Cowboy Flavor Jerky - Side Project Jerky

Cowboy Beef Jerky (2 oz)

Coffee and beef shouldn't work this well together, but here we are. Side Project Jerky's Cowboy starts with a balsamic and soy marinade that soaks deep into USDA Choice top round, then gets hit with a dry rub of roasted coffee and smoked paprika. The result tastes like burnt ends from a Texas smokehouse: sweet, smoky, earthy, and just a little bit dangerous.

The coffee comes from Rival Bros Coffee Roasters, a Philadelphia roastery run by Chef Jon Adams and Damien Pileggi. They use their Whistle & Cuss blend, a double-brewed espresso that adds depth without bitterness. Dark brown sugar builds a caramelized sweetness against the vinegar's tang, while oregano and garlic powder round out the savory backbone. Ten ingredients total. No nitrates. No MSG. No filler.

This is road trip jerky with a chef's resume. Tear into a bag on a long drive, pair it with a dark beer after work, or toss a few pieces onto a board next to sharp cheese and dried fruit for something unexpected. The coffee note makes it pair surprisingly well with a pour-over or cold brew if you want to go all in.

The Maker

Side Project Jerky is a Philadelphia-based operation founded by Marcos Espinoza, who has spent over a decade partnering with chefs to develop flavors inspired by specific places and cuisines. The Cowboy is a collaboration with Rival Bros Coffee Roasters, where Chef Jon Adams and Damien Pileggi brought their Whistle & Cuss espresso blend to the table to recreate the smoky, charred flavors of the Texas panhandle.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
USDA Choice Top Round, Soy Sauce, Balsamic Vinegar, Dark Brown Sugar, Rival Bros. Coffee, Smoked Paprika, Oregano, Garlic Powder, Cane Sugar, Kosher Salt.

FAQ

Does this jerky actually taste like coffee?
You'll pick up the earthy, roasted depth of the coffee, but it doesn't taste like you're drinking a cup. The coffee works as a savory layer alongside the smoked paprika and balsamic, closer to the bark on good burnt ends than a latte.

How tough or chewy is this jerky?
Side Project Jerky is made from USDA Choice top round and is tender enough to tear easily while still having satisfying chew. It's not the brittle, crunchy stuff you find at a gas station. Think pliable and meaty.

Is this jerky spicy?
Not spicy. The smoked paprika adds warmth and smokiness, not heat. The overall flavor profile leans sweet, smoky, and earthy. No burn.

Does this jerky contain allergens?
Yes. Contains soy (soy sauce). Gluten-free. No nitrates, no MSG, no artificial preservatives.

How should I store this jerky?
Shelf-stable in the sealed bag. Once opened, reseal tightly and consume within a few days for best texture and flavor. No refrigeration required before opening.