South African Biltong vs Beef Jerky: Which is Best?

Two names usually come up when talking about dried meat snacks: South African biltong and beef jerky. Both are very popular snacks, yet very few people know the difference between them. 

It's easy to confuse biltong for jerky, as they look alike, and both consist of healthy meat strips. But that is where the resemblance ends. 

Besides flavor profiles, jerky and biltong differ greatly in the method of preparation and several other considerations. So, if you would love to know about the differences between biltong and jerky, read on in this blog:

Preparation: The Key Difference Between Biltong and Beef Jerky 

Biltong, an African beef jerky, is air-dried and almost "cured." Normally, the meat is hung to dry for about a week. This slow-drying preserves more of its natural flavor, moisture, and nutrients. 

Jerky, on the other hand, is usually dehydrated or cooked at very low temperatures for 6-8 hours. Some recipes allow the meat to be smoked or use liquid smoke instead.

 This method of drying further contributes to the chewy texture that characterizes jerky. 

The most apparent difference between jerky and biltong is in their spice constituents. 

Biltong is soaked in vinegar, salt, and spicy seasonings such as coriander, pepper, and clove, which not only gives it an unusual flavor but also acts as a preservative. Classic biltong tastes umami with little sugar added.

On the contrary, beef jerky is marinated in soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce and packed with sugar, honey, or maple syrup to give it a signature sweet-and-savory flavor.

Nutritional Analysis of Biltong Vs Jerky 

Biltong

• Low Sugar—Traditional biltong recipes involve little to no sugar, making them a good option for those trying to cut back on sugar. 

• High in Protein - Biltong snack is an excellent option for muscle recovery and development as it is protein-packed. 

• Fat Content—Biltong's fat content can vary according to the meat type, which may be a consideration for those monitoring fat intake; nonetheless, this means it can also be quite satiating and provide sustained energy.

 Beef Jerky

• Excessive Sugar and Preservatives—Another problem with many commercial jerky recipes is the use of sugar and preservatives to enhance palatability and shelf life. This can lead to high sugar levels that dieters on low-sugar regimens must contend with.

Variations in Flavor and Texture 

South African Biltong is generally more tender and softer than American beef jerky because it is made from thicker pieces of meat that are air-dried to retain the natural moisture and tenderness of the meat. The slow drying process allows the meat to be somewhat chewy yet tender, which many people adore. 

Biltong flavor is a lot different from what meat lovers are used to because of the tangy taste that is mostly created during marination with vinegar. Generally, the spice mix adds a savory, slightly spicy taste and has coriander, pepper, and salt in it. But the meatiness that the beef possesses appears to be of great impact, delivering a very rich, deep flavor experience.

In contrast, beef jerky would generally be a lot more chewy and elastic than biltong. The reason for this would be the thinner meat strips used for preparing it, as well as the drying process that takes out much more moisture from the meat during the treatment. The final texture would, therefore, be heavier and require quite some effort to chew.

Jerky and Biltong: Alike, Yet Distinct 

Biltong and beef jerky are both useful protein snacks for consuming on the go or perhaps just to satisfy a savory craving. Therefore, your final choice between these two comes down to your taste and dietary needs. 

If you are looking for a healthy biltong. It is easy to see why less sugar, no preservatives, and a higher protein count would make biltong a desirable choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Its soft texture and rich taste also make it a wonderful ingredient for palate-pleasing pairings. On the other hand, while beef jerky is a tasty snack in its own right, it probably isn't a viable daily option or meal replacement because of the preservatives with which it is made.