Beef tongue is an underrated cut of meat that, when prepared correctly, becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender and incredibly flavorful. This recipe will show you how to cook beef tongue to perfection using simple ingredients, making it a delicious dish suitable for tacos, sandwiches, or served with a side of vegetables.
Beef Tongue Recipe Perfect For Mexican Tacos
4
servings15
minutes3
hours347
kcal3
hours15
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 1 beef tongue
1 1 onion
4 4 garlic cloves
2 2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon salt
Water (enough to cover the tongue in the pot)
2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons olive oil
Equipment
Large pot with lid- Tongs
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Frying pan (optional, for searing)
Directions
- Rinse the beef tongue under cold water to clean it. Pat it dry with a paper towel.
- In a large pot, place the tongue along with the halved onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt.
- Cover the tongue completely with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it cook for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the tongue is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once the tongue is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and allow it to cool slightly.
- Using a sharp knife, make a small incision in the thick outer skin of the tongue. Peel off the skin (it should come off easily). Discard the skin.
- After peeling, slice the beef tongue into thin pieces (about 1/4 inch or 0.6 cm thick). The slices should be tender and easy to cut through.
- For added flavor and texture, heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the tongue slices and sear for about 2 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
- Serve the beef tongue slices in warm tortillas for tacos or on toasted bread rolls for sandwiches. Add your favorite toppings such as cilantro, onions, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
Notes
- To reduce cooking time, you can use a pressure cooker. Cook the tongue for about 1.5 hours on high pressure.
- The cooking broth is rich and flavorful. Use it to make soups or as a base for other dishes.
What does beef tongue taste like?
Beef tongue has a mild, rich beefy flavor and a very tender texture when cooked properly. It’s often compared to other cuts of beef like brisket but with a softer, more melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Is beef tongue hard to cook?
No, beef tongue isn’t hard to cook, but it does require time. The slow-cooking method ensures that the tongue becomes tender and flavorful. Most of the cooking time is hands-off, so it’s relatively simple.
How do I know when the beef tongue is done?
The tongue is fully cooked when it can be easily pierced with a fork, typically after simmering for 2.5 to 3 hours. If you’re using a pressure cooker, it takes about 1.5 hours.
Do I have to peel the skin off the tongue?
Yes, the outer skin of the tongue is tough and needs to be removed after cooking. It peels off easily once the tongue is tender.
Can I freeze beef tongue?
Yes, cooked beef tongue can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What are some good ways to serve beef tongue?
Beef tongue is versatile and can be served in many ways. It’s delicious in tacos, sandwiches, or served with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. It can also be sliced thin and served cold in salads.
What can I do with the leftover cooking broth?
The broth from cooking the tongue is rich and flavorful. You can use it as a base for soups, stews, or even for cooking rice or other grains to add extra depth of flavor.
Can I cook beef tongue in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook beef tongue in a slow cooker on low heat for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. It’s a great option if you want to prepare it in advance with minimal attention.
How do I reheat beef tongue?
To reheat, gently warm the beef tongue slices in a pan with a bit of oil or in the microwave. Be careful not to overheat, as it could become dry.
s beef tongue healthy?
Yes, beef tongue is a good source of protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals. However, it’s relatively high in fat compared to leaner cuts of beef, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
