Biltong is an edible dried, cured meat snack that originates from South African countries. To be more specific, this high protein snack is from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia. The word Biltong comes from the Dutch word ‘bil’ and ‘tong’ which respectively holds the meaning of ‘buttock” and “strip” or “tongue”.
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What is Biltong made of?
Biltong can be made of a variety of meats, though beef biltong is the most common one in modern times. Strip-cut beef fillets that are flat with muscle grains are used to make biltong. Due to this, biltong is usually slightly chewy. We think that it is exactly because of this which makes biltong a great nibbling treat.
Biltong has traditionally been made of game meats such as kudu, springbok and wildebeest. You may also find biltong made of chicken, fish and ostrich meat.
Difference between Biltong and Jerky
When we first look at both, we would think that they are the same meat snack. However, there are significant differences between biltong and jerky. To begin with, biltong is usually thicker compared to jerky strips because of the cut of the meat used and the longer drying time.
Biltong is also made by marinating the meat with spices such as salt, vinegar, pepper and ground coriander. After marination, the meat is dried and not smoked. Jerky, on the other hand, is typically not made with salt and vinegar. Jerky also undergoes a process of smoking which provides it with its smoky taste. These distinctions make up the difference between biltong and jerky.
What are the benefits of Biltong?
Beef biltong is high in protein and low in carb contents which are great for maintaining any diet. The treat is also gluten-free.
Biltong rich in iron which is a nutrient that many individuals do not get enough of daily. In addition, Biltong is also a good source of magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins such as B12. Vitamin B12 is excellent for maintaining healthy blood cells and nerve cells which is perfect for cell replication.
In terms of storage, biltong’s shelf life is very long. As biltong is essentially dry meat soaked in spices, we are sure that anyone can store biltong for a very long time without any worry.
Overall, we think that biltong meat serves many incredible benefits to the human body when consumed.
Why is Biltong so high in protein?
Biltong is exceptionally high in protein! In 100 grams of biltong, it typically over 60 grams of protein which would meet half the daily protein requirement an average adult should consume. In that sense, it would be better to eat biltong rather than snacking on other products such as potato chips and chocolate. Biltong will not leave you feeling regretful when fulfilling your cravings.
Because of its high protein content, eating this meat snack is excellent after a workout. It is also low in fat which would be good for those trying to lose weight. We think that low carb and high protein meat snack would be great for maintaining any type of diet. In particular, we recommend to those who are doing a keto diet to consider opting for biltong a snack.
Can Biltong be used as a protein shake replacement?
Yes, it can! Biltong is high in protein and contains many vital nutrients for the body. Rather than drinking a powder mix, replace the shake with a pack of biltong meat. It is incredibly high in protein, which helps meet your daily protein needs and contains other vital nutrients to improve your body’s daily functions.
Biltong is also low in carbohydrates, hence helping you to reduce your weight and get healthier. Some may argue that biltong is a snack that would be a suitable substitute for all your other snacking products. You also do not need to worry about refrigeration or adjust for different temperature needs that other food products may need.
Is Biltong healthy?
Biltong is an extremely healthy choice of meat that will help maintain any diet or improve eating habits. It is high in protein, low in carbs, and contains many vitamins to help your body’s blood cells and nerve cells. We believe that improving your diet by adding natural food items is always a great idea. Treat your body right by eating a healthy meat snack.
For most meat-friendly lifestyles, we think that eating biltong meat may be a great choice to implement into your dieting regime. Not only is biltong low in fat and carbohydrates, but it is also high in protein and packed with all sorts of essential vitamins. For those looking to lose weight while still meeting healthy dietary requirements, we suggest that biltong could be a good consideration.
Who should not consume Biltong?
Everyone can enjoy biltong meat! Biltong does not discriminate against anyone. Teething children can chew on biltong because of its chewy yet soft consistency. It could be a healthy distraction for growing children and provide comfort to their teeth. And, what’s better than children feeling better while consuming necessary vitamins? Because children quickly consume vitamins, this gives the family no worries because a healthy treat is being enjoyed.
Also, biltong is believed to help pregnant women improve and maintain concentration. However, we caution you to avoid moist biltong and only consume reliable biltong sources. During the months of pregnancy, biltong would be a convenient snack that is healthy yet easy to consume.
Biltong is an excellent choice to meet the many needs of all people. No matter the age or factors one is facing, biltong is a no-frills treat that is easy to eat while providing health benefits. There are plenty of positive aspects that biltong meat offers to an individual no matter their circumstance.
Why should one try Biltong?
By now, you would have a good understanding of what is biltong. Overall, biltong meat is a choice of snack that could just change one’s life. With the tastiness of dried and cured meat, as well as the health benefits it carries, biltong is a meaty treat that you should definitely give a try.
Biltong is a favourite snack among travellers, health-conscious people as well those who simply want a delicious treat. The main difference between biltong and other types of jerky is that it is made with natural ingredients, traditional processing methods, and no artificial preservatives. The result is a high-protein meat snack that is packed with taste, health essential nutrients and easy to enjoy.
Though a simple step, we think that eating biltong is indeed a great, natural way of improving one’s gastronomic lifestyle. Taste biltong for yourself and feel the difference in your daily life within the days ahead.