Droewors, the South African cured meat snack, is an over 400 years old recipe that translates to dry sausage and is linked to have originated from Dutch who settled in South Africa during the pre-colonial era. The fundamental purpose of coming up with the recipe was to preserve meat for relatively long periods and minimize wastage which was prone to happen considering there was no refrigeration technology at the time. Furthermore, this South African droewors cured meat was less bulky and could easily be carried by hunters who had to leave home for significantly longer periods in search of food. Biltong, also originally from South Africa was developed for the same reasons of preservation but contrary to popular belief it is different from droewors.
Difference between Biltong and Droewors.
It doesn’t go without saying that both of these South African delicacies are dried meat snacks however their major difference is in their preparation. Biltong involves thin slices of the meat usually less than a cm in thickness to ensure they dry faster and prevent the possibility of spoiling during the drying process. Droewors on the other hand usually have that distinct rounded shape and are available in the thick and thinner versions although the former is preferred considering it can easily be dried with significantly reduced risk of spoilage compared to the thicker one.
Reasons why these historic recipes are still popular in today’s world.
- They are rich in proteins.
These dried meat snacks usually preferable over other snacks such as potato chips which have been deemed unhealthy are rich in proteins which are good for maintenance and development of muscles and hence one of the best snacks to have before workouts.
- Have comparatively fewer calories.
In comparison to other available snack alternatives, droewors and biltong have significantly reduced calories and thus healthier for the modern man. All in all, these snacks should be eaten in moderation considering excessive consumption may do more bad than good.
- Use traditional spices.
The traditional South African recipe of Biltong and Droewors uses natural spices such as vinegar pepper etc. in their preparation procedures. These are ingredients are less harmful to the long-term health of individuals compared to flavoring chemicals and others used for preservation of snack today. As people become more conscious of what they eat such natural alternatives become suitable for their lifestyles and hence their continued popularity over the years.
- Low fat composition
These dried meat snacks usually have a low fat composition which makes them a good protein source for people who are on a diet trying to cut off some weight.
- It doesn’t require refrigeration.
Unlike most protein sources that are available today, Biltong and droewors can go for long periods without going bad which makes them the best choice for protein source today when out for hiking, or out on long trails among other activities. Additionally, they are a rich source of vitamin B12 which is vital for healthy blood and good cell replication processes.
