Gaokeng Beef Jerky

Gaokeng beef jerky is a specialty of Kinmen. The jerky is made from yellow cattle beef that has been cured.

Gaokeng Beef has been in the beef product business for quite some time, consistently sourcing its beef from cattle raised locally in Kinmen. The area features Huangshan Mountain, where lush green pastures and clean, unpolluted spring water provide an ideal environment for raising quality cattle. The yellow cattle here also feed on the lees of premium sorghum liquor, resulting in tender, juicy meat with excellent texture. The brand enjoys an outstanding reputation.

Nutritional Value

1. Nourishes blood and boosts energy: Suitable for those with dull complexion, loss of rosy color, and cold hands and feet. High iron content is well absorbed.

2. Nourishes spleen and stomach: Beneficial for symptoms caused by weak spleen function such as abdominal bloating, loose stools, poor appetite, fatigue, and weakness. Warms the stomach and treats cold-related stomach issues. Neutralizes stomach acid and relieves stomach pain. Reduces inflammation and treats ulcers.

3. Strengthens muscles and bones: Fortifies tendons and improves circulation, helps recover from fatigue and soreness in the lower back and knees. Rich in vitamins and trace elements that aid calcium absorption and promote bone metabolism. Contains ample calcium to stimulate growth of bone matrix and cells, encouraging calcium salt deposition in bone tissue. Helps prevent or support treatment of orthopedic conditions.

Product Features

Each slice is plump and thick, with clearly visible muscle fibers just like fresh beef. When torn off and slowly chewed, it’s not dry or crumbly—very chewy and elastic. A rich, full-bodied aroma of beef lingers on the palate, with the sweet taste of the beef instantly delighting the senses, along with a subtle hint of alcohol. Extremely tender and juicy.

Historical & Cultural Background

The founder of Gaokeng Beef Shop, Mr. Chen Yashang, came from a large family with many siblings and faced financial hardship, making education nearly impossible. Back then, Kinmen was a key military outpost, and due to cross-strait tensions, the government actively promoted military enlistment to strengthen forces. To make ends meet, Mr. Chen joined the army and attended the Third Soldier School. Later, finding it difficult to advance further in the military and needing to support his family, he decided to leave the service in pursuit of a stable livelihood. In 1975, he mustered the resolve to be discharged. Though he tried other jobs afterward with little success, the responsibility of supporting his aging parents and younger siblings compelled him to seek opportunities in Taipei. He found work in a restaurant, and thanks to his dedication, eagerness to learn, and strong work ethic, he earned the trust of the restaurant owner, which led to the opportunity to work in the kitchen. Under the strict guidance of experienced chefs, he mastered essential cooking skills through rigorous training and eventually became capable of independently preparing delicious dishes.

It should be noted that this Kinmen specialty has been registered as a trademark by certain individuals. The packaging is made to look identical, and the products are deliberately shipped from Xiamen, which has greatly misled consumers.