Biltong is a dried meat snack favourite originating from South Africa and is popular across the globe due to its rich flavour and nutritious profile.
Biltong can be made from various types of meat, depending on your preference. Some popular varieties found in Australia are Wagyu biltong and Angus biltong. Wagyu biltong, known for its exceptional marbling, results in a tender, flavourful snack.
Angus biltong brings a different profile, featuring slightly leaner meat with a robust beef flavour that can appeal to those who appreciate a meatier chew. The choice between Wagyu and Angus often comes down to personal preference regarding fat content and texture. Explore our Angus Biltong
Biltong Sticks vs Biltong Pieces
Biltong comes in different formats. In its most original form, biltong are long strips of dried meat that can be cut up to size, traditionally using a biltong slicer. These bite-sized pieces can be enjoyed just like that or can add a meaty punch to salads, pizzas, or even baked goods.
Another popular way biltong can be made is as biltong sticks. Biltong sticks are hand-sliced, thin strips of beef, generously spiced and air-dried. They offer a firm, dry texture with an abundance of marbling throughout providing tiny pockets of flavour release. Rich in protein, biltong sticks are a healthy alternative as a ready-to-eat snack.
Packaged biltong is often bite-sized and convenient for a quick snack during a hike or when you are on the go.
Ideal Biltong Pairings
Wine is a classic choice to enjoy with biltong. The robust flavours of red wine complement the intense flavours of Angus or Wagyu biltong beautifully.
Biltong is also a great addition to cheese boards. The salty, tangy notes of aged cheddar or gouda stand wonderfully against the dry, spicy notes of biltong. Adding dried fruits and nuts to a cheese board can turn a simple biltong snack into an enjoyable and comprehensive platter, perfect for social gatherings.
Cooking With Biltong
Beyond a snack, biltong is a versatile ingredient that can be integrated into a variety of dishes. When used in cooking, the dried meat adds a depth of flavour to recipes. It can be finely chopped and sprinkled over omelettes or incorporated into quiches for a protein-packed breakfast.
For dinner options, consider tossing biltong pieces into stews or casseroles. The slow cooking process softens the biltong, allowing it to infuse the dish with its rich, meaty flavours. Alternatively, for a quick meal, add some biltong pieces into a pasta sauce or over a pizza before baking, adding a unique South African twist to familiar dishes.
Nutritional Benefits of Biltong
Biltong is not only tasty but also packed with nutritional benefits. It's a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, making it a popular choice among athletes and those adhering to high-protein diets. Additionally, it's low in carbohydrates and contains various vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin B12, vital for energy production and overall well-being.
Moreover, because biltong is air-dried, it retains more nutrients compared to other forms of processed meats, which can lose nutritional content during cooking. Thus, it's a healthier alternative to many store-bought snacks that are often laden with sugars, flavourings and artificial additives.
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