Biltong has always been more than just a snack. For South Africans, it’s part of our DNA, something we enjoy on road trips, at rugby matches, or shared with friends over a drink. Incorporating biltong into your meals can lead to exciting Recipes with Biltong that will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative Recipes with Biltong that you can try, showcasing the versatility of this ingredient. From appetizers to main courses, these Recipes with Biltong will make your meals unforgettable.

But here’s the secret that foodies around the world are just starting to discover: biltong isn’t just for snacking, it’s an incredible ingredient.

At Yebo Biltong, our air-dried, sugar-free, spice-balanced beef is made the traditional South African way, using coriander, pepper, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. That deep, savory, slightly tangy flavor makes it one of the most versatile proteins you can use in the kitchen.

From light salads and gourmet toasties to protein-packed breakfasts and show-stopping charcuterie boards, biltong brings richness, depth, and umami to almost anything.

Let’s explore a few creative ways to turn your favorite South African snack into the star of your next meal.

Why Biltong Works So Well. Here’s Some Creative Recipes with Biltong

For those looking for unique options, consider experimenting with biltong in your favorite Recipes with Biltong, such as salads, sandwiches, and even pasta dishes.

Before we dive into the dishes, it helps to understand why biltong elevates food so effortlessly.

1. 1. It’s packed with flavor.
      Air-dried beef has a concentrated umami punch: rich, savory, and naturally seasoned. It adds depth without needing much salt or sauce.
   2. It’s ready to eat.
      No cooking, no prep: just slice, crumble, or shred and you’re good to go.
   3. It’s protein-rich and low in carbs.
      Perfect for keto, paleo, or high-protein diets, or anyone looking for clean, wholesome ingredients.

1. It complements both fresh and rich foods.
   Biltong’s slightly tangy spice profile cuts beautifully through creamy, cheesy, or buttery dishes while enhancing the flavors of greens, grains, and eggs.

At Yebo, our authentic process, slow air-drying, real South African spices, and zero sugar make our biltong pure, flavorful, and incredibly adaptable.

1. Biltong and Avocado Salad with Lemon Dressing

This light, fresh salad is perfect for summer lunches or post-workout meals. It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh mixed greens (rocket, spinach, or lettuce)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• 50–75g Yebo Biltong, thinly sliced or shredded
• Fresh lemon juice (about one tablespoon)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and cracked pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Arrange greens, avocado, tomato, and onion on a plate.
2. Scatter biltong over the top.
3. Try adding biltong to your favorite Recipes with Biltong for a hearty protein boost.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Season lightly: remember, the biltong already adds salt and spice.

Pro Tip:

Add a few shavings of parmesan or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for extra texture. The lemon dressing and coriander-forward biltong flavor create a perfect balance of bright and savory.

2. Biltong Breakfast Scramble

Who said biltong can’t start your day? It’s a perfect high-protein addition to eggs, giving your breakfast a flavorful South African twist.

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• ¼ cup milk (or cream, for a richer texture)
• 50g Yebo Biltong, chopped into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small handful baby spinach
• Black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Whisk eggs and milk together until fluffy.
2. Melt butter in a pan on medium heat.
3. Add biltong and sauté briefly to warm through.
4. Add the egg mixture and cook gently, stirring until just set.
5. Toss in spinach for the last 30 seconds.

Optional Upgrade:

Top with a dollop of cream cheese or smashed avocado. The contrast between creamy and salty makes this a breakfast worth waking up for.

3. Biltong and Cream Cheese Toastie

Think of this as a gourmet version of the classic grilled cheese; rich, melty, and loaded with South African flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of sourdough or rye bread
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 50g Yebo Biltong, sliced or crumbled
• 1 slice of mild cheddar or gouda
• Butter for grilling

Directions:

1. Butter the outside of both bread slices.
2. Spread cream cheese on the inside of each.
3. Layer one slice with biltong and cheese, then close the sandwich.
4. Grill on a hot pan or sandwich press until golden and crisp.

Serving Suggestion:

Pair with tomato soup or a small salad. The creamy, tangy combination with the biltong’s spice and saltiness is seriously addictive.

4. Biltong Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic

This one’s a secret weapon for busy weeknights; a quick pasta dish that feels gourmet but comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 200g cooked spaghetti or tagliatelle
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
• 75g Yebo Biltong, sliced thin
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Cracked black pepper
• Optional: grated parmesan

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan and gently sauté garlic (don’t let it burn).
2. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the oil.
3. Stir in the biltong and parsley, letting the warmth infuse it slightly.
4. Season with black pepper and top with parmesan, if desired.

Why It Works:

The heat lightly softens the biltong, releasing its oils and aroma, which blend beautifully with the garlic and olive oil. It’s elegant, simple, and bursting with umami.

5. The Ultimate Biltong Charcuterie Board

These Recipes with Biltong aren’t just tasty; they also bring a touch of South African culture to your table.

If you really want to impress guests, this is where biltong shines. It’s a natural fit for charcuterie boards, pairing beautifully with cheeses, nuts, and fruits.

How to Build It:

Start with the star:

• Yebo Biltong, sliced thin or cut into bite-sized strips
• Yebo Droëwors, for variety and texture

Add cheeses:

• Aged cheddar — sharp and tangy
• Brie or camembert — creamy and mild
• Smoked gouda — rich and savory

Include accompaniments:

• Fresh grapes or figs
• Dried apricots or mango
• Roasted nuts (almonds, cashews, or pecans)
• Olives or pickles for contrast

Round it out with texture:

• Artisan crackers or toasted baguette slices
• A small dish of honey or mustard for dipping

Pro Tip:

For a South African touch, add a small bowl of Mrs Ball’s chutney or homemade spicy relish. The sweet-and-savory combination pairs perfectly with the salty spice of Yebo Biltong.

6. Biltong Caesar Salad (with a South African Twist)

This variation on the classic Caesar swaps bacon or anchovies for biltong — adding richness and depth without overpowering the dressing.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups romaine lettuce or kale, chopped
• 50–75g Yebo Biltong, sliced thin
• 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• Croutons (optional)

Directions:

1. Toss lettuce with dressing and parmesan.
2. Add the biltong and croutons just before serving.
3. Finish with an extra sprinkle of black pepper.

Why It Works:

Biltong replaces the salt and umami of anchovies while adding a South African kick that takes this salad from classic to unforgettable.

7. Biltong Snack Jars — The Perfect On-the-Go Fuel

Not every biltong recipe needs to be fancy. Sometimes the best “recipe” is one that’s all about smart combinations for daily snacking.

Try this mix:

• ½ cup Yebo Biltong, sliced small
• ¼ cup almonds or cashews
• A handful of dried fruit, like cranberries or apple chips

Pack in jars or resealable bags — perfect for travel, the office, or post-gym refueling.

It’s clean, protein-rich, and infinitely better than processed snacks.

The Beauty of Cooking with Biltong

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple meal, these Recipes with Biltong are sure to impress.

What makes biltong special in cooking isn’t just its flavor, it’s its versatility.

Because it’s air-dried, not cooked, it holds its texture even when warmed or added to sauces. It doesn’t lose flavor; it amplifies it. Whether used as a topping, a filling, or a protein substitute, Yebo Biltong adds depth, richness, and authenticity to every dish.

Think of it as the South African answer to prosciutto or pancetta, but cleaner, spicier, and naturally preserved.

The Final Word: From Snack to Staple

At Yebo Biltong, we’re proud to share more than just a snack; we share a piece of South African heritage. Our biltong’s authentic spice blend, traditional air-drying process, and all-natural ingredients make it as versatile as it is flavorful.

So whether you’re tossing it in a salad, layering it on toast, or building the ultimate charcuterie board, remember: biltong isn’t just food, it’s culture. And with a little creativity, it can turn any meal into something unforgettable.

Explore our collection of Recipes with Biltong that highlight the unique flavors and textures of this beloved ingredient.