3 Biltong Food Recipes For A Party Menu – Cook At Home

Planning a party menu can be exciting, but finding dishes that are both delicious and unique can be a challenge.  If you’re looking to impress your guests with something a little different, consider incorporating Biltong food recipes, a flavorful cured meat from South Africa, into your spread. This article features three biltong-centric recipes that are perfect for parties: Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices, Biltong Chilli Nachos, and the Ultimate Biltong Bagel.  

These recipes offer a range of flavors and textures, from the savory and tangy pizza to the spicy and satisfying nachos, and the simple yet delicious bagel. Each recipe includes detailed instructions, ingredient lists, cost breakdowns, serving suggestions, and tips for preparing in bulk, making it easy for you to create a memorable and delicious party menu.  We’ll also explore flavor variations to cater to different tastes and provide answers to frequently asked questions about each dish.

Here are 3  biltong food recipes perfect for a party menu:

Recipe #1: 

Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices: A Flavor Explosion

Craving a pizza experience that’s anything but ordinary? Look no further than these Biltong and Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices. This recipe combines the tangy goodness of sourdough, the rich, salty flavors of biltong, and the creamy, pungent notes of blue cheese, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or even a gourmet snack. Let’s dive into the details!

What Ingredients You’ll Need:

• For the Sourdough Crust (or use pre-made dough):
  • 150g Active Sourdough Starter (fed and bubbly)
  • 200g Strong Bread Flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 50g Whole Wheat Flour
  • 175g Lukewarm Water
  • 6g Fine Sea Salt
• For the Topping:
  
  • 150g High-Quality Biltong (pre-sliced or thinly sliced yourself)
  • 100g Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola, Stilton, or your favorite variety), crumbled
  • 50g Fresh Mozzarella, grated
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 small Red Onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme Leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • Optional: A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking

Equipment Required:

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Dough Scraper/Spatula
• Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone
• Parchment Paper (optional, for easier handling)
• Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife
• Small Bowl for Olive Oil
• Pastry Brush (optional, for brushing crust)

Time Commitment:

• Prep Time: (If making sourdough from scratch) 2-3 hours for the dough to rise, plus 15 minutes for topping prep. (If using pre-made dough) 15 minutes for topping prep.
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Follow these Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sourdough Crust (if making from scratch): In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, bread flour, whole wheat flour, and lukewarm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
2. Add the salt to the dough and mix thoroughly. Perform a series of “stretch and folds” every 30-45 minutes for the next 2-3 hours. This helps develop the gluten and creates a strong, airy dough.
3. After the bulk fermentation, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly floured proofing basket or bowl. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
4. Prepare the Topping: While the dough is proofing (or if using store-bought dough), prepare the toppings. Thinly slice the red onion. Crumble the blue cheese and grate the mozzarella. Slice the biltong if needed.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible (ideally 220-250°C or 425-475°F) with a baking sheet or pizza stone inside.
6. Shape the Dough: If using homemade dough, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature slightly. On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll out the dough into your desired pizza shape (round or rectangular).
7. Assemble the Pizza: Place the dough on parchment paper (if using) and brush the edges with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of olive oil over the base. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Arrange the biltong slices, red onion, and crumbled blue cheese on top. Sprinkle with thyme leaves.
8. Bake: Carefully transfer the pizza (with parchment paper, if using) onto the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve: Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing into portions. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze (optional) for an extra touch of flavor.

Cost Breakdown Depending up on the number of servings:

These are rough estimates. Prices can vary significantly.

• 5 Servings: $15-20
• 10 Servings: $25-35
• 15 Servings: $40-50
• 20 Servings: $55-70

How to serve in a best way? 

• Serve immediately while the pizza is hot and the cheese is melted.
• Cut into smaller slices for appetizers or larger slices for a main course.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• A glass of red wine or a craft beer complements the flavors beautifully.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overloading the pizza: Too many toppings can make the crust soggy.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of this pizza relies on the quality of the biltong and blue cheese.
• Not preheating the oven sufficiently: A hot oven is crucial for a crispy crust.
• Overbaking: This can make the crust dry and the cheese rubbery.

Flavor Variations:

1. Fig and Prosciutto: Replace biltong with prosciutto and blue cheese with goat cheese. Add sliced figs for sweetness.
2. Caramelized Onion and Bacon: Use caramelized onions and crispy bacon instead of biltong and blue cheese. Add Gruyere cheese for a nutty flavor.
3. Mushroom and Truffle: Top with sautéed mushrooms, truffle oil, and Fontina cheese to make it One of the best Bitlong recipes. 
4. Spicy Chorizo and Manchego: Use spicy chorizo sausage and Manchego cheese. Add some pickled peppers for extra heat.
5. Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage: Top with roasted butternut squash, sage leaves, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Preparing in Bulk for Events:

1. Make the dough ahead: You can prepare the sourdough dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. Prep the toppings: Slice the red onion, crumble the blue cheese, and grate the mozzarella ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
3. Par-bake the crusts: Roll out the dough and bake the crusts for a shorter time (about 5-7 minutes) until they are just slightly firm. Let them cool completely. You can store par-baked crusts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day or freeze them.
4. Assemble and bake: Just before the event, assemble the pizzas with the toppings and bake them as directed. If using frozen par-baked crusts, allow a few extra minutes of baking time.
5. Keep warm: If you need to keep the pizzas warm for a short period, you can place them on a wire rack in a low oven (around 100°C or 200°F).

Enjoy your delicious Biltong and Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to explore new and exciting flavor combinations. 

FAQs

What are the cuisines of the Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices? 

This pizza blends elements of Italian cuisine (pizza) with South African flavors (biltong) and a touch of European influence (blue cheese), making it a fusion dish.

What are unhealthy ingredients in the Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices? 

While delicious, the blue cheese, depending on the type, can be high in fat and sodium, and excessive amounts of cheese or biltong can also contribute to a higher calorie and fat content.

Where is the Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices more common? 

This specific combination of ingredients is likely more common in regions with access to biltong, such as South Africa or areas with a significant South African diaspora.

What is the best way to eat the Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices? 

These pizza slices are best enjoyed fresh and hot, allowing the sourdough crust to maintain its texture and the blue cheese to be perfectly melted and flavorful.

How to convert the Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices? 

You can adapt this recipe by using plant-based cheese alternatives, substituting the biltong with another protein or vegetable, or choosing a different type of crust to meet dietary needs or preferences.

What is the best method to store Biltong & Blue Cheese Sourdough Pizza Slices? 

Leftover pizza slices should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in an oven or toaster oven to regain some of the original crispness

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Recipe #2: 

Biltong Chilli Nachos: Get The Spice You Love

Biltong Chilli Nachos are the perfect party snack, game-day treat, or even a satisfying weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the savory goodness of biltong with a rich, flavorful chilli and the satisfying crunch of nachos. Get ready for a taste sensation that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

This recipe makes approximately 5 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for larger groups.

• For the Chilli:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Nachos:
  • 1 bag (10-12 oz) tortilla chips
  • 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
  • 4 oz biltong, thinly sliced or chopped (can substitute with jerky in a pinch)
  • Optional Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, jalapenos, cilantro, green onions

Equipment Required

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Can opener
• Oven-safe dish or baking sheet

Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chilli: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
2. Brown the Meat: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cover. Cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble the Nachos: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a layer of tortilla chips on an oven-safe dish or baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chips, followed by half of the biltong. Spoon half of the chilli over the biltong. Repeat layers with remaining chips, cheese, biltong, and chilli.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Add Toppings: Remove from oven and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, jalapenos, cilantro, and green onions.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cost per Serving (Approximate)

These costs are estimates and may vary depending on location and current prices.

• 5 Servings: $15-20
• 10 Servings: $25-35
• 15 Servings: $40-50
• 20 Servings: $55-70

Best Serving Methods

• Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and melty.
• For a party, keep the chilli warm in a slow cooker and let guests assemble their own nachos.
• Offer a variety of toppings for guests to customize their nachos.
• Serve with your favorite beverages, such as beer, margaritas, or soft drinks.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. This will result in unevenly melted cheese and soggy chips. Use multiple dishes if necessary.
• Using Cold Chilli: For best results, ensure the chilli is hot when assembling the nachos.
• Skipping the Spices: The spices are crucial for the flavor of the chilli. Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
• Pre-shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and tastes better.

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Pineapple Chilli: Add diced pineapple and a pinch of chipotle powder to the chilli for a sweet and spicy twist.
2. Vegetarian Chilli: Substitute ground beef with lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option.
3. White Chicken Chilli: Use shredded chicken instead of ground beef and add white beans and green chilies for a different flavor profile.
4. Pulled Pork Chilli: Use slow-cooked pulled pork instead of ground beef for a richer, smokier flavor.
5. Curry Chilli: Add curry powder and coconut milk to the chilli for an Indian-inspired twist.

Preparing in Bulk for Events or Restaurants

1. Make the Chilli Ahead: The chilli can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
2. Portion Control: For large events, pre-portion the chips and cheese into individual serving containers. This will make assembly faster and easier.
3. Warming and Holding: Keep the chilli warm in a large slow cooker or chafing dish. Have all the toppings prepped and ready to go.
4. Assembly Line: Set up an assembly line with all the ingredients and let guests build their own nachos.
5. Food Safety: When preparing food in bulk, it’s crucial to follow proper food safety guidelines. Ensure all ingredients are fresh and stored properly. Maintain proper cooking temperatures and avoid cross-contamination.

Recipe Nutrition Table (Approximate Values)

These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)	Per 100g (Approx.)
Calories	600-800	250-350
Protein	30-40g	12-16g
Fat	40-50g	16-20g
Carbohydrates	50-70g	20-28g

Main Ingredient Calorie Count (Approximate)

• Ground Beef (1 lb): 1200-1500 calories
• Cheddar Cheese (8 oz): 800-900 calories
• Tortilla Chips (10 oz): 1200-1400 calories

Enjoy your delicious Biltong Chilli Nachos! Remember to adjust the recipe to your liking and have fun experimenting with different flavors and toppings.

FAQs

What are the cuisines of the Biltong Chilli Nachos? 

Biltong Chilli Nachos are a fusion dish, combining elements of Tex-Mex (nachos, chili) and South African (biltong) cuisines.

What are unhealthy ingredients in the Biltong Chilli Nachos? 

The most calorie-dense and potentially less healthy components are the tortilla chips, cheese, and ground beef; using lean ground beef, reducing cheese, and baking the chips instead of frying can make the dish healthier.

Where is the Biltong Chilli Nachos more common? 

While nachos are popular globally, the addition of biltong makes this specific variation more common in regions with a strong South African culinary influence.

What is the best way to eat the Biltong Chilli Nachos? 

Biltong Chilli Nachos are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is melted and the chips are crispy, allowing for the optimal combination of textures and flavors.

How to convert the Biltong Chilli Nachos? 

You can convert this recipe to suit dietary needs by using plant-based ground beef substitutes, dairy-free cheese, or even baking your own low-sodium chips.

What is the best method to store Biltong Chilli Nachos? 

It’s not recommended to store assembled nachos as they will become soggy; it’s best to store the chili and other components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

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Recipe #3:

The Ultimate Biltong Bagel: Taste Matters For Each Bite 

Craving a unique and satisfying sandwich? Look no further than the biltong bagel! This South African-inspired delight combines the chewy goodness of a bagel with the savory, cured flavor of biltong, creating a taste sensation you won’t soon forget. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect biltong bagel, from ingredient lists and step-by-step instructions to variations, bulk preparation tips, and nutritional information.

What is Biltong?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the star of the show: biltong. Biltong is a type of cured meat originating from South Africa. It’s air-dried and seasoned, resulting in a rich, savory flavor and a slightly chewy texture. Unlike jerky, biltong is typically thicker and less sweet. It’s readily available online and in specialty food stores.

Ingredients for the Perfect Biltong Bagel (Serves 1):

• 1 Plain Bagel (or your favorite flavor)
• 50g Biltong, thinly sliced
• 25g Cream Cheese (or a spread of your choice)
• 1/4 Avocado, sliced
• Arugula or Baby Spinach leaves
• Optional: Red Onion slices, Tomato slices, or a drizzle of chutney.

Equipment Required:

• Bread Knife
• Small Spreading Knife
• Cutting Board

Time:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (This is a no-cook recipe!)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bagel: Slice the bagel in half horizontally.
2. Spread the Cream Cheese: Spread cream cheese evenly on both halves of the bagel.
3. Layer the Biltong: Arrange the thinly sliced biltong on one half of the bagel.
4. Add the Avocado: Place the avocado slices on top of the biltong.
5. Add Greens: Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach leaves.
6. Optional Toppings: Add red onion slices, tomato slices, or a drizzle of chutney if desired.
7. Assemble: Place the other bagel half on top to complete the sandwich.
8. Serve: Enjoy your delicious biltong bagel immediately!

Cost Breakdown (Approximate, depending on location and ingredient prices):

These costs are estimates and can vary. Buying ingredients in bulk will generally reduce the per-serving cost.

• 5 Servings: $10 – $15
• 10 Servings: $18 – $25
• 15 Servings: $25 – $35
• 20 Servings: $32 – $45

Best Serving Methods:

• Freshly Made: The biltong bagel is best enjoyed fresh, as the bagel can become soggy if left for too long.
• Cut in Half: For easier handling, you can cut the bagel in half before serving.
• Presentation: Serve the bagel on a plate with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad for a complete meal.

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overloading the Bagel: Too many fillings can make the bagel difficult to eat and can overwhelm the flavor of the biltong.
• Using Stale Bagels: Fresh bagels are essential for the best texture and flavor.
• Slicing Biltong Too Thick: Thick slices of biltong can be tough to chew. Thinly sliced biltong is ideal.
• Skipping the Cream Cheese: The cream cheese acts as a binder and adds a creamy element that complements the biltong.

Flavor Variations:

1. Spicy Biltong Bagel: Use chili-flavored biltong and add a few slices of jalapeño.
2. Sweet and Savory Biltong Bagel: Add a layer of fig jam or chutney to the bagel.
3. Mediterranean Biltong Bagel: Include sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives.
4. Breakfast Biltong Bagel: Add a fried egg and some crispy bacon to the bagel.
5. Curried Biltong Bagel: Mix a small amount of curry powder into the cream cheese for a unique flavor twist.

Bulk Preparation for Events or Restaurants:

Preparing biltong bagels in bulk requires careful planning and attention to detail.

1. Biltong Preparation: Pre-slice the biltong and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. Bagel Preparation: Purchase fresh bagels on the day of the event or the day before and store them in a cool, dry place. You can pre-slice the bagels and store them in airtight bags to maintain freshness.
3. Ingredient Prep: Prepare all other ingredients (avocado, cream cheese, etc.) in advance and store them properly.
4. Assembly Line: Set up an assembly line with all the ingredients and have designated people assemble the bagels.
5. Storage: If you need to prepare the bagels in advance, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble them as close to serving time as possible.
6. Food Safety: Maintain proper food handling procedures, especially when dealing with perishable ingredients like avocado and cream cheese. Ensure all surfaces and utensils are clean.

Recipe Nutrition Table (Approximate Values per serving):

These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	400-500 kcal
Total Fat	20-30g
Saturated Fat	10-15g
Cholesterol	50-70mg
Sodium	700-900mg
Total Carbohydrate	40-50g
Dietary Fiber	5-7g
Protein	20-25g

Main Ingredient Calorie Count (Approximate per 100g):

• Biltong: 350-450 kcal
• Bagel: 250-300 kcal
• Avocado: 160 kcal

Disclaimer: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult ¹ with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

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FAQs

What are the cuisines of the Biltong Bagel? 

The biltong bagel is a fusion dish, primarily inspired by South African cuisine (due to the biltong) and Western sandwich traditions.

What are unhealthy ingredients in the Biltong Bagel? 

Depending on the specific ingredients, the bagel, cream cheese, and even biltong (due to sodium content) can be high in calories, fat, and sodium if consumed in excess.

Where is the Biltong Bagel more common? 

While gaining popularity globally, the biltong bagel is likely more common in South Africa and areas with significant South African populations, as well as in delis or restaurants specializing in unique sandwiches.

What is the best way to eat the Biltong Bagel? 

The biltong bagel is best enjoyed fresh, soon after preparation, to ensure the bagel’s texture remains optimal and the ingredients are at their peak flavor.

How to convert the Biltong Bagel? 

“Converting” the biltong bagel isn’t a typical concept; however, you can adapt it by substituting ingredients to meet dietary needs (e.g., using a low-carb bagel or a vegan cream cheese alternative).

What is the best method to store a Biltong Bagel? 

It’s best to consume the biltong bagel immediately; however, if you must store it, wrap it tightly and refrigerate it for a short time, though the texture may change.

Disclaimer 

The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute professional culinary advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the recipes, ingredient lists, instructions, nutritional information, and cost breakdowns, variations may occur due to ingredient availability, regional differences, personal preferences, and specific preparation methods. Nutritional values provided are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and quantities used. It is recommended to use your own judgment and culinary expertise when preparing these recipes. Always exercise caution when handling food and using kitchen equipment. Please be aware of any personal allergies or dietary restrictions before consuming these dishes. The author and publisher of this article are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or any adverse reactions resulting from the use of the information provided herein. For specific dietary advice or concerns, consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional.