When it comes to South African snacks, few ingredients hold the same cultural significance as biltong. This exquisitely cured meat has been a cornerstone of the South African diet for generations. When paired with hash browns, a beloved breakfast classic worldwide, it creates a mouthwatering fusion that’s robust and full of flavor.
A South African breakfast with biltong hash brown recipe
Combining biltong with hash browns is a match made in breakfast heaven. The salty, spiced notes of biltong dishes complement the earthy, crispy potatoes perfectly. Plus, the versatility of this dish makes it ideal whether you’re having a leisurely South African breakfast at home or entertaining friends with traditional South African breakfast options.
If you’ve struggled with how to get hash browns crispy, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through tips to make the perfect hash browns in a pan, using tried-and-true techniques.
The ingredients for Hash Brown perfection
Before jumping into the recipe, it’s important to gather everything you need. Here’s what ingredients are in hash browns when making this biltong-infused version:
- 3 medium-sized potatoes (peeled)
- 80 grams of finely shredded biltong (the star of the dish)
- 1 small onion (grated or finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons flour (or your favorite gluten-free substitute)
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste (best way to season hash browns)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 3 tablespoons oil (for frying)
Biltong adds a distinctly South African touch to this dish, and its layers of flavor elevate the humble hash brown to exciting new heights.
How to get crispy Hash Browns with a twist
Achieving crispy, golden hash browns in your kitchen starts with proper preparation and following the right hash brown recipe. Here’s how to make these biltong hash browns step by step.
Step 1: Shred the Potatoes
Begin by shredding your peeled potatoes using a box grater or food processor. To ensure crispy results, soak the shredded potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which can make them soggy during cooking.
Step 2: Drain and dry
After soaking, drain the shredded potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is key for how to get hash browns crispy.
Step 3: Combine the ingredients
Place the dried potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add the finely shredded biltong, grated onion, flour, egg, and seasoning (salt, pepper, smoked paprika). Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Shape the Hash Browns
Take small portions of the mixture and form them into evenly sized patties. Aim for a thickness of around 1/2 inch for even cooking.
Step 5: Pan fry Hash Browns
Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the hash brown patties, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. This is the best way to season hash browns with that delicious biltong flavor seeping through as they cook.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
After cooking, place the hash browns on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb extra oil. For optimal texture, serve right away.
If you’re wondering what do you eat hash browns with, biltong hash browns pair beautifully with fried or poached eggs, roasted tomatoes, sausage, or a side of creamy avocado. The options are endless.
A cultural delight: Recipes with Biltong
Biltong hash browns aren’t just delicious—they’re a celebration of South African heritage. For locals, biltong is more than just food; it’s a source of pride, a conversation starter, and a beloved snack. By incorporating it into a classic dish like hash browns, you pay homage to this rich culinary tradition while enjoying something fresh and comforting.
If you’re looking for breakfast recipes in South Africa or ways to showcase biltong dishes when hosting brunch, this recipe will not disappoint. With its crispy texture and bold flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.
FinGlobal: cross-border financial specialists for South African expats
Handling your tax emigration solo? You shouldn’t have to. That’s what FinGlobal does best. We’re ready to step in and handle all the paperwork, legalities and tax for you, every step of the way. You can track our progress online as we jump through all of SARS’ hoops on your behalf. Simple. Straightforward. Stress-free. That’s what we can do for you.
To test our services, please leave your contact details in the form below, and we’ll contact you to discuss your financial objectives.