Beef tongue recipe is a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds! Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth slices of beef tongue, slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. This dish is elevated with a zesty marinade of lemon juice, garlic, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, and you have a meal that’s not just satisfying but also a conversation starter. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unique delicacy!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents

beef tongue recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For boiling the beef tongue.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole Beef tongue The star of the dish, known for its rich flavor and tender texture.
- to taste Salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing the beef tongue’s natural taste.
- to taste Black pepper Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
Aromatics
- 2-3 cloves Garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; use fresh cloves for the best flavor.
- 1 whole Onion Provides sweetness and depth; can be used whole or chopped.
- 2-3 leaves Bay leaves Adds a subtle herbal note during cooking.
Vegetables
- 2 medium Carrots Contributes sweetness and color to the broth.
- 2 stalks Celery Enhances the broth with its fresh, crisp flavor.
Broth
- 4-6 cups Beef broth A flavorful base for simmering the tongue; can be substituted with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- 1-2 tablespoons Vinegar A splash helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy note.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the beef tongue under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in a large pot.
Seasoning
- Add enough water to cover the tongue. Toss in a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and a couple of cloves of garlic for flavor.
Cooking
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until tender.
Check for Doneness
- Use a fork to test the tongue. It should be tender and easily pierced. If not, simmer a bit longer.
Cooling and Peeling
- Once cooked, remove the tongue from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then peel off the tough outer skin.
Slicing and Serving
- Slice the tongue into thin pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Final Serving
- Serve the beef tongue warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy the tender, flavorful delight!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Tongue Recipe
- It’s incredibly tender and melts in your mouth.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to prepare.
- Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.
- Rich in flavor, it’s a unique twist on traditional beef dishes.
- Great for meal prep; enjoy leftovers in sandwiches or salads!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category: | Main Dish |
Cuisine: | Global |
Prep Time: | 20 minutes |
Cook Time: | 3 hours |
Total Time: | 3 hours 20 minutes |
Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
Serves: | 4-6 |
Best Served: | With mashed potatoes or in tacos |
Ingredients for Beef Tongue Recipe
- Beef tongue – The star of the dish, known for its rich flavor and tender texture.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the beef tongue’s natural taste.
- Black pepper – Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; use fresh cloves for the best flavor.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; can be used whole or chopped.
- Bay leaves – Adds a subtle herbal note during cooking.
- Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color to the broth.
- Celery – Enhances the broth with its fresh, crisp flavor.
- Beef broth – A flavorful base for simmering the tongue; can be substituted with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Vinegar – A splash helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy note.

Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Beef Tongue Recipe
Get ready to create a mouthwatering beef tongue dish that will impress everyone!
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Tongue
Rinse the beef tongue under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in a large pot.
Step 2: Season the Water
Add enough water to cover the tongue. Toss in a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and a couple of cloves of garlic for flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Tongue
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until tender.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Use a fork to test the tongue. It should be tender and easily pierced. If not, simmer a bit longer.
Step 5: Cool and Peel
Once cooked, remove the tongue from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then peel off the tough outer skin.
Step 6: Slice and Season
Slice the tongue into thin pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the beef tongue warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy the tender, flavorful delight!

Pro Tips for Making the Beef Tongue Recipe
• Always soak the beef tongue in cold water overnight to help remove impurities and enhance flavor.
• Use a slow cooker for tender results; low and slow is the key to perfection.
• Add aromatics like garlic, onion, and bay leaves to the cooking liquid for extra depth.
• After cooking, let the tongue cool slightly before peeling for easier handling.
• Slice against the grain for the most tender bites and serve with your favorite sauce.
How to Serve Beef Tongue Recipe
- Slice the beef tongue thinly for a tender bite.
- Serve with a zesty chimichurri sauce for a fresh kick.
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting side.
- Top with sautéed onions and bell peppers for added flavor.
- Enjoy in tacos with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes.
- Serve on a crusty baguette with horseradish sauce for a delicious sandwich.
- Accompany with pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color.
- Pair with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for balance.
- Try it with a side of roasted root vegetables for a hearty meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage ensures your beef tongue remains delicious for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the beef tongue to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place it in an airtight container for added protection.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Slice the beef tongue into portions for easier thawing.
- Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw the beef tongue in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water.
- Cover to retain moisture and heat until warmed through.
- Alternatively, use a microwave on low power, checking frequently.
FAQs
What is the best way to prepare beef tongue?
Start by thoroughly cleaning the tongue and simmering it in a pot of water with aromatics like garlic, onion, and bay leaves. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. After a few hours, the tongue will be ready for peeling and slicing.
How long does it take to cook beef tongue?
Cooking beef tongue typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Patience is key for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Can I use a slow cooker for beef tongue?
Absolutely! A slow cooker is a fantastic option for cooking beef tongue. Just add the tongue, some broth or water, and your favorite spices, then let it cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. You’ll be rewarded with incredibly tender meat.
What are some good serving suggestions for beef tongue?
Beef tongue is versatile! You can serve it sliced in sandwiches, diced in tacos, or as a main dish with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to add a zesty sauce or salsa for an extra flavor boost!
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