Homemade Biltong Spice
According to the Encarta World English Dictionary, biltong is "strips of lean meat cured by salting and drying" (www.encarta.msn.com). But to those who grew up eating this South African staple, biltong is the flavor of home. Sometimes compared to jerky or prosciutto, biltong has a long culinary history and remains a popular snack at many South African sporting or social events. While there are many different recipes for biltong and the spices that are used to make it, most biltong makers would agree a few basic ingredients are necessary. Does this Spark an idea?
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Biltong Spices
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The spices chosen for biltong will differ according to which type of meat is being cured. Traditionally, biltong is made from either beef or "game" which can include several types of meat such as ostrich or other wild meats but never pork, lamb or poultry.
Salt, for its drying properties, must be included no matter what else is added. Brown sugar, black pepper, bicarbonate of soda, saltpeter and roasted coriander are the basic biltong spices.
From this foundation, granulated garlic, chili powder, soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce or any other spices your culinary imagination wishes may be added. Packaged biltong spices are available at specialty markets; however, basic recipes are readily available and anyone venturing to make homemade biltong should not be afraid to concoct their own version.
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