Biltong
Biltong is a traditional South African dried, cured meat, similar to jerky but with a distinct flavor and texture. It's typically made from beef or game, marinated in a vinegar-based brine, coated in a spiced mixture, and then air-dried.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2kg Beef silverside or similar lean cut (e.g., eye of round, top round)
- 4 tbsp Coriander seeds
- 100g Coarse salt (e.g., sea salt, kosher salt)
- 30g Brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Black peppercorns
- 200ml White vinegar or cider vinegar
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the meat: Trim any large pieces of fat from the beef, but leave a thin layer. Cut the beef into strips approximately 1-2 cm thick, following the grain of the meat. This ensures the biltong is tender and easy to slice when dried.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Toast and grind the spices: In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the coriander seeds until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Let them cool slightly, then coarsely grind them using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. Combine the ground coriander with the coarse salt, brown sugar, and coarsely cracked black pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Marinate and coat the meat: Pour the vinegar into a shallow dish. Dip each strip of beef into the vinegar, ensuring it is fully coated. Immediately after, roll each vinegar-dipped strip in the spice and salt mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even and generous coating on all sides. Place the coated meat strips on a rack or tray.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 4
Drying the biltong: Hang the spice-coated meat strips in a well-ventilated area. Traditionally, this is done in a 'biltong box' which is a specially designed drying cabinet with a light bulb for gentle heat and a fan for airflow. Alternatively, you can hang them in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as a pantry or a room with an open window, ensuring they are protected from insects. The drying process typically takes 5 to 7 days, depending on the thickness of the meat, humidity, and temperature. The biltong is ready when it is firm to the touch but still slightly pliable, with a dry exterior.
⏱️ 5-7 days - 5
Check and store: After 5 days, start checking the biltong for desired dryness. It should feel firm and leathery. Once dried to your preference, it can be sliced thinly and enjoyed. Store the finished biltong in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag at room temperature for a few weeks, or in the refrigerator for longer storage.
⏱️ Ongoing check
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure excellent airflow during the drying process to prevent mold growth and ensure even drying.
- ✓Inspect the biltong daily for any signs of mold. If mold appears, you may need to increase airflow or slightly increase the temperature (if using a biltong box). Small white mold can sometimes be acceptable, but any colored mold should be a cause for concern.
- ✓The thickness of the meat strips significantly impacts drying time. Thicker strips will take longer to dry.
- ✓For a more intense flavor, you can let the meat cure in the spice mixture in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours before hanging, though this is not strictly traditional for all biltong styles.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Game biltong: Use venison, ostrich, or other game meats.
- Wet vs. Dry Biltong: Adjust drying time based on personal preference for moisture content. 'Wet' biltong is softer and moister, while 'dry' biltong is firmer and chewier.
- Spice variations: Add chili flakes, paprika, or garlic powder to the spice mix for different flavor profiles.