Biltong is a traditional South African air-dried meat that has gained immense popularity in Australia and globally due to its rich flavour and nutritional benefits. Another benefit of biltong is its shelf life, it can keep well for weeks if stored properly.
To get the best out of your biltong products whether it’s biltong pieces, biltong sticks or packaged biltong, follow our essential tips and techniques to ensure your biltong retains its quality and flavour for as long as possible.
How Biltong is Made
The process of making biltong is a culinary tradition steeped in history. Made primarily from beef, biltong undergoes a curing process with salt, vinegar and spices, followed by a drying period where it’s air dried in a well-ventilated space. This gentle drying process allows for its long shelf life.
The result is a flavour-packed, protein-rich treat. Wagyu Biltong Co. takes this a step further by using premium wagyu beef, known for its marbling and flavour. Each type of meat, be it Angus or Wagyu biltong, offers a distinct taste and texture, appealing to various palates.
The uniqueness of biltong also lies in its versatility. From thickly cut slabs to finely ground biltong powder, it can be enjoyed in numerous ways.
How to Store Biltong
Proper storage of biltong is crucial in maintaining its flavour, texture, and freshness.
- The first rule of thumb is to keep biltong in a cool, dry place. Exposure to heat and moisture can lead to the growth of mould and bacteria, significantly reducing the shelf life of the product.
- For packaged biltong, once opened, transferring the biltong to an airtight container can help maintain its freshness.
- For those who purchase biltong in bulk, such as biltong slabs or larger cuts, it is advisable to slice only the amount you plan to consume immediately. The rest should be stored in a cool, dry place, to allow the meat to breathe while protecting it from excess humidity. This method helps preserve the biltong's texture and flavour integrity.
Wagyu Biltong Co. Care Instructions
- Keep between 15°C - 23°C.
- Place away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place.
- Store sliced & stick products in airtight or resealable containers.
- If you choose to refrigerate, allow the biltong to come back to room temperature before serving.
- When ordering full steaks of biltong (un-sliced) from Wagyu Biltong Co. we provide a plastic hook to hang up your biltong for storage. Follow the instructions on your storage instruction card provided during purchase.
*We do not recommend freezing your biltong, unless necessary for long-term storage. If you do freeze your biltong, it will naturally release moisture when defrosting. Ensure it is kept in a very dry, well-ventilated environment during this time.
Tips for Maintaining Biltong Quality
Maintaining the quality of your biltong involves more than just proper storage; handling also plays a critical role.
- Always use clean, dry hands or utensils when handling biltong to avoid introducing moisture or contaminants. If you're slicing biltong, ensure that the knife and cutting board are dry and clean.
- For ground or powdered biltong, used as a seasoning or flavour enhancer in dishes, keep it in a container with a tight-fitting lid, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Regularly check your stored biltong for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, mould, or an unusually soggy texture. If any piece of biltong shows these signs, it is best to discard it immediately to prevent the risk of food-borne illnesses.
Storing biltong correctly is essential for preserving its delicious taste and nutritional value. Enjoy high-quality Wagyu and Angus biltong from Wagyu Biltong Co. Our biltong has a 6-month shelf life if stored correctly.
However, you likely won't need to concern yourself with storage, as it never lasts that long…