Biltong is a traditional South African delicacy consisting of dried and cured meat, similar to American beef jerky. Because of the curing process and ingredients, biltong has a very distinctive taste. It is also noted for how healthy it is, as the only perservatives are natural. Biltong is an excellent option for healthy snacking, as well as for trips into the outdoors due its weight, high protein content, and great taste.
Biltong spice recipes have great variations, but their fundamental ingredients have remained the same. This recipe is for the traditional spice mix that most South Africans enjoy to this day.
Please note that this recipe can very easily be scaled up to make in bulk. Simply keep the ratios consistent.
Roast your coriander seeds in a medium pan on low heat. Stay close to the pan for monitoring purposes. The seeds will turn to a rich brown. Do not overheat or overcook the seeds, as they will burn and have an unpleasant taste.
Finely crush the roasted coriander seeds. This can be done in a variety of ways, including:
Placing the seeds in a ziplock bag and using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin to crush them.
Using a traditional blender.
Using a pestle and mortar.
You will want to crush the coriander as fine as you can, but a few larger kernels is not an issue.
Add the coriander seeds to the salt and the pepper. Shake to mix.
This mix should not expire for a long time if placed in a dry, airtight container.
Ingredients
Directions
Roast your coriander seeds in a medium pan on low heat. Stay close to the pan for monitoring purposes. The seeds will turn to a rich brown. Do not overheat or overcook the seeds, as they will burn and have an unpleasant taste.
Finely crush the roasted coriander seeds. This can be done in a variety of ways, including:
Placing the seeds in a ziplock bag and using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin to crush them.
Using a traditional blender.
Using a pestle and mortar.
You will want to crush the coriander as fine as you can, but a few larger kernels is not an issue.
Add the coriander seeds to the salt and the pepper. Shake to mix.
Notes
Growing up in South Africa and moving to Utah, USA as a teenager, Scott is a graduate of Utah Valley University’s Outdoor Recreation program. Scott is currently a Master’s Student at the University of Florida. His research interests include ecotourism, sustainability, and tourist affect cycles. He has worked in multiple therapy, outdoor, and retail settings, and is a published author.