Step into the heart of Botswana's rich culinary heritage with our exclusive recipe for Botswana Biltong – a mouthwatering jerky that embodies the essence of traditional flavors and time-honored preparation methods. Biltong, a beloved dried meat delicacy, has been a staple in Botswana for generations, cherished for its robust taste and enduring cultural significance.

In this culinary journey, we invite you to discover the art of crafting Botswana Biltong in your own kitchen. From selecting the finest cuts of meat to mastering the marination process and perfecting the drying technique, our recipe promises to capture the authentic essence of this savory delight. As you embark on this gastronomic adventure, be prepared to immerse yourself in the aromas and flavors that have been cherished by Botswana's communities for centuries. Get ready to experience the joy of creating and savoring Botswana Biltong – a culinary masterpiece that transcends time and borders.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of lean beef or game meat (such as venison)
• 1 cup of malt vinegar
• 1 cup of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon of coarse salt
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:Choose lean cuts of beef or game meat and trim off any excess fat. Cut the meat into strips, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

Marination:

1-In a large bowl, combine malt vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, coarse salt, brown sugar, ground coriander, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.

2-Place the meat strips into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for a more intense flavor.

Drying Process:

1-Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (ideally around 150°F or 65°C).

2-Remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator and drain off any excess liquid. Pat the strips dry with paper towels.

3-Arrange the meat strips on wire racks or hang them from skewers in the oven, ensuring there is space between each piece for proper air circulation.

4-Allow the meat to dry in the oven for about 4-6 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness. Biltong is traditionally dried until it's firm on the outside but still slightly moist on the inside.

Final Touch:

1-Once dried, let the biltong cool to room temperature. You can store it in an airtight container or enjoy it immediately.

2-Slice the biltong into thin strips before serving. It can be enjoyed as a snack on its own or added to salads and other dishes for a burst of flavor.

Indulge in the authentic taste of Botswana Biltong, a delicious dried and cured meat that pays homage to the culinary traditions of this vibrant African nation.

Nutritional Values:

Here are approximate nutritional values for the listed ingredients. Keep in mind that actual values may vary based on specific brands and variations of the ingredients used:

2 pounds of lean beef or game meat (such as venison):

• Calories: 2,000 - 2,400 kcal
• Protein: 220 - 260g
• Fat: 120 - 160g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• High-quality protein source for muscle health.
• Rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B-vitamins.

1 cup of malt vinegar:

• Calories: 50 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Adds a tangy flavor to the marinade.
• Contains acetic acid, which may aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.

1 cup of Worcestershire sauce:

• Calories: 50 - 70 kcal
• Protein: 1 - 2g
• Fat: 0 - 1g
• Carbohydrates: 10 - 15g

benefits:

• Enhances the umami flavor in the marinade.
• Contains ingredients like anchovies and tamarind, providing a unique and complex taste.

1 tablespoon of coarse salt:

• Calories: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Enhances the natural flavors of the meat.
• Assists in the preservation process by drawing out moisture.

1 tablespoon of brown sugar:

• Calories: 45 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

benefits:

• Adds sweetness to balance the savory and salty flavors.
• Contributes to the development of a delicious caramelized coating during drying.

1 tablespoon of ground coriander:

• Calories: 15 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 3g

benefits:

• Imparts a warm, citrusy flavor to the biltong.
• May have antioxidant properties and provide a subtle health boost.

1 tablespoon of black pepper:

• Calories: 15 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g

benefits:

• Adds a pungent kick to the marinade.
• Contains piperine, which may enhance the absorption of certain nutrients.

1 teaspoon of paprika:

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:

• Provides a mild, sweet, and smoky flavor.
• Contains antioxidants like carotenoids, which contribute to overall health.

1 teaspoon of garlic powder:

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

benefits:

• Adds a savory and aromatic element to the marinade.
• May have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

1 teaspoon of onion powder:

• Calories: 8 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

benefits:

• Enhances the savory flavor profile.
• Contains nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:

• Adds heat and a spicy kick to the biltong.
• Contains capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting and pain-relieving properties.

These values are rough estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and formulations of the ingredients you use. Always check the nutritional information on the product packaging for the most accurate details.