Bacon biltong is a unique twist on a classic dried meat snack. This South African specialty involves air-drying cured and spiced bacon strips to create a shelf-stable, protein-packed treat. The end result is intensely flavored, crispy bacon that makes an irresistible high-protein snack.
While biltong is traditionally made from beef or game meats, bacon works surprisingly well The salty, smoky flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the tangy spices used in biltong With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can make your own bacon biltong at home.
Overview of Bacon Biltong
For those new to biltong here’s a quick look at what makes this special meat snack
- Air-dried rather than cooked – the meat undergoes a curing process but is not heated
- Intensely flavored from spice rubs like coriander, pepper, vinegar
- Very little moisture left after the drying process
- Long shelf life due to low moisture
- Protein-packed and easy to transport
- Traditionally made from beef or game meats
Bacon biltong offers a fun twist using a different meat that is nicely suited to the drying process The end result is crispy, spice-crusted bacon that makes a tasty high-protein snack.
Ingredients Needed
Making bacon biltong only requires a few ingredients:
- Thick-cut bacon strips
- Vinegar (cider, wine, or malt)
- Salt
- Whole black peppercorns
- Ground coriander
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, garlic powder
Use the best quality thick-cut bacon you can find, ideally one with higher fat content. The vinegar provides flavor and aids in preservation.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need any fancy equipment to make bacon biltong at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking sheet
- Cooling rack
- Grinder for spices
- Small bowl for rub
- Paper towels
- Container with lid for curing
- Drying setup (screen, box, or hooks)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect bacon biltong:
1. Prepare the bacon
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Use 1 kg thick-cut bacon sliced lengthwise into strips.
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Pat the strips dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. Make spice rub
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Grind peppercorns, coriander seeds, and any other spices like red pepper flakes.
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Mix with salt in a small bowl.
3. Cure the bacon
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Lay bacon strips in a glass baking dish and sprinkle with vinegar.
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Generously coat all sides with the spice rub.
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Cover and refrigerate 4-12 hours to cure.
4. Arrange for drying
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Pat bacon strips dry before hanging to remove excess moisture.
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Hang strips individually on hooks or racks so air can circulate.
5. Dry the biltong
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Place drying setup in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight.
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Allow bacon to dry for 2-3 days until darkened and stiff.
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Test doneness by checking the texture – it should be dry to the touch.
6. Store the biltong
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Transfer finished biltong to an airtight container.
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It will keep for several weeks stored in a cool, dry pantry.
Tips for Perfect Results
Follow these tips for the best homemade bacon biltong:
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Use the thickest cut bacon you can find so it holds up to drying.
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Apply the spice rub generously to infuse lots of flavor.
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Make sure strips are fully dried for food safety and the right texture.
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Store in an airtight container in a cool spot to maximize shelf
How To Make Bacon Biltong At Home | Experiment by Xman & Co
FAQ
How long does bacon biltong take to dry?
Can you make biltong out of pork?
How do you make bacon biltong?
1. Cut the bacon into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. 2. Place the bacon strips in the biltong maker or hang them up in a cool, dry place with good airflow. 3. Let the bacon strips air-dry for three to four days, depending on the thickness of the strips. The biltong should be firm and dry to the touch but still slightly chewy.
How do you make biltong at home?
Learn how to make biltong at home with our step-by-step guide. Choose the right meat for biltong, such as beef or game meats like venison. Season your biltong with a spice mixture of sea salt, crushed coriander seeds, black pepper, and paprika. Consider marinating the meat in a mixture of vinegar and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
Can you make biltong instead of oven-baked Bacon?
If you prefer to make bacon biltong instead of oven-baked bacon, you can use a standard biltong box to dry the bacon. Start by defrosting the bacon and separating the slices. Lay them out flat in a cool, dry, enclosed area with a small fan to keep the air moving around.
How do you make biltong taste better?
Consider marinating the meat in a mixture of vinegar and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Hang your biltong in a dry and well-ventilated space or use a biltong box for drying. Experiment with different meats, seasonings, and drying methods to create unique biltong flavors.