Biltong and Pasta Salad

Biltong and Pasta Salad Recipe from South Africa

Region / culture: South Africa | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Biltong and Pasta Salad is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the rich, savory taste of biltong with the light, refreshing texture of pasta salad. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a hearty yet refreshing meal, blending the traditional South African cured meat with a classic pasta salad. The addition of vibrant vegetables and a tangy dressing makes this dish a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual lunches to more formal gatherings.

History

The history of biltong dates back to the early settlers in South Africa, who needed a method to preserve meat without refrigeration. By curing the meat with salt, vinegar, and spices, they were able to create a durable food source that could withstand the harsh conditions. The concept of pasta salad is believed to have Italian origins, evolving into a popular dish worldwide, especially during the warmer months. The fusion of biltong with pasta salad is a relatively modern innovation, showcasing the versatility of biltong and its ability to complement various cuisines and dishes.

Ingredients

Dressing

50 ml prepared honey mustard
50 ml apple cider vinegar (or balsamic)
150 ml sunflower oil
20 ml freshly chopped parsley

Salad

150 g beef biltong
500 g gnocchi shells (cooked)
10 sliced peppadews
2 medium cubed yellow peppers
1 medium finely chopped onion
6 medium baby marrows, sliced and lightly fried
100 g cubed feta cheese

How to prepare

Dressing

Whisk together mustard and vinegar until well mixed.
Slowly add oil while continuously whisking.
Stir in the parsley.

Salad

Pour the dressing over the biltong and let it stand for half an hour.
Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package.
Drain the pasta and mix in the biltong and dressing to coat the pasta well.
Allow the mixture to cool.
Add all the remaining ingredients, toss well to combine, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Variations

Substitute the gnocchi shells with whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Add roasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.
Use different types of biltong, such as game or ostrich, for a unique flavor.
Incorporate other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture in your Biltong and Pasta Salad, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality biltong with a good balance of fat and lean meat for the best taste.

- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.

- Allow the biltong to marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor.

- For a more vibrant salad, use a variety of colored vegetables.

- Adjust the seasoning of the salad after adding the feta cheese, as it can add extra saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side to grilled meats or fish. It's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a refreshing summer meal. Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include marinating the biltong to enhance its flavor, properly cooking the pasta to maintain its texture, and emulsifying the dressing to create a cohesive blend of flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, replace the biltong with grilled tofu or tempeh.

- Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with lemon juice for a fresher taste.

- If sunflower oil is not available, olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance, with the dressing stored separately and added just before serving to maintain the pasta's texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salad with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, to complement the tangy flavors of the dressing and the richness of the biltong.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Biltong and Pasta Salad contains approximately 450 calories. This makes it a moderately calorie-dense dish, suitable as a main meal for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Biltong and Pasta Salad contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the gnocchi shells, providing energy for your body. The vegetables add a minimal amount of carbs, along with dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Fats

This recipe contains about 20 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the sunflower oil used in the dressing and the natural fat content of the biltong. The feta cheese also contributes to the fat content, adding creaminess and flavor. These fats are essential for absorbing vitamins and providing energy.

Proteins

Each serving of Biltong and Pasta Salad offers approximately 25 grams of protein, making it a protein-rich dish. The biltong is the primary source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. The feta cheese also adds a small amount of protein to the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, particularly from the vegetables and biltong. Yellow peppers are rich in Vitamin C and A, while baby marrows provide potassium and Vitamin K. Biltong, being a meat product, contributes iron and zinc, essential for blood health and immune function.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the pasta) and dairy (from the feta cheese). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Biltong and Pasta Salad is a balanced dish, offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a flavorful option that contributes to a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.

Summary

Biltong and Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of South African and Italian cuisines, offering a tasty and nutritious option for a variety of dining occasions. With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and balanced nutrition profile, it's sure to become a favorite among those who try it.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Biltong and Pasta Salad. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Mafikeng in South Africa. My grandmother had invited me to help her prepare a special meal for a family gathering, and she handed me a tattered old recipe card with the words "Biltong and Pasta Salad" scrawled across the top.

I had never heard of biltong before, let alone imagined combining it with pasta in a salad. But my grandmother assured me that it was a traditional South African dish that was sure to impress our guests. She explained that biltong was a type of cured meat, similar to beef jerky, that was popular in our country. The idea of mixing this savory meat with pasta and fresh vegetables seemed strange to me at the time, but I trusted my grandmother's culinary expertise and eagerly set to work.

As we gathered the ingredients and started cooking, my grandmother began to recount the story of how she had first learned to make the dish. She told me that the recipe had been passed down from her own mother, who had learned it from a friend who had traveled to the Netherlands and brought back a new twist on an old favorite. Over the years, my grandmother had added her own touches to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and garnishes to create a dish that was uniquely her own.

As we cooked together in her cozy kitchen, I watched in awe as my grandmother effortlessly combined the flavors and textures of the biltong, pasta, and vegetables. She explained the importance of balancing the salty richness of the meat with the freshness of the vegetables and the tanginess of the dressing. I marveled at her skill and creativity, and I knew that I wanted to learn everything I could from her.

Over the years, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to suit my tastes and those of my family. I tried different types of pasta, from traditional spaghetti to colorful fusilli, and swapped out the vegetables depending on what was in season. I also played around with the dressing, trying out different combinations of vinegar, oil, and herbs to find the perfect balance of flavors.

As I grew older and my own children began to show an interest in cooking, I passed down the recipe to them, just as my grandmother had done for me. I taught them the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and encouraged them to experiment and make the recipe their own. I shared with them the story of how I had learned to make the dish from my grandmother, and how it had become a beloved family tradition that connected us to our South African roots.

Today, whenever I make Biltong and Pasta Salad, I think back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen and the sense of wonder I felt as I watched her work her culinary magic. I remember the laughter and the stories we shared as we cooked together, and the bond that we formed through our shared love of food and family. And I am grateful for the legacy that my grandmother passed down to me, a legacy that continues to inspire me in the kitchen and beyond.