Artisan Vs the Supermarket: Biltong #Artisan vs Supermarket

Briony Wilson
7th February 2017

It’s that time of the week again, that we all look forward to! Artisan vs Supermarket challenge, and this time we are putting Biltong to the test. Some of you may not have heard of Biltong, so here is a little description; it is a high protein snack originating from South Africa, made by marinating beef which is then hung dried, sliced and flavoured. This week we are tasting Weston Biltong Company’s. Weston’s have over 14 flavours on offer but we are tasting their original flavour as it was the most comparable of the extensive range!

Weston’s Biltong has been put up against Laverstoke Park Farm Biltong, Ring’s Rib Eye Biltong and Tesco’s own brand Biltong. All four Biltong’s were described as Airdried, thinly sliced British and Irish Beef and all list Coriander and spices on the ingredients list.

The tasting was conducted blind as per usual, where the judges marked the products on; Appearance, Texture and Taste. So, let’s start with Appearance, as you may have noticed from the picture Biltong is not the most appealing to the eye snack, and so judges marked this rather harshly. Laverstock’s came in last place due to its ball like appearance in comparison to the alternatives which appeared more slice like but in some circumstances, such as Ring’s it was described as ‘bark like’. Tesco’s came in 3^rd as it was quite thin and certain pieces looked rather rare, making Weston’s win first place.

Texture was another critically judged category, which unfortunately Laverstock’s came in last place again for being very tough much like Ring’s, which was also very chewy. Tesco’s own brand was the thinnest and fattiest of the four and so came in second with Weston’s again winning the category for it’s nice balanced texture.

Now taste is always the most competitive category and in this challenge a real game changer in last place was Rings for being way to garlicy, lacking any other flavour. In third places came Tesco’s own brand with a lack of seasoning and due to the fatty texture effecting the taste overall. Despite its low results in other categories Laverstock’s came second for flavour which had a nice balance of different herbs particularly garlic and coriander. Making the overall winner Weston Biltong for its combination of great taste, texture and appearance. It was commended for its subtle flavour allowing you to still taste the quality of the meat.

Once again, the Artisan product trumps the supermarket brands, so if you’re interested in trying something new’  head down to the Taste Cheshire farmers market outside of Chester Town Hall on Saturday 18^th February for some Biltong in lots of different flavours. Sheryl and Ryan also trade online at http://www.thewestonbiltongcompany.co.uk/ ; or at many other market around the area.