero sugar, zero carbs, and is made from nothing artificial. Super super keto and other diets-friendly (but also just super delicious).
- EASY, CONVENIENT & MEAL PREP-FREE - Training for a triathlon? Commuting to work? Carpooling kids between practices? Our colorful, portable packs are ready to rip, wherever you are. Because hunger doesn't hit only when it's convenient. Grab n go! No meal prep needed!
Southeast Asian Jerky
This exotic jerk is typically made from beef, pork, chicken, or water buffalo. The Southeast Asian version can be spicy with ingredients like teriyaki sauce. Typical flavors include soy sauce and lemon pepper seasoning. As for preparation methods, it may be dried or smoked before consumption.
- Singapore-Style fire-grilled Bak Kwa (aka jerky) is a popular sweet semi-dried meat snack from the Asia-Pacific. Our jerky are made from three-generation-old family recipes. We use the same traditional age-old slow dry technique and labor-intensive process to prepare the meat, then slowly fire grilled individually to perfection by hand for that bold BBQ taste, used as high protein snacks or add to your favorite instant noodles, sandwiches and more.
- Fragrant Jerky's spicy flavor beef jerky is sweet & salty taste, medium level of spiciness, natural smoky BBQ flavor from the fire grilling process. We use 100% natural ingredients and are GMO-free. Our beef jerky are made from fresh USDA-inspected whole cuts of the extra lean Angus Beef eye of round.
- Each order is freshly grilled to order, then shipped by Expedited Priority Mail to assure the finest quality. They are never prepackaged and never stored in a warehouse for weeks or months. We grill then ship your orders within 48 hours during business days, will arrive in 2 to 5 business days.
- Our products are made fresh daily at our USDA/FSIS-inspected commercial kitchen facility in Los Angeles.
- Singapore Bak Kwa has been voted #1 pork jerky in the World. Our jerky are three times Los Angeles Times "Handmade Gift" and food category winners.
Duck Jerky
Duck Jerky is created from the dark meat of a duck. It’s then “dried” or “smoked” to preserve it. The most popular flavor is teriyaki, but you can also enjoy garlic black pepper or lemon-pepper. There are duck jerky recipes readily available on the internet, so you don’t have to go hunting for one at your local grocery store! It’s also very economical for producers and commonly sold “for dogs.”
Salmon Jerky
Salmon jerky is made by drying or smoking either salmon fillets or salmon steaks. It tastes incredibly meaty, making it a favorite among carnivores. Another benefit of this jerky is that it’s low in fat and high in protein so it’s great for people who are looking to eat healthier. The best part about this kind of jerky is that it doesn’t have any effect on your conscience – perfect for pescatarians!. The flavors are subtle, which makes it perfect for people who don’t like very strong flavors.
- PROTEIN SNACK: a snack strip for when you're on the go featuring 100% wild caught salmon with 7 grams of protein per serving
- CONVENIENT: Grab a snack strip to keep you fueled as you're out running errands
- WILD CAUGHT: 100% wild caught salmon
- HEALTHY SNACK: Certified Gluten-Free, Paleo friendly
- CONTAINS: 10 Count Box of 0.8oz snack strips
Venison Jerky
Venison jerky is very similar to beef jerky in that it’s not “exotic” but is still exceptionally versatile. Venison is made by drying or smoking (like most types of jerky), and the most common flavors are teriyaki, garlic black pepper, or lemon-pepper. Venison Jerky is a relatively new type of- jerky that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Venison is the term for meat of deer, and it’s traditionally made by curing or drying, then seasoning with various spices like garlic, pepper, soy sauce, and vinegar. The most common flavor is teriyaki sauce.
- PROTEIN SNACK: a perfect snack strip for your pantry to grab when you're on the go featuring 100% grass-fed venison and beef with 8 grams of protein per serving
- CONVENIENT: Grab a snack strip to keep you fueled as you're out running errands
- GRASS-FED: EPIC only uses 100% grass-fed venison and beef for our Venison and Beef Strips
- HEALTHY SNACK: Certified Gluten-Free Keto Friendly, Whole30 approved, Paleo friendly
- BOX CONTAINS: 20 Count Box of 0.8 oz snack strips
Bison Jerky
Bison jerky is made of bison meat, which is low in fat and high in protein. The most common flavors are teriyaki, garlic black pepper, or lemon-pepper. This type of jerk can also be dried or smoked before it’s consumed. The best Bison Jerky maker, Native-owned Tanka Bar, also helps restore the grasslands and historic prairies of North America.
Also – check out yak jerky, which is similar in leanness and protein content.
- REAL FOOD BITES with a delicious smoky and slightly sweet flavor, made with grass fed bison and tart-sweet cranberries, more tender and moist than beef jerky
- WHOLE FOOD INGREDIENTS, only 70 calories, 7 grams of lean protein from grass fed bison raised on non-GMO grassland prairies
- HIGH PROTEIN snack fits nearly every diet lifestyle including Keto, Paleo, and Whole 30, and is Certified Gluten-Free, nitrites-free, MSG-free, hormone-free, dairy-free, soy-free, low-fat and 100% natural
- PORTABLE ENERGY source for endurance, top performance, and health, great for outdoor enthusiasts, hiking, busy moms and kids, atheletes, students, and pow wow dancers
- MADE IN THE USA by Native American Natural Foods, our products are based on the traditional Native American Lakota recipe for wasna and pemmican
Brisket Jerky
Brisket Jerky is a type of jerky that’s made from brisket meat (usually the flat cut, not points). Brisket Jerky is a type of jerky that’s dry or smoked before it’s consumed. The overall flavor is a dry, salty snack with a smell similar to roast beef. A good wood can add flavor to brisket.
- ALL NATURAL BRISKET: soft beef jerky, gourmet quality protein bites, made in USA from best quality, hand selected lean meat cuts
- HOT FLAVOR: mouthwatering, spicy beef jerky, with crushed pepper flakes and red peppers, satisfying savory snacks, healthy food you will crave
- HEALTHY SNACK: lean dried meat makes all natural protein, low carb snacks; excellent as keto food, low calorie snacks, supports healthy diet; gluten free, MSG free, nitrate & nitrite free, low sodium beef jerky
- BALANCED PORTION: healthy snacks, 8oz small batch jerky is a size you can use as individual portion or share; perfect as lunch food when you work hard, great for all day activities or as hiking snack, hunting and survival pack food
- BEST SNACK ON THE GO: tasty beef jerky gives you energy and makes great lunch snacks, or college food; non-perishable, perfect for travel snacks, hiking food or camping snacks
Wagyu Jerky
Wagyu Jerky is made from the finest cuts of beef which are then “dry” or “smoked” before being consumed. The common flavors are teriyaki, garlic black pepper, or lemon-pepper. Wagyu jerky is a high quality type of jerky that’s superior to beef jerky due to its high quality meat and less salty taste. It’s perfect for individuals who enjoy beef jerky but want something with a more delicate taste.
- PROTEIN SNACK: a snack strip for when you're on the go featuring 100% grass-fed wagyu beef with 6 grams of protein per serving
- CONVENIENT: Grab a snack strip to keep you fueled as you're out running errands
- GRASS-FED: 100% grass-fed wagyu beef
- HEALTHY SNACK: Certified Gluten-Free, Paleo friendly
- CONTAINS: 10 Count Box of 0.8oz snack strips
Goose Jerky
Goose Jerky is made by drying or smoking goose meat. The most common flavors are teriyaki, garlic black pepper, or lemon-pepper. Goose Jerky is a type of jerky that’s unlike any other because of its distinct flavor. It tastes like bacon, but with less saltiness. The best part about Goose Jerky is that it’s low in fat and high in protein – making it perfect for people who are on a diet.
Rabbit Jerky
Rabbit Jerky is made in America by curing or drying the rabbit meat to preserve it. The most popular flavors are teriyaki, garlic black pepper, or lemon-pepper. The flavor is not overpowering, so it’s perfect for people who don’t like strong flavors in their jerky. Rabbit Jerky can be consumed raw or cooked because it doesn’t have any cholesterol. The best part about this type of jerky is that it’s low in fat and high in protein – making it perfect for people who are on a diet.
- Newport Jeky Company Exotic Jerky
Snake Jerky
Snake Jerky is made with the finest snake meat available, so it’s both healthy and delicious. The meat is moist, tender, and has a mild flavor. Python is the most common species used for snake jerky.
- Newport Jeky Company Exotic Jerky
Trout Jerky
Trout jerky is made with the finest trout meat available. Trout jerky is a healthy alternative to other less nutritious types of jerky, and has a much lighter flavor. Trout jerky is much leaner than beef, but it still contains high levels of protein. The oily fish are seasoned with spices or seasonings before being dried into jerky form.
- DELICIOUSNESS IN A BAG - Marinated in a special sauce made by Texas Pitting & Grilling Smokehouse, our habanero honey jerky packs some bold flavors, texas sized heat. Our 100% handmade trout jerky has only pure natural goodness without any fishy aftertaste.
- TASTE OF TEXAS YEEHAW - Whether you are going to be craving a snack right in the middle of the night, want to jazz up your salad or get that extra bit of protein for your gains, habanero honey trout jerky by The Good Jerky is what you need. Combining the right amount of sweetness and spicy heat, this fish jerky will surely tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for another bite.
- GREAT ANYTIME AND ANYWHERE - Pack it for your family lunch, eat it after a workout for a quick protein boost, or munch on it while watching a movie. Ideal for all situations, it is packaged in a 2 oz bag. This seafood jerky must be refrigerated after opening and consumed within three days.
- NUTRITIOUS AND HEALTHY - Steelhead trout jerky is high in vitamin D, omega fatty acids and contains up to six grams of protein per serving. Why snack on empty calories when you can opt for a healthy substitute. Toss it in a salad, layer it in a sandwich, serve it on a charcuterie board or enjoy it as it is. The best to fish jerky for humans and a tastier, healthier alternative to red meat and poultry.
- RESPONSIBLY SOURCED - The Good Jerky sources its fish from high quality fisheries that follow strict eco friendly guidelines as an alternative to traditional fishing. To ensure that you receive great tasting, dried seafood jerky every time, we follow the strictest sourcing production and quality standards.
Next Steps
Jerky is a special treat no matter the time or day. Not only are the flavoring options nearly infinite, but the meat options are much more diverse than “standard” beef. Try something new today! And if you are making your own jerky at home, be sure to check out our guides to jerky slicers, guide to jerky dehydrators, and tried & true cuts for jerky.