Halloween is just around the corner, and for many it means that we all head to the local store to buy candy for all the ghost and goblins that will come knocking on our doors Halloween night. But wait, before you head to the store let me tell you about another option that I think all the kids will like.

Beefy Jerky including Beef Jerky Sticks.

Yes, you read that right. Why not pass out beef jerky to all the kids!

Beef jerky is a healthy, hunger-satisfying protein for everyone. The drying process is beneficial in a couple of ways: it requires getting rid of excess fat (as it could go bad without refrigeration) so you’re left with a low-fat product, and the water lost concentrates the protein in the meat to nearly double its amount in the same portion of uncured meat. Beef jerky also has healthy dose of zinc and iron in it. Snackers are turning to jerky as a satisfying alternative to munchies like chips or bars.

Beef jerky comes in many handy options like: sticks, slaps and pieces.

Our families’ choice of Beef Jerky/ Beef Jerky Sticks (Yes, we voted!):

Centennial Cuts Beef Stick- “Sustainably raised Premium Beef. Born, raised and harvested in Colorado – handled with care by Colorado employees from day 1 – all the way to your plate!” (Give all their products a try! They are amazing.) Available at www.centennialcuts.com.

Fat Joe’s Jerky- “Our regular beef jerky is seasoned, marinated, smoked, and dried to perfection before packaging. It has a small amount of Red pepper for heat but not much at all.” (We loved the Original but the Mild was also amazing.) Available at www.fatjoesjerky.com.

Circle L’s Homemade Jerky- Cody does a fine job in making our own jerky. This is what he does: he marinates a beef eye of round roast (to tell you the truth thou, he has used all beef cuts including hamburger). His marinating sauce contains soy sauce, black pepper, and brown sugar, Chugwater Chili spice, and Lowry’s Seasoned Salt. (He sometimes adds red pepper for some heat.) He slices it thin, and lets it dry out in the oven at 160˚ F for 6-8 hours. Homemade jerky technically lasts for about three months (we store it in the refrigerator), but you can freeze it indefinitely until you’re ready to eat it.

In preparation for Halloween night, I am suggesting to you all to try something a little different this year. When your trick-or-treaters arrive, they will be thankful for the healthy, protein filled snack.

Once the night comes to a close, give yourself a pat on the back – you gave your trick-or-treaters a happy (and healthy!) Halloween treat and you are helping the beef community out.

Happy Halloween from the Circle L!

Lastly, if my “Trick or Beefy Treat” post helped you out an any way, make sure you share it by clicking those funny looking social media buttons.