Homemade Fish Jerky (Sweet & Spicy) – Oven or Dehydrator

Make your own delicious fish jerky at home with this easy recipe! Whether you prefer the oven or a food dehydrator, this sweet and spicy jerky is made with lean white fish like cod or tilapia, marinated in soy sauce, honey, and spices for maximum flavor. A perfect high-protein, low-fat snack for hiking, road trips, or healthy snacking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb firm white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, snapper, halibut)
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp liquid smoke (optional, for smoky flavor)

Directions

1. 1. Prep the Fish:
2. Pat the fish dry. Slice into thin strips (¼ inch thick). Remove any bones. Thinner strips dry faster.
3. 2. Make the Marinade:
4. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and liquid smoke. Mix well.
5. 3. Marinate the Fish:
6. Place fish strips in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour in the marinade and refrigerate for 6–12 hours, flipping halfway through.
7. 4. Dry the Fish:
8. Oven Method:
9. Preheat oven to 170°F (or lowest setting).
10. Place strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
11. Prop oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon for airflow.
12. Dry for 4–6 hours until firm and leathery.
13. Dehydrator Method:
14. Arrange strips on dehydrator trays without overlapping.
15. Dry at 145°F for 6–8 hours or until jerky is dry but flexible.
16. 5. Cool & Store:
17. Let cool completely. Store in airtight container or vacuum seal. Keeps 1 week at room temp, 3–4 weeks refrigerated.