This has been on my mind for a while....
Just felt a bit silly to post it.....
Ah well- here goes....

Does anybody else feel the need to really chew HARD on a food? Like beef jerky kind of hard.

I wish I could get it here in Ireland....

Any ideas on what to substitute for chewiness?
Sinking my teeth into something like that makes me feel less stressed, quite satisfied and happy.
Gummibears (winegums) and Toffee is just too tempting...

Does anyone make their own jerky- how do you do it and what meat do you use??

PS: pre Genotype diet I used to love to chew on hard rye bread heels (first & last 'slice' of a loaf), just thinking about them makes my mouth water  

yes I love the ends of rye bread.  

You can use any meat you like for jerky.


I would get a dehydrator, they are great. for fruit as well

http://www.dadamo.com/typebase4/recipedepictor7x.cgi?161

Yes hard, chewy foods are important. Nuts help, or dried fruits.    


Could one not just use a toaster size oven and dry on lowest heat over night- rub some salt o draw the water out.. >

Would tin foil under it be hazardous to the backing?  

Some raw veggies work okay.

I use rutabaga and it helps. Jerky is a good idea though.  

I had to go work.  I read up on the jerky making.  

Temps for drying  (150 to 175 F) Don't let it rise above 175F  Turn the meat at least once, the process should take about 4 to 6 hours. Oven will work.

You'll know that it's done when it bends before breaking. Let it cool before testing, as it will seem more flexible than it really is while it's still warm. It is better to have jerky a bit overdry than underdry.

Cut the meat on the bias

Ugh, I can't stand chewy foods.  Years ago, when I ate powerbars, I always felt like my jaw would unhinge when I chewed them.  Little did I know that I had TMJ...  I'm sure that's why I have such an aversion to chewy foods.  My DH on the other hand, LOVES jerky & anything crunchy or chewy!