What's the main difference between biltong jerky and regular beef jerky?

Biltong jerky is air‑dried at room temperature with vinegar as a curing agent, while regular jerky is typically heat‑dried in an oven or dehydrator. This creates fundamentally different textures and flavors—biltong tends to be softer with a more complex taste profile.

Is biltong jerky safe to make at home?

Yes, when proper techniques are followed. The combination of vinegar, salt, low humidity, and good air circulation creates an environment where harmful bacteria cannot thrive. Always start with fresh, quality meat and maintain clean conditions.

How do I know when my biltong jerky is ready?

Biltong can be enjoyed at various stages of dryness. After 3–4 days, check a piece by cutting into it. For “wet” biltong, the center should be slightly pink but not raw. For drier biltong, continue drying until it reaches your preferred texture—typically 4–5 days for medium and up to 7 days for very dry.

Can I use a food dehydrator instead of air‑drying?

While purists might object, you can adapt a dehydrator for biltong by using the lowest possible temperature setting (preferably below 104 °F/40 °C) and propping the door slightly open for airflow. It’s not traditional, but it’s a safe and effective approximation.

What are the best cuts of beef for biltong jerky?

Silverside, topside, and sirloin are traditional cuts. Look for pieces with minimal connective tissue but ideally some fat marbling. Eye of round is widely available and works excellently for biltong making at home.

Biltong Jerky Hacks: How to Make Perfectly Tender and Flavorful Snacks 2025

Name: Biltong Jerky Hacks: How to Make Perfectly Tender and Flavorful Snacks
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488014H27M32S
Total time: PT-488014H27M32S
Cuisine: South African
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef (sirloin, silverside, or topside cut); 2 tablespoons coarse salt; 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional); 2 tablespoons whole coriander seeds, toasted and crushed; 1 tablespoon black pepper; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Biltong Jerky Hacks: How to Make Perfectly Tender and Flavorful Snacks

Print Recipe

This authentic biltong jerky recipe delivers rich, tender, and perfectly spiced strips of air-dried beef—the South African way. It’s protein-packed, preservative-free, and surprisingly easy to make at home, no dehydrator required.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3–5 days (air-drying)
Total Time: 4–6 days
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Category: Snack
Method: Air-Dried
Cuisine: South African

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds beef (sirloin, silverside, or topside cut)
2 tablespoons coarse salt
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
2 tablespoons whole coriander seeds, toasted and crushed
1 tablespoon black pepper
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Meat: Slice beef along the grain into 1-inch thick strips, 8–12 inches long. Trim excess fat if desired.
Vinegar Bath: Mix vinegar and Worcestershire sauce in a shallow dish. Dip each meat strip to coat evenly.
Spice the Meat: Toast coriander seeds, crush, then mix with salt, pepper, and sugar. Rub spice mix thoroughly onto all sides of meat.
Cure: Place meat in a covered container and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow flavor penetration.
Dry: Pat meat dry, then hang in a well-ventilated area or biltong box for 3–5 days, until desired dryness is reached.
Slice & Store: Slice just before serving. Store whole or sliced pieces in paper bags or airtight containers.

Notes

For drier biltong, extend drying time to 6–7 days. To reduce sodium, cut salt to 1 tbsp and use potassium salt substitute. Eye of round is a great supermarket-friendly cut. Use a small fan to boost airflow in humid environments.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 oz
Calories: 90
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: biltong jerky, South African beef jerky, homemade biltong, keto snacks, air dried jerky

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/biltong-jerky/