Armour dried beef, also known as chipped beef, is a convenient and tasty shelf-stable food item enjoyed by many. However, opening the jar can be tricky, as the vacuum seal and tight lid are designed to keep the beef fresh and shelf-stable.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the steps and techniques for easily opening an Armour dried beef jar. We’ll also provide tips on storing and enjoying dried beef once you’ve got the jar open.
Why Armour Dried Beef Jars Are Difficult to Open
Armour dries and packages their beef using a specialized process that removes most of the moisture This allows the beef slices to be shelf-stable without refrigeration
To keep oxygen and contaminants out, Armour seals the glass jars with a tight metal lid and vacuum seal. This tight seal ensures freshness but makes the jars notoriously difficult to open by hand.
Twisting too aggressively can cause the lid to bind up and stick. Older jars may also develop rust between the metal lid and glass that causes them to resist opening. Have no fear, the techniques below will have you enjoying dried beef in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Opening Armour Dried Beef
1. Check for damage
Before attempting to open, inspect the jar for any damage or rust around the lid. Look to see if the safety button on the lid is popped up, which indicates a compromised seal.
If you see any of these issues, it’s best to use a new jar. Trying to open a damaged jar often makes it harder and could cause injury.
2. Run the lid under hot water
Run the lid under hot tap water for 30-60 seconds. The heat will cause the metal lid to expand slightly, breaking the tight vacuum seal. Dry the lid thoroughly before attempting to open.
3. Tap the lid
Use a rubber mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan to firmly tap around the lid, This will help break the seal just like the hot water method
4. Wrap the lid for grip
Wrap the lid with a dish towel or rubber glove to improve grip and provide friction when twisting. The added texture helps provide torque when turning the lid.
5. Twist and turn
Finally, firmly grasp the lid with your wrapped hand. Place the jar on a towel or other soft surface to avoid slipping.
Twist the lid about 1/4 turn and then reverse direction and go another 1/4 turn. Repeat this back and forth motion while applying firm downward pressure.
After a few turns, you’ll hear the vacuum seal pop. Keep twisting until the lid is completely free.
6. Pry under the lid
If you just can’t get the lid to budge, slide a butter knife under the lip and gently pry upwards. This should break the seal. Be gentle to avoid damaging the glass jar.
Helpful Tools for Opening Armour Jars
Beyond makeshift solutions like towels and rubber gloves, there are specialized tools to help open stubborn jars:
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Jarkey: This inexpensive plastic tool wedges under the lid and pops up to break the seal. No twisting required.
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RoboTwist: An automated electric jar opener. Just place on top and press a button. Great for those with hand pain.
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Counter mounted openers: These attach below cabinets and use leverage to pop lids off with ease. Helpful for kitchens that frequently open stubborn jars.
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Gripper pads: These textured rubber pads provide extra grip to help you twist off the lid. Can be washed and reused.
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Wide mouth lid wrench: Designed to grab hold of stubborn wide mouth lids and allow you to safely twist them off.
Investing in one of these tools can make opening jars effortless. They also reduce hand strain and the risk of injury.
Tips for Properly Storing Armour Dried Beef
Once you’ve conquered the jar, it’s important to properly store the dried beef to maintain freshness as long as possible:
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Keep unused portions in the original jar and refrigerate after opening. This prevents air exposure.
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If transferring to a new container, ensure it is airtight to block oxygen. Glass storage containers work best.
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Use opened dried beef within 1 week for best quality and taste. Freeze for longer storage.
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Check for mold periodically. Discard if any black or green fuzz develops.
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Do not rinse before use, as this introduces moisture that can make it spoil faster.
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Freeze unused portions in freezer bags if you don’t plan to use within a week. Thaw in the refrigerator before using frozen dried beef.
Following proper storage methods will keep your dried beef fresh and flavorful after opening the pesky jar.
Enjoying Armour Dried Beef in Creative Ways
Armour dried beef is very versatile and can add intense umami flavor beyond just sandwiches and snacks. Here are some unique and delicious ways to enjoy Armour dried beef:
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Dice and add to stews, egg dishes, pasta sauces, or omelets for a hit of meaty flavor.
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Coarsely grind in a food processor and use in place of ground beef in tacos and chili.
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Mix with cream cheese and spices for an easy dip or sandwich spread.
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Fry lightly in oil until crisp to make homemade beef chips for snacking.
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Roll up with cream cheese, pickles, and olives in a little appetizer bite.
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Toss shreds into your favorite mac and cheese recipe for added richness.
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Make homemade chipped beef gravy to pour over biscuits, toast, or mashed potatoes.
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Stir into canned potato or tuna salad recipes for extra protein.
With some imagination and skillful seasoning, you can make dried beef the star of many types of savory dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Armour Dried Beef
Here are answers to some common questions about enjoying Armour dried beef:
**How long does opened dried beef last in