Tacos de Lengua Recipe

If you’ve ever ventured into the heart of Mexican cuisine, you know that every dish tells a story of tradition, and among these, tacos de lengua are a standout. The thought of cooking tongue might make some folks balk, but trust me, the results are astonishingly tender and flavorful, a true treat for the adventurous palate.

Tacos de Lengua Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Total Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before diving into the preparation, make sure your kitchen is equipped with the following:

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

The preparation of tacos de lengua requires some specific tools but nothing too outlandish. With these at your disposal, you’re ready to tackle this recipe.

Ingredients

Did you know? Beef tongue is enjoyed in various cuisines around the globe and is praised for its rich, buttery texture when cooked properly.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Tongue

• Rinse the beef tongue thoroughly under cold water.
• In a large pot, place the tongue, quartered onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, salt, and peppercorns.
• Cover with water by a couple of inches and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Simmer covered for about 3 hours or until the tongue is tender.

Note: The tongue should be tender enough to pierce easily with a knife.

Step 2 – Peel and Slice

• Remove the tongue from the broth and let it cool slightly.
• Peel off the tough outer layer of the skin.
• Slice the tongue into 1/4 inch thick slices.

Warning: Be careful handling the hot tongue to avoid burns.

Step 3 – Fry and Assemble

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tongue slices until crisp on the edges.
• Warm the tortillas on the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
• Place the fried tongue slices on each tortilla.

Note: Frying the tongue slices enhances their flavor and texture.

Step 4 – Garnish and Serve

• Top each taco with chopped cilantro and onions.
• Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Note: Fresh lime juice adds a zesty finish that balances the richness of the meat.

Additional Tips

• For an extra kick, add a dollop of your favorite salsa or a sprinkle of chili powder.
• If the tongue starts to dry out during cooking, add more water to keep it submerged.

Pairing Suggestions

While tacos de lengua can stand proudly on their own, they pair wonderfully with:

• A refreshing cilantro lime rice
• A side of spicy black beans
• Crunchy radish salad for a fresh contrast

Nutritional Information

Approximation Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Dietary Information

This tacos de lengua recipe is inherently gluten-free and rich in protein. To adapt it for a lower fat version, you may choose to boil the slices rather than frying them.

FAQs about Tacos de Lengua

What makes tacos de lengua so special?

The tenderness and unique flavor of the beef tongue set these tacos apart from more common types like chicken or beef.

Can I prepare the tongue a day ahead?

Absolutely, cooking the tongue ahead of time can make the final preparation much quicker and easier.

Are there vegetarian alternatives to beef tongue for tacos?

For a vegetarian version, try using thickly sliced mushrooms sautéed with the same spices.

How do I store leftover tacos de lengua?

Keep the cooked tongue in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

What are the key spices for authentic tacos de lengua?

Bay leaves, garlic, and peppercorns are essential, but don’t hesitate to add cumin or coriander for extra flavor.

Can tacos de lengua be made spicier?

Yes, increase the heat by adding more peppercorns during cooking or top with a spicy salsa.

What is the best way to peel the cooked tongue?

Let it cool until manageable, then use a knife to help start peeling the outer layer, which should come off fairly easily.

Conclusion

Tacos de lengua, with their deep flavors and unique textures, offer an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply spicing up your weekday menu, these tacos are a fantastic choice.

Feel free to leave comments, questions, or feedback on this recipe below. Your insights are greatly appreciated!

Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:

• Brace Rice Recipe
• Masoor Dal Recipe
• Beef Back Ribs Recipe
• Chicken and Gravy Recipe
• Tenderloin Steak Recipe
• Alice Springs Chicken Recipe

Tacos de Lengua Recipe

Discover how to make delicious tacos de lengua with this easy, step-by-step recipe. Perfect for a flavorful meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• 1 about 3-4 lb Beef tongue
• 1 quartered Onion
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 2 Bay leaves
• 2 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Peppercorns
• 12 Corn tortillas
• 1/4 cup chopped Fresh cilantro
• 1 finely chopped White onion
• 2 Limes cut into wedges

Instructions

 

Step 1 – Prepare the Tongue

• Rinse the beef tongue thoroughly under cold water.
• In a large pot, place the tongue, quartered onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, salt, and peppercorns.
• Cover with water by a couple of inches and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Simmer covered for about 3 hours or until the tongue is tender.
• Note: The tongue should be tender enough to pierce easily with a knife.

Step 2 – Peel and Slice

• Remove the tongue from the broth and let it cool slightly.
• Peel off the tough outer layer of the skin.
• Slice the tongue into 1/4 inch thick slices.
• Warning: Be careful handling the hot tongue to avoid burns.

Step 3 – Fry and Assemble

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tongue slices until crisp on the edges.
• Warm the tortillas on the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
• Place the fried tongue slices on each tortilla.
• Note: Frying the tongue slices enhances their flavor and texture.

Step 4 – Garnish and Serve

• Top each taco with chopped cilantro and onions.
• Serve with lime wedges on the side.
• Note: Fresh lime juice adds a zesty finish that balances the richness of the meat.

Notes

• For an extra kick, add a dollop of your favorite salsa or a sprinkle of chili powder.
• If the tongue starts to dry out during cooking, add more water to keep it submerged.

Keyword Tacos de Lengua Recipe