Discover how to make Kitoza, a traditional Malagasy delicacy made from dried, cured, and smoked zebu or pork. This flavorful, preserved meat is perfect for enjoying as a snack or adding a savory touch to your dishes. Learn step-by-step how to prepare and enjoy this unique treat in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 2 pounds zebu or pork meat (such as shoulder or ribs)

- 2 tablespoons sea salt

- 1 tablespoon black pepper

- 1 tablespoon paprika

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for extra smokiness)

- 1 tablespoon brown sugar

- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary

- Wood chips for smoking (optional, for authentic flavor)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - Trim excess fat from the meat and cut it into strips or pieces about 1 inch wide.

Season the Meat:

  - In a small bowl, combine sea salt, black pepper, paprika, smoked paprika, minced garlic, brown sugar, vinegar, and dried thyme or rosemary. Mix well to create a seasoning rub.

  - Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly over the meat pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Cure the Meat:

  - Place the seasoned meat in a large bowl or plastic bag, cover, and refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate and the meat to cure.

Dry the Meat:

  - After curing, remove the meat from the refrigerator. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  - If you have a dehydrator, place the meat strips on the trays and set it to 160°F (71°C). Dry the meat for about 4-6 hours or until it becomes firm and dry.

  - Alternatively, you can use an oven. Preheat the oven to 160°F (71°C) and place the meat on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Dry the meat in the oven for 4-6 hours, checking periodically.

Smoke the Meat (Optional):

  - For an authentic smoky flavor, preheat your smoker or grill with wood chips. Place the dried meat in the smoker and smoke for 1-2 hours, or until the desired smokiness is achieved.

Cool and Store:

  - Once dried and smoked, let the Kitoza cool to room temperature.

  - Store the Kitoza in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. It can be kept in a cool, dry place for several weeks or refrigerated for longer shelf life.

Serve:

  - Enjoy your Kitoza as a snack, or slice it thinly to add a delicious, savory element to salads, sandwiches, or stews.

Enjoy the rich flavors of homemade Kitoza, a true taste of traditional Malagasy cuisine!

Nutritional Values

Zebu or Pork Meat

 - Calories: 242

 - Protein: 26g

 - Fat: 14g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Iron: 1.1mg (6% DV)

 - Zinc: 2.4mg (22% DV)

 - Vitamin B12: 0.7µg (12% DV)

Benefits:

 - High in Protein: Essential for muscle growth and repair.

 - Rich in B Vitamins: Particularly Vitamin B12, crucial for red blood cell formation and nerve function.

 - Good Source of Zinc: Important for immune function and wound healing.

 - Contains Iron: Vital for oxygen transport in the blood.

Sea Salt

 - Sodium: 2,325mg (101% DV)

 - Calcium: 0mg

 - Iron: 0.1mg (1% DV)

Benefits:

 - Electrolyte Balance: Helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Essential for Taste: Enhances the flavor of foods.

Black Pepper

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

 - Iron: 0.5mg (3% DV)

 - Vitamin K: 0.7µg (1% DV)

Benefits:

 - Contains Piperine: Enhances nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties.

 - Supports Digestion: Stimulates digestive enzymes.

Paprika

 - Calories: 19

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0.8g

 - Carbohydrates: 3.7g

 - Vitamin A: 2,662 IU (53% DV)

 - Vitamin C: 6.3mg (11% DV)

 - Iron: 0.6mg (8% DV)

Benefits:

 - Rich in Vitamin A: Supports vision and immune function.

 - Antioxidant Properties: Contains carotenoids that may help fight inflammation.

Smoked Paprika

 - Calories: 19

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0.8g

 - Carbohydrates: 3.7g

 - Vitamin A: 2,662 IU (53% DV)

 - Vitamin C: 6.3mg (11% DV)

 - Iron: 0.6mg (8% DV)

Benefits:

 - Adds Smoky Flavor: Provides a rich, smoky taste without additional calories.

 - Contains Antioxidants: Similar to regular paprika, it has beneficial antioxidants.

Garlic

 - Calories: 4

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin C: 1mg (2% DV)

 - Calcium: 5mg

 - Iron: 0.1mg

Benefits:

 - Boosts Immunity: Contains allicin, which has antimicrobial properties.

 - Supports Heart Health: May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Brown Sugar

 - Calories: 50

 - Carbohydrates: 13g

 - Sugars: 13g

Benefits:

 - Adds Sweetness: Enhances flavor and balances seasoning. However, it should be consumed in moderation due to high sugar content.

Vinegar

 - Calories: 3

 - Carbohydrates: 0.1g

Benefits:

 - Acidic Flavor: Adds tanginess to the meat and can help in preserving.

 - May Improve Digestion: Some studies suggest vinegar can aid in digestion and blood sugar regulation.

Dried Thyme or Rosemary

 - Calories: 3

 - Carbohydrates: 0.6g

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

Benefits:

 - Antioxidant Properties: Rich in antioxidants that may help protect cells.

 - Supports Digestion: May aid in digestion and provide flavor.

These ingredients together create a flavorful and nutritious Kitoza, offering a mix of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.