Discover the ultimate South African biltong recipe.
Biltong is a culinary tradition that’s been growing in popularity over the years.
A while back, we wrote about how to make biltong. It’s a South African dried meat snack that’s made from lean cuts of beef, venison or other wild game.
Biltong is a very savory snack with a rich umami flavor. What’s great about biltong is that you can season it however you like. Do you like a lot of garlic? Add plenty. Do you like a little cumin? Add some.
To make biltong, you’ll need a biltong box or a breathable vacuum seal bag. This is what allows the meat to dry evenly and prevents any moisture from getting trapped inside.
Preparing the Meat
- Start with 1.5kg of silverside beef and cut it along the grain using a sharp knife.
- Cut the beef into slices around 1cm thick, which will affect the drying time.
- Thicker slices take longer to dry, while thinner slices dry quicker.
- Use a biltong maker or a sharp knife to cut the meat into uniform strips.
- Trim any excess fat from the meat to ensure even drying.
Crafting the Perfect Spice Blend
- Mix and match spices to create your desired flavor profile, but salt is essential for drying and preservation.
- Crush sea salt flakes, black peppercorns, chilli flakes, and coriander seeds to create a blend.
- Use a pestle and mortar to crush the spices to your desired texture.
- Add a pinch of brown sugar to balance out the flavors.
- Experiment with different spice combinations to find your perfect blend.
Marinating and Seasoning
- Marinate the beef in a mixture of apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Rub the salt and spices into the beef to ensure even coverage.
- Use a vinegar bath to help preserve the meat and add flavor.
- Let the meat sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Drying and Curing with a Biltong Box
- Hang the beef in a biltong box or use paper clips to create hooks.
- Allow the biltong to dry for 4-5 days, or longer for a drier product.
- Use a biltong box with a fan and light to control the temperature and humidity.
- Monitor the biltong’s progress and adjust the drying time as needed.
Tips for Achieving Authentic Flavor
- Use a biltong maker or a breathable vacuum seal bag to dry the meat to your liking.
- Experiment with different spice combinations to find your perfect blend.
- Don’t over-marinate the meat, as this can affect the final flavor.
- Use coarse salt and black pepper to add depth to the flavor.
- Try using different types of vinegar, such as brown vinegar, to add a unique flavor.
Becoming a biltong connoisseur is as easy as 1-2-3! You can make your own real South African style biltong in the comfort of your own home.
The beauty of making biltong is that you can experiment with different seasonings and drying times to create your perfect flavor profile. If you like it hot, sweet or a combination of both, you can make any flavor of biltong you desire. The possibilities are endless!
As you make biltong, be sure to share some with friends and family and take some pictures to share on social media. You can connect with other biltong enthusiasts online and swap recipes and stories.
When you make biltong, enjoy it as a snack while watching a movie or game, or get creative and add it to salads, sandwiches or use it as a gourmet appetizer. The options are endless!
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