Mhmmmm. Dehydrated meats sound like something from a NASA rocket ship, but in reality, they’re some of America’s most popular foods. Beef jerky, anyone? People love to feast on delicious jerky.
But did you know that when the beef jerky craving hits you hard that you don’t have to pay marked up supermarket prices? Making jerky at home is simple. Chop some meat, marinate it, and…then what? Dehydrating meat at home means buying a dehydrator.
Dehydrators simply dry out whatever you put inside them. Meats, fruits, and vegetables are all excellent candidates. Though not all dehydrators are created equal. If you want to start creating your own delicious snacks, stick with us for the ultimate dehydrator showdown: Cabela dehydrators vs Excalibur dehydrators.
Let’s get started with Cabelas vs Excalibur dehydrator!
What is a Food Dehydrator?
Definition and Purpose
A food dehydrator is a kitchen appliance designed to remove moisture from food, preserving it for later consumption. The primary purpose of a food dehydrator is to dry food at a low temperature, preventing bacterial growth and retaining the nutritional value of the food. This process allows for the preservation of fruits, vegetables, meats, and herbs, making it an excellent tool for health-conscious individuals, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who want to enjoy their favorite foods year-round.
Cabela Dehydrators vs Excalibur Dehydrators
When it comes to choosing a food dehydrator, two popular brands often come to mind: Cabela and Excalibur. Both brands offer high-quality dehydrators, but there are some key differences to consider. Cabela dehydrators are known for their affordability and compact design, making them an excellent choice for those with limited kitchen space. Excalibur dehydrators, on the other hand, are renowned for their durability and versatility, offering a wide range of features and accessories. Ultimately, the choice between Cabela and Excalibur depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Cabela Dehydrator vs Excalibur Dehydrator
Cabela and Excalibur are two leaders in dehydrator technology. Dehydrated food, a key aspect of food preservation, retains nutritional benefits and can be used in various recipes, making these dehydrators invaluable.
Both brands offer a selection of dehydrators suited for different needs. Some are large, some are small, some are cheap, and some are expensive. You need to know what dehydrator works best for your needs.
Cabela’s 160-Liter Commercial-Grade Food Dehydrator
Cabela’s top of the line dehydrator boasts a 24-tray system with smart heat monitors and air intake that help regulate internal temperature. A 1,600-watt heater and 360-degree air circulation ensure the same temperature throughout, keeping your food drying quickly and evenly.
This model comes with an adjustable temperature knob, timer, and the actual temperature in the dehydrator. The pre-heating setting helps cut down on drying time while the drain reservoir makes clean up a breeze.
This model is an excellent home-grade dehydrator from Cabela’s. The temperature adjusts from 80°F to 160°F to help hone in on the best temperature for your food. A rear-mounted 800-watt heater powers the unit while a fan keeps the air circulating evenly.
A fold-down door with a magnetic closure and clear acrylic widow work together to maintain a consistent internal temperature and eliminate the need to rotate your trays. This model includes a reference guide that details temperatures and times for different types of food.
Excalibur 10-Tray Dehydrator w/ Digital Control and Heating Element
The Excalibur 10-tray dehydrator is the counterpart to the Cabela’s 160-liter. This model features 10 trays with two different drying zones. Two temperature settings are available, one for each zone. The temperatures themselves are adjustable from 85°F – 165°F. You can even make your own jerky at home with this model, customizing the drying process to create homemade snacks.
Hyperwave™ Patented Technology and Parallex® Horizontal Air Flow help keep the dehydrating process even. Each drying space has its own fan and timer, allowing you to dehydrate two different types of food during one cycle.
Product Comparison
Cabela Dehydrator: a 600-watt dehydrator with 10 full trays of healthy homemade edibles at once, with a color-coded, easy-to-use thermostat.
Excalibur Dehydrator: a deluxe non-timer heavy-duty family model with 15 square feet of tray space, a heavy-duty 7” fan, and an adjustable thermostat.
Both dehydrators are capable of producing high-quality dried foods, including beef jerky and fruit leather. The Excalibur Dehydrator has a reputation for producing consistent results and is a popular choice among dehydrator enthusiasts. The Cabela Dehydrator is a great option for those looking for a more affordable and compact model.
Design and Build Quality
The Excalibur Dehydrator has a sturdy and durable design, with a heavy-duty fan and adjustable thermostat. The Cabela Dehydrator has a more compact design, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or those with limited counter space. Both dehydrators have dishwasher-safe trays for easy cleaning.
User Experience
Both dehydrators are easy to use and come with simple and intuitive interfaces. The Excalibur Dehydrator has a reputation for being quiet and producing minimal noise during operation. The Cabela Dehydrator is a great option for those looking for a more affordable and compact model.
Key Features to Consider
Temperature Control and Capacity
When selecting a food dehydrator, there are several key features to consider. Two of the most important factors are temperature control and capacity.
Temperature control is crucial for achieving the perfect dryness level for your food. Look for a dehydrator with a temperature range of at least 135°F to 155°F, allowing you to dry a variety of foods, including beef jerky, fruit leather, and herbs. Some dehydrators also offer a precise temperature control, which is ideal for drying sensitive foods like herbs and flowers.
Capacity is another essential factor to consider. If you plan to dry large quantities of food, look for a dehydrator with multiple trays and a high capacity. Some dehydrators offer expandable trays, allowing you to add extra trays as needed. This feature is particularly useful for making large batches of beef jerky or drying multiple types of food at once.
Other key features to consider include:
- Heating element: Look for a dehydrator with a rear fan, which provides even heat distribution and prevents hot spots.
- Extra trays: Consider a dehydrator with extra trays, allowing you to dry multiple types of food at once.
- Dishwasher safe: Look for a dehydrator with dishwasher-safe trays and parts, making cleaning a breeze.
- Fruit leather: If you plan to make fruit leather, look for a dehydrator with a specific fruit leather setting or a temperature range that allows for low-temperature drying.
- Drying cycle: Consider a dehydrator with a programmable drying cycle, allowing you to set the perfect drying time for your food.
By considering these key features, you can find the perfect food dehydrator for your needs and enjoy delicious, healthy, and preserved food all year round.
Choosing a Dehydrator for Making Jerky
Choosing a dehydrator from our list always comes down to what you’re looking for in a unit. The Cabela’s Six-Tray makes a good starter model while the Excalibur 10-Tray works well for people who want complete control over the dehydrator process.
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of dehydrated foods. Using air-tight containers, such as canning jars, can effectively keep moisture out and prolong the shelf life of your dehydrated items.
So which dehydrator reigns supreme in the Cabela dehydrators vs Excalibur fight? You’ll have to cast that vote with your wallet. Dehydrated foods are excellent for food preservation and culinary applications. They reduce moisture to prevent spoilage, making them easier to store and transport. Dried foods also extend shelf life and are convenient for storage. Additionally, making dry beef jerky at home offers numerous benefits, including better control over ingredients and flavor. But in the meantime, check out our list of dehydrator-specific recipes to get your mouth watering.
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