Jerky Vs. Biltong: The Battle of the Dried Meats

If you're following a carnivore diet, then you'll know the importance of consuming quality sources of meat. Dried meat, in particular, has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and nutritional value. However, with so many different types of dried meat out there, it's easy to get confused between them all. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the differences between jerky and biltong, two popular types of dried meat that are often compared against each other.

Origin

Jerky is said to have originated from South America, while biltong is a traditional South African snack.

Types of meat

One of the main differences between the two is the type of meat used. Jerky is made from lean cuts of meat, while biltong is made from fattier cuts. This makes biltong more flavourful and tender, while jerky is chewier and tougher to eat.

Preperation

Another key difference is the way they are prepared. Jerky is cut very thin and cooked on a rack at a low temperature to slowly dehydrate and cook the meat. Conversely, biltong is cured and marinated for 24 hours and then hung on hooks to air dry for up to a week. It is left in thicker pieces and left to dry out slowly before slicing to the desired size. This means that biltong has a much softer texture compared to jerky.

Always check the label

It's worth mentioning that not all jerky and biltong are created equally. Some brands  (particularly some of those found in Coles and Woolies) may contain added sugar or other nasty ingredients, which are 100% not carnivore friendly and can take away from their nutritional value. Always check the ingredients list before buying to ensure you're getting a high-quality product.

In conclusion, while jerky and biltong are both types of dried meat, they have distinct differences in their taste, texture, and preparation methods.

Jerky is made from lean cuts of meat, seasoned with various flavours and cooked slowly, while biltong is made from fatty cuts, cured in vinegar and spices, and air-dried slowly for a softer texture. Ultimately, it's up to personal preference which one you prefer, but it's important to make sure you're selecting a high-quality product free from added sugars to maximize their nutritional benefits.