Traditional South African Biltong

Imagine this: You’re sitting on a sunlit porch, the air filled with the earthy aroma of coriander and spices. In your hand is a piece of traditional South African biltong—a snack so rich in flavor and history, it feels like a journey to the heart of South Africa with every bite. Now, you don’t have to imagine anymore, because this iconic treat is just a click away!

Why You’ll Love Our Traditional Biltong

• Authentic Taste: Made with premium cuts of beef, cured to perfection, and spiced with a blend of toasted coriander, black pepper, and a hint of vinegar, our biltong is a true taste of South Africa.

• Perfect Texture: Whether you like it moist and tender or dry and chewy, our biltong is crafted to satisfy every craving.

• Protein-Packed: It’s not just delicious—it’s also a wholesome, high-protein snack that keeps you energized throughout the day.

Biltong Size Options

At Aubergine Foods, we’ve made it easy for you to enjoy this South African classic:

• 250g Pack: Perfect for first-timers or a quick snack fix.

• 400g Pack: For true biltong lovers who can’t get enough.

Subscribe & Save

You could save more than $3,500 a year with a weekly 800g subscription of the best Biltong in Canada.

Never run out of Biltong again with a lekker, hassle-free subscription. Choose a monthly subscription and save 10% on every pack, or go for a weekly subscription and save 15% on all your Biltong! 

What's Biltong?

Biltong is a process for preserving meat that originated centuries ago in South Africa.  

How Our Biltong is Made

Ah, biltong—the ultimate South African snack that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history! Imagine tender strips of meat, cured to perfection, bursting with savory, spicy, and slightly tangy notes. Making biltong is an art form, passed down through generations, and here’s how this mouthwatering delicacy comes to life:

Step 1: Choosing the Meat

It all starts with high-quality meat, typically beef (though game meats like venison or ostrich are also popular). The best cuts are lean and flavorful, like silverside or topside. The meat is carefully sliced with the grain into long, thick strips—about an inch wide. This ensures the biltong has that signature chewy yet tender texture.

Step 2: The Spice Rub (The Heart of Biltong)

This is where the magic happens! The meat is generously coated in a spice mix that’s a closely guarded secret in many families. The classic blend includes:

• Coriander: Toasted and crushed, it’s the star of the show, giving biltong its earthy, nutty flavor.

• Black Pepper: For a subtle kick.

• Salt: Usually coarse sea salt or rock salt, which draws out moisture and preserves the meat.

• Vinegar: Often brown or apple cider vinegar, which adds tanginess and helps cure the meat.

Some recipes also include spices like paprika, chili flakes, or even a pinch of sugar for balance. The meat is lovingly massaged with this mix, ensuring every inch is covered.

Step 3: The Cure

Once spiced, the meat is left to marinate in a cool place for several hours—or even overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply and the vinegar to work its curing magic. The salt draws out moisture, creating an environment where bacteria can’t thrive, while the vinegar adds that signature tang.

Step 4: Air-Drying (The Waiting Game)

After marinating, the meat is hung up to dry. Traditionally, this is done in a biltong box—a wooden cabinet with ventilation holes and a small fan to circulate air. The meat hangs in this controlled environment for 4 to 7 days, depending on the thickness and desired texture. Some like it moist and tender, while others prefer it dry and chewy.

In the old days, biltong was dried outdoors in the cool, dry South African air—a method still used in some parts of the country. The slow drying process intensifies the flavors and transforms the meat into a shelf-stable snack that’s packed with protein and flavor.

Step 5: Slicing and Enjoying

Once dried, the biltong is sliced against the grain into thin, bite-sized pieces. The aroma of coriander and spices fills the air as you take your first bite—chewy, savory, and utterly addictive. It’s perfect on its own, paired with a cold beer, or even added to dishes for a flavor boost.

Why Biltong is Special

Biltong isn’t just food; it’s a cultural icon. Born out of necessity during the early days of South African exploration, it was a way to preserve meat without refrigeration. Today, it’s a beloved snack that brings people together, whether at a braai (barbecue), a rugby match, or just as a treat on the go.

So, if you’ve never tried biltong, you’re missing out on a piece of South African heritage. And if you have, you know why it’s impossible to stop at just one piece! 🥩✨