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Winter Homesteading Update: Freezing Temperatures, Homemade Jerky, and Seasonal Challenges

Winter has officially arrived in New Jersey, and the freezing temperatures are already testing the resilience of the Undique homestead. Life on a homestead during winter is never dull, and it’s a season that demands preparation, adaptability, and a touch of creativity. Here’s a glimpse into how we’re navigating the cold, managing our quail setup, and even enjoying a little homemade comfort food—jerky!


The Winter Chill: Challenges on the Homestead

Winter brings with it a host of challenges for homesteaders. Here in New Jersey, freezing temperatures mean taking extra steps to protect both animals and infrastructure. Our quail setup—which is currently undergoing an exciting upgrade—requires vigilant monitoring to ensure the birds stay comfortable and healthy despite the cold.

Key Winter Challenges:

  • Water Freezing: Keeping water lines and reservoirs from freezing is a daily task. We’ve implemented insulated systems and regularly check for ice buildup.
  • Maintaining Quail Health: Extra bedding and proper ventilation are crucial to keeping the quail warm without exposing them to drafts.
  • Heating the Homestead: With our fireplace roaring and our solar panels pulling their weight, we’re managing to stay cozy indoors despite the biting cold outside.



Making Jerky: A Winter Staple

Winter is the perfect time to stock up on shelf-stable snacks, and homemade jerky is a favorite on our homestead. It’s not just delicious but also a great way to preserve protein for long-term use.

The Jerky-Making Process:

  1. Selecting the Meat: We prefer lean cuts like beef or venison. This ensures the jerky lasts longer and has the best texture.
  2. Seasoning the Strips: A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne makes for a classic flavor. You can get creative by adding soy sauce, Worcestershire, or your favorite spices.
  3. Drying the Meat: Using a dehydrator or oven set to a low temperature, we slowly remove moisture until the strips are perfectly chewy.
  4. Storing for Winter: Once cooled, we store the jerky in airtight containers, ready to fuel us through outdoor chores and cozy nights by the fire.

Reflections on Winter Homesteading

Winter on the homestead is both challenging and rewarding. The freezing temperatures test our systems, but they also highlight the resilience and resourcefulness that homesteading fosters. There’s a unique beauty to the season—the stillness of snow-covered landscapes, the satisfaction of a well-stocked pantry, and the warmth of a home powered by thoughtful planning.

This season also serves as a reminder of why we embrace this lifestyle. It’s about self-sufficiency, adapting to nature’s rhythms, and finding joy in the simple things—like a warm fire and a bite of homemade jerky.


How Are You Preparing for Winter?

We’d love to hear how you tackle winter’s challenges on your own homestead. Do you have any tips for keeping livestock comfortable in the cold or favorite winter recipes to share? Drop a comment below or connect with us on Undique.us. Let’s keep the conversation going and support each other through the season!

Stay warm and stay inspired,

Christian & the Undique Homesteading Team

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