Biltong is more than just a snack; it’s a mouthwatering experience rooted in South African culinary tradition. This tasty African treat is a high-protein, low-carb snack. It is quickly becoming popular with people who want healthy snacks!
Key Highlights
- Biltong is a traditional South African meat snack made by air-drying slices of meat like beef with vinegar, salt, and spices.
- It’s known for its tender texture, bold flavour, and high protein content.
- Not the same as beef jerky — biltong is cured and air-dried, not cooked or smoked.
- Now loved in the UK, beef biltong is a quick snack, gym fuel, or charcuterie staple.
- Looking for biltong nutrition info? Check out our full health-focused blog here.
So, What is Biltong Meat?
At its core, biltong is made from air-dried strips of meat or a curing process. The Original Biltong Company carefully air-dries our premium-grade beef from British and Irish grass-fed cattle. This process guarantees a fully traceable product that’s not only delicious but also ethically responsible. We’re committed to offering a nutritious snack that fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
What Is Biltong and What Does It Taste Like?
Biltong is made by curing very lean cuts of beef in vinegar, salt, and spices and air-drying them for several days. Biltong isn’t smoked or heat-dehydrated like jerky. Instead, it’s hung in well-ventilated spaces. This helps the flavors deepen without making the meat too tough.
The result? A snack with delicious flavours, a tangy richness from the vinegar, and a chewy bite that follows the grain of the muscle. For anyone asking what biltong tastes like, think of it as bold, savoury, and full of meaty complexity.
The History of Biltong and How It’s Made
Biltong making began in the 17th century. South African travelers and farmers needed a way to preserve strips of meat without refrigeration.
They would cure very lean cuts in vinegar and salt, then air-dry them in cool, dry air conditions. This allowed the meat to develop a rich flavour while gaining a naturally long shelf life.
This method wasn’t just practical — it was smart. It relied on simple ingredients and sustainable food preservation. Over time, the technique was passed down through generations and is still used today.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says air-drying meat is still vital and sustainable in many cultures. This method remains prized in modern production around the world.
The Ingredients That Make Biltong Unique
At its core, real biltong is all about keeping it simple.
Common Meats:
- Beef biltong: The most popular type, made from very lean cuts like silverside or sirloin
- Ostrich: lean, slightly gamey flavour and rich in protein
- Venison: includes meats like kudu or impala, offering a bold, earthy taste
- Springbok or wildebeest: traditional in southern African countries, prized for their strong, gamey flavour
Key Seasonings:
- Coriander: Adds a citrusy warmth
- Black pepper: A subtle kick
- Salt: For curing and depth
- Vinegar: Essential for flavour and preservation
This mix of vinegar and spices sets biltong apart from other cured meats. According to the European Food Information Council (EUFIC), traditional spice blends like these are used for taste and preservation.
Common Meats Used in Biltong
Biltong can be made from different types of meat, each with a special taste. Beef is the most common choice, especially lean cuts of meat.
Due to South Africa's rich culinary history, game meat is also popular. For example, an ostrich is another favorite option. It adds a lean and lightly gamey flavor to biltong.
Venison is becoming a popular choice for biltong too. It has a richer and stronger flavor. In the end, the choice of meat depends on personal preference and local traditions.
This variety lets biltong fans enjoy different flavor profiles while tasting this well-loved South African snack.
The Making of Biltong: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making biltong is both an art and a science — rooted in tradition but refined through generations of experience.
Here’s how the process typically unfolds:
- Start with very lean cuts like silverside or sirloin.
- Slice the meat along the grain into thick fillets of meat.
- Soak the pieces in a mixture of vinegar and spices, allowing flavour to penetrate.
- Hang them in a dry, ventilated area, ideally in cool, dry air conditions.
- Wait 4–7 days, depending on the thickness of the meat and humidity levels.
Every step of the way, texture, and flavour are developed slowly. Biltong doesn’t need heat, nitrates, or artificial preservatives. It’s made with just air, time, and simple ingredients to create something truly special.
👉 Curious about meat safety during the drying process? The UK Food Standards Agency provides practical information on safe meat handling and curing methods.
👉 Want to know how to store it once you’ve got it home? Read our biltong storage guide here.
How Biltong is Dried and Cured
Drying is the heart of the process. Once marinated, the meat is left to hang in dry air conditions, typically between 15°C and 25°C. No heat, no additives — just nature doing its thing.
Unlike jerky, which can be brittle, biltong stays moist and chewy. This texture boosts its flavor and makes it especially enjoyable.
Tips for Perfecting the Texture
Getting the perfect biltong texture depends on what you like. Some people like it a bit chewy, while others want it drier. You can try different drying times and conditions to find your desired texture.
A good tip is to check your biltong often while it dries. If you gently squeeze it, you can feel how dry it is. It should be firm but still a little soft, showing the right moisture level.
In the end, making your biltong means you control everything. From choosing the meat to deciding the drying time, you can create a great and personalized snack experience.
Why Biltong Is Taking Over Snack Shelves
Biltong might be new to some in the UK, but it’s long been a staple in South African cuisine.
Biltong is a dehydrated meat snack that's high in protein. It's also a fun addition to a cheeseboard. Biltong is popular in Britain for its simple ingredients and clean nutrition. The BBC’s World Cuisine section notes that biltong is now part of modern UK culinary trends.
Biltong vs Jerky — Key Differences in Taste and Texture
Though often compared, biltong and beef jerky are very different.
| Feature | Biltong | Jerky |
| Drying | Air-dried | Heat dehydrated |
| Flavour | Tangy, bold | Smokier, sometimes sweet |
| Texture | Chewy, tender | Tougher, drier |
| Ingredients | Simple ingredients | May contain brown sugar, soy, or Worcestershire sauce |
Want the full breakdown? Read our full Biltong vs Jerky guide
Want to learn more about traditional vs modern meat processing? Check out the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) for a breakdown of curing techniques and safety standards.
Nutritional Comparisons
Biltong is often seen as a healthier choice than many processed snacks. This is because it has high protein content. People looking to boost their protein or stay full like it a lot.
Biltong is also low in carbs and usually has minimal fat, especially when it uses lean cuts of meat. This makes it a good snack for those on special diets like low-carb or ketogenic plans.
Biltong is a more natural and less processed snack, making it a tasty and nutritious option. It is often compared to jerky, which has added sugar and preservatives.
Why Biltong in the UK Is Becoming So Popular
More Brits are switching to biltong as they discover its nutritional benefits and culinary versatility. Whether on a hike, during a gym session, or with a drink, beef biltong fits modern eating habits.
Add it to salads, cheese boards, or just eat it straight from the bag. Its delicious flavours and clean profile make it one of the best meat snacks you can buy in the UK today.
How to Eat and Serve Biltong
The charm of biltong lies in its versatility. Whether you’re snacking straight from the bag or adding it to a dish, it delivers on both flavour and function.
Here are some popular ways to enjoy it:
- On a charcuterie board — pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses and tangy pickles
- As a post-workout snack — high in protein, low in fuss
- Mixed into a salad or wrap — adds a bold, meaty boost
- Alongside cheeses and nuts — a natural fit on any grazing platter
- Straight from the bag — soft, chewy, and flavour-packed on its own
Many people love the simple pleasure of biltong. Some cut it into smaller pieces to make it easier to nibble, while others enjoy its bold, chewy texture whole. However you slice it, thin-sliced biltong adds protein and an extra notch of flavour to nearly anything.
Ultimately, how you eat biltong is up to you. It’s a delicious, protein-rich snack that can be enjoyed in many ways.
Where to Find Quality Biltong in the UK
Finding good South African biltong in the UK is now much easier. Its widespread availability in recent years shows how popular it has become. Supermarkets often have a special section for biltong and other dried meat snacks.
If you want authentic South African biltong, specialty shops have many brands and flavors. These shops let you try different cuts of meat and spice blends. This way, you can find your perfect biltong.
You can also check out many online stores that deliver high-quality biltong to your home. This provides convenience and allows you to enjoy the authentic taste of biltong.
Fan Favourites: Our Most Sought-After Biltong
1. Original Biltong
The classic, must-try! Made with high-quality beef and a traditional blend of spices. A customer favourite.
2. Traditional Original Biltong
Similar to the original, but cut into larger pieces or slabs. The larger cut provides a more rustic texture and a slightly chewier experience.
3. Piri Piri Biltong
Adds a spicy kick to our traditional biltong recipe.
4. Traditional Piri Piri Biltong
The spicy kick, but with a large, flavourful cut.
5. Garlic Biltong
Garlic lovers rejoice! This biltong infuses savoury garlic flavour into every bite.
6. Traditional Garlic Biltong
The tasty garlic flavour with a traditional larger cut is a popular choice.
7. Smoky BBQ Biltong
A smoky taste that perfectly complements the savoury biltong.
8. Traditional Smoky BBQ Biltong
Infused with rich smoky flavour in a traditional cut.
9. Big Taste Box
A selection of our delicious snacks and a great option to experience everything!
10. Original Droewors Bites
Tasty, small bites of cured sausage, perfect for a quick snack.
