Biltong: South Africa’s Iconic Snack
- Zodwa Chantal Manitswana
- Oct 4, 2025
- 3 min read
If South Africa had a national treasure besides Table Mountain, rugby, and braais, it would probably be biltong. Forget your average snack, biltong is history, culture, and flavor rolled into thin, spicy strips of meaty goodness. It’s the kind of food that makes you say, “Just one more slice, ek sê!”
A Snack with History
Biltong isn’t just a delicious treat, it’s a survivor. Its origins date back to the 17th century, when Dutch settlers (or Boers) needed a way to preserve meat for long wagon journeys across southern Africa. The name itself comes from Dutch: “bil” meaning rump and “tong” meaning strip, basically, “rump strips,” but so much more than that.
Salt, vinegar, and spices were the original magic formula. The vinegar acted as a preservative, salt kept it tasty, and coriander (later added) gave it that unmistakable South African flair. Fast-forward a few centuries, and biltong has not only survived colonization, apartheid, and the rise of ready-made snacks—it’s become a symbol of resilience, ingenuity, and good taste.
Why South Africans Love Biltong
Protein That Packs a Punch:
For a snack, biltong is basically a superhero: high in protein, low in carbs, and guaranteed to keep your energy levels up. Gym-goers, hikers, and long-distance drivers swear by it. In fact, South Africans will happily tell you, “Give me biltong and I’ll climb a koppie!”
A Flavor Explosion:
From mild and herby to hot-and-spicy (just like your Auntie’s gossip), biltong comes in varieties for everyone. Beef, game, even droëwors (the biltong cousin that’s basically a spicy sausage), there’s a strip for every palate.
A Cultural Staple:
Biltong is more than just a snack; it’s part of South African identity. Walk into a shebeen, a rugby match, or a braai, and you’ll see it everywhere. It’s even made appearances in music and films, biltong is basically famous, but humbly so.
Economic Lifeline:
Biltong isn’t just for your tummy, it’s good for business. Small butcheries, family-owned biltong shops, and rural entrepreneurs depend on this snack for income. Buying a packet? You’re supporting local families and keeping traditions alive.
How South Africans Enjoy Biltong
Straight from the packet: No shame in the hungry game.
With cheese and crackers: For the posh at heart (or pretending to be).
On a braai: Who says biltong can’t mingle with your boerewors?
As gifts: Yes, even in corporate settings, you can impress your boss or clients with artisanal South African biltong.
And let’s not forget the droëwors, the spicy sausage that often accompanies biltong. Snack it at a party, chew it on the way to work, or keep it in the glovebox for emergencies. Yes, emergencies.
Fun South Africanisms Because Why Not
“Lekker”: Means good, nice, tasty… and yes, biltong is lekker.
“Eish”: Expresses surprise or disbelief. Often uttered when someone eats your last slice of biltong.
“Just now”: A flexible time word. In biltong terms: “I’ll make it for you just now”, which could mean 5 minutes, or 5 hours. Patience is a virtue.
Ready to Experience Biltong Like a True Mzansi Local?
Whether it’s tasting different flavors, learning how it’s made, or seeing how South Africans enjoy it with braais, rugby, and laughter, biltong is more than just food, it’s a cultural experience.
Want to take it to the next level? Book one of our corporate food experiences, complete with custom corporate gifts, or join our guided South African food tour to taste biltong alongside other local delicacies. You’ll leave with full bellies, happy hearts, and maybe a new favorite snack.
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