Beef tongue, also known as “lengua,” is a delicacy in traditional Mexican cuisine. It is known for its tender texture and rich flavor. Many people are unfamiliar with how to cook beef tongue, but when cooked properly, it can be a delicious and tasty dish. It is often used in tacos, burritos, and stews. Cooking beef tongue Mexican style is not difficult, but it does take time and care. This article will walk you through the steps to make a delicious Mexican dish with beef tongue.
Learn about beef tongue in Mexican cuisine
Beef tongue has been a part of Mexican cooking for generations. It is rich in protein and has a rich flavor. It has a unique, soft texture similar to brisket. When cooked over a slow fire, beef tongue becomes very tender. In Mexico, beef tongue is often served in tacos with salsa, cilantro, onions, and lime. It is also used in soups or sliced thinly for sandwiches.
Mexican cooks value every part of the animal, and beef tongue is no exception. It is often considered a special delicacy and is enjoyed both at home and as a street food.
Why Beef Tongue is a Good Choice
Beef tongue is a nutritious meat, rich in protein, zinc, iron, and vitamin B12. It is low in fat compared to other fatty cuts. It is affordable and can be eaten by many people. Once you learn how to cook it, you can enjoy it in many dishes.
Cooking beef tongue may seem strange to some people, but it is similar to cooking other meats. The key is to cook it slowly and remove the skin after it is cooked. Once you learn how to cook it, you can use it in many dishes.
Choosing Fresh Tongues
1. Choose the Right Size
Tongues come in different sizes. A medium-sized tongue weighs about 2 to 3 pounds, enough for four to six servings. Choose a firm, clean tongue with no odor.
2. Clean before cooking
Rinse the tongues in cold water. Gently scrub to remove any residue. Some tongues may still have a rough layer of skin. There is no need to peel the skin before cooking. The skin will peel off easily after cooking.
Essential Ingredients for Mexican-Style Cow Tongue
To cook cow tongue Mexican style, you need basic ingredients. These are used to flavor the meat while boiling. The list includes:
1 whole cow tongue
1 onion, peeled and halved
5 garlic cloves
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
Water to cover
For serving, prepare:
Corn tortillas
Chopped white onion
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges
Your favorite salsa
Optional extras:
Avocado slices
Pickled jalapeños
Queso fresco or shredded cheese
Tools You Will Need
You need a few simple kitchen tools:
Large stockpot with a lid
Sharp knife
Tongs
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
These tools help make the cooking process safe and effective.
Mexican-Style Tongue Cooking Steps Guide
1. Boil the Tongue
Place the cleaned tongue in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Add enough water to cover the tongue. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 3 to 4 hours. The tongue needs to be very tender. You can test it with a fork, which should go in easily.
2. Peel the Tongue
Once cooked, remove the tongue from the pot. Allow to cool slightly. Use a knife to make a small cut in the skin of the tongue. Peel off the thick outer skin. The tongue should come out in large chunks. Discard the skin. Cut off any fat or cartilage from the bottom of the tongue.
3. Slice or Chop the Tongue
Once peeled, place the tongue on a cutting board. Slice thinly or dice it. It depends on how you want to eat it. Small chunks or thin strips work best for tortillas.
4. Pan-fry for extra flavor (optional)
You can enjoy the meat as is or pan-fry it for extra flavor. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Pan-fry the tongue slices until the edges are golden brown. This step adds flavor and enhances the texture.
5. Heat the tortillas
Heat the tortillas over a dry pan or over an open flame. Wrap in a cloth or place in a tortilla warmer to keep warm.
6. Assemble the tortillas
Place the meat in the center of each tortilla. Top with chopped onions and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over each tortilla. Drizzle with salsa or hot sauce. Garnish with avocado slices if desired.
Tips for perfect tongue
1. Slow cooking
Slow cooking makes the tongue soft and tender. Don’t rush it. High heat makes the meat firm and springy.
2. Season well
The boiling water should be flavorful. Add salt, garlic, and herbs as needed. The meat absorbs these flavors during cooking.
3. Peel after cooling
Don’t peel the tongue immediately after cooking. Let it cool slightly so the skin is easier to peel off. Don’t let it get cold or it will be more difficult to peel.
4. Pan-fry for texture
Pan-frying will crisp up the skin, create a contrast in texture, and enhance the flavor even more.
Common ways to eat cooked tongue
1. Tongue tacos
Tongue tacos are the most common way to enjoy tongue. Tongue is served in warm corn tortillas with onions, cilantro and salsa. It is tender and rich in flavor.
2. Green salsa tongue
You can simmer chopped tongue in a green tomato sauce. Serve with rice and beans. This dish is common in central Mexico.
3. Red salsa tongue
You can also choose red chili sauce. Cook the tongue with tomatoes, garlic and dried chilies. This dish is spicy and rich.
4. Tongue burrito
Place chopped tongue in a large flour tortilla. Add rice, beans, salsa, cheese and vegetables. Roll it up into a burrito and enjoy a hearty meal.
5. Tongue tacos
Use crispy corn tortillas. Top with a layer of refried beans. Add tongue, lettuce, cheese and salsa. This dish is crispy, delicious and very memorable.
How to store leftovers
Tongue can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container. You can also freeze it. Wrap it tightly and place it in a freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
When reheating, use a frying pan or microwave. Add a small amount of oil or water to keep it moist. Do not overheat when reheating or it may dry out.
Benefits of eating tongue
Tongue is rich in protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth. It is rich in iron, which helps maintain healthy red blood cells. It is also rich in zinc, which helps strengthen the immune system. The vitamin B12 in tongue helps replenish energy and nerve function. Although tongue is nutritious, it is also high in cholesterol, so it should be eaten in moderation.
If cooked properly, tongue is a healthy meat choice. It can be part of a balanced diet. Pair it with vegetables and whole grains for a nutritious meal.
What to Serve with Cow Tongue Dishes
Cow tongue pairs well with many side dishes. Some popular options include:
Mexican rice
Refried beans
Grilled vegetables
Pickled onions
Cactus salad
Guacamole
Fresh fruits like pineapple or watermelon can be served as a light dessert. Agua fresca or lime water complements the meal.
Conclusion
Preparing beef tongue the Mexican way is simple and satisfying. It transforms a unique cut of meat into a tender and flavorful dish. With patience and the right ingredients, you can make beef tongue roulade or other delicious dishes at home. The steps of boiling, peeling, slicing, and seasoning are all important. The end result is well worth the effort.
Beef tongue is part of traditional cooking and carries cultural values. It is healthy, delicious, and economical. Learning how to cook beef tongue correctly opens the door to a wider world of flavors. With every bite, you can feel the history, tradition, and delicious satisfaction.
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