What Is Beef Biltong? A Tasty Guide to This Savory Snack

What Exactly Is Beef Biltong?

Beef biltong is a delicious, protein-packed snack that originated in Southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. At its core, biltong is strips of beef that have been cured with salt, vinegar, and spices, then air-dried to perfection. The result is a flavorful, chewy treat that’s become popular around the world for its unique taste and wholesome ingredients.

The Origins of Biltong

Biltong has deep roots in South African culture. The word “biltong” comes from the Dutch words “bil” (meaning rump or buttock) and “tong” (meaning strip or tongue). Early Dutch settlers in South Africa created biltong as a way to preserve meat before refrigeration existed. By curing meat with salt and vinegar and then drying it in the open air, they found an effective way to keep meat edible for long periods.

Over time, this method evolved, and spices like coriander, black pepper, and cloves were added for extra flavor. Today, biltong remains a cherished snack in Southern Africa and has gained fans all over the globe.

How Is Beef Biltong Made?

The process of making beef biltong is both simple and fascinating. Here’s how it typically goes:

• Choosing the Meat: Traditionally, biltong is made from beef, but game meats like ostrich or kudu are also used. The best cuts for biltong are silverside or topside, which are lean and easy to slice.
• Slicing: The meat is cut into strips about an inch wide and several inches long. The thickness can vary depending on personal preference.
• Marinating: The strips are marinated in vinegar (usually malt or apple cider vinegar) to help tenderize the meat and add a tangy flavor. Then, they’re coated with a blend of spices—most commonly coriander, black pepper, salt, and sometimes sugar or chili flakes.
• Curing: After marinating, the meat is left to cure for several hours or overnight. This step draws out moisture and helps preserve the beef.
• Drying: Finally, the strips are hung in a cool, dry place with good air circulation for several days to a week. Traditionally, biltong was dried in open-air sheds or on verandas; nowadays, some people use dehydrators or dedicated biltong boxes at home.

What Makes Biltong Different from Jerky?

Biltong is often compared to beef jerky, but there are some key differences:

• Preparation: Jerky is typically sliced thin before marinating and drying, while biltong is cut thicker and air-dried whole before being sliced.
• Ingredients: Biltong uses vinegar and coriander as main flavorings, whereas jerky often relies on soy sauce, sugar, and smoke flavoring.
• Texture: Biltong tends to be more tender and less chewy than jerky because it’s dried slower and retains more moisture.
• Preservation Method: Biltong is air-dried without heat, while jerky is usually dried using low heat in an oven or dehydrator.

Why Is Beef Biltong So Popular?

Biltong’s popularity is no accident—it’s packed with benefits that make it a go-to snack for many:

• High in Protein: Biltong is loaded with protein, making it perfect for athletes or anyone looking for a satisfying snack that keeps you full.
• Low in Carbs: With minimal sugar or carbs, it fits well into low-carb or keto diets.
• No Artificial Additives: Traditional biltong recipes use simple, natural ingredients without preservatives or artificial flavors.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and air-drying gives biltong its signature taste—savory, slightly tangy, and bursting with umami.

How to Enjoy Beef Biltong

Biltong is incredibly versatile. Here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:

• As a Snack: Eat it straight out of the bag for a quick protein boost.
• With Cheese and Crackers: Pair biltong with your favorite cheeses for a gourmet snack platter.
• In Salads: Slice or crumble biltong over salads for extra flavor and protein.
• In Sandwiches or Wraps: Add strips of biltong for a savory twist on classic sandwiches.
• With Eggs: Toss some chopped biltong into scrambled eggs or omelets for a hearty breakfast.

Nutritional Value of Beef Biltong

Biltong isn’t just delicious—it’s also nutritious. Here’s what you’ll typically find in 1 ounce (28 grams) of beef biltong:

• Calories: About 80-90
• Protein: 15-18 grams
• Total Fat: 2-4 grams
• Sugar/Carbs: Less than 1 gram
• Sodium: Varies depending on the recipe

Biltong is also a good source of iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and other essential nutrients found in red meat.

Is Beef Biltong Healthy?

Biltong can be a healthy snack option when enjoyed in moderation. Its high protein content helps build muscle and keep you feeling full. Because it’s made from lean cuts of meat without added sugars or artificial preservatives (when made traditionally), it’s often considered healthier than many processed snacks.

The main thing to watch out for is sodium—some recipes can be quite salty. If you’re watching your salt intake, check nutrition labels or make your own at home so you can control the ingredients.

Can You Make Beef Biltong at Home?

Absolutely! Making biltong at home is easier than you might think. You’ll need quality beef (like silverside or topside), vinegar, salt, coriander seeds, black pepper, and your choice of extra spices. After marinating the beef strips and coating them with your spice blend, you’ll hang them to dry in a cool place with good airflow for about 4-7 days. There are plenty of easy-to-follow recipes online to guide you through the process step by step.

Where Can You Buy Beef Biltong?

If making it yourself isn’t your thing, don’t worry—beef biltong is widely available. You can find it at specialty food stores, some supermarkets (especially those with international sections), online retailers, and even health food shops. Look for brands that use traditional methods and simple ingredients for the best quality.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Biltong

• Is beef biltong safe to eat?
  Biltong made using proper curing and drying techniques is safe to eat. Always buy from reputable sources or follow trusted recipes if making it yourself.
• How should I store biltong?
  Biltong should be kept in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it’s best stored in an airtight container or resealable bag. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze it.
• Does biltong contain gluten?
  Biltong made using traditional recipes is naturally gluten-free. However, check labels if you have allergies—some commercial products may add flavorings that contain gluten.
• Can kids eat biltong?
  Biltong can be a great snack for kids due to its high protein content—just keep an eye on sodium levels for younger children.

The Bottom Line

Beef biltong is more than just dried meat—it’s a flavorful tradition with centuries of history behind it. Whether you’re looking for a protein-rich snack or want to try something new from South African cuisine, biltong is worth a taste. Enjoy it on its own or get creative by adding it to your favorite dishes!