Ostrich Biltong
Ostrich biltong is a traditional South African dried, cured meat snack made from lean ostrich fillet. It is typically marinated in vinegar and a blend of spices like coriander, black pepper, and salt, then air-dried and sliced into strips. This method of preservation results in a tender, flavorful jerky-like product.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Ostrich biltong is an exceptionally high-protein, low-fat, and very low-carbohydrate food, making it a popular choice for high-protein or ketogenic diets. A typical serving provides a significant amount of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, with a rough calorie ballpark of 150-180 kcal per 50g serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 165 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Zinc | 3.8 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.8 mcg |
| Selenium | 18 mcg |
Per 50 g (about 1.75 oz) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Nutritionally, ostrich meat is a red meat that is as lean as chicken breast but with a richer, beef-like flavor. Culturally, biltong is a beloved staple in Southern African cuisine, often enjoyed as a hiking snack or beer accompaniment, and its preparation is a point of regional pride.
