How to Cooking and Peeling Beef Tongue

A Complete Guide to Cooking and Peeling Beef Tongue.

Beef tongue is a unique and delicious cut of meat that can be enjoyed in numerous culinary preparations. 

Known for its tender texture and rich flavor, beef tongue is versatile and can be used in various dishes, ranging from stews and sandwiches to tacos and salads. 

Beef tongue: its beneficial properties and uses

Beef tongue is a frequently used item in global cuisine due to its unique flavor and nutritional qualities. It is high-quality meat rich in protein and vitamins, making it appealing to many.

Beneficial properties of beef tongue

1. Protein: Beef tongue contains a significant amount of protein, essential for tissue building and repair in the body.

2. Vitamins and minerals: It holds essential B-group vitamins, particularly B12, responsible for the normal functioning of the nervous system. It also contains iron, zinc, and other beneficial minerals.

3. Low fat content: In comparison with other types of meat, beef tongue has low fat content.

Uses:

1. Boiled beef tongue: The primary method of preparation involves boiling the tongue with vegetables and spices until it becomes tender and ready to serve as a standalone dish or for further use in various recipes.

2. Sautéed or pan-fried tongue: After boiling, the tongue can be sautéed or pan-fried to achieve a golden-brown crust, adding extra flavor and texture to the dish.

3. In dish preparations: Beef tongue integrates well into various dishes. It can be used in cold or hot appetizers, soups, salads, fried dishes, and in different meat or vegetable rolls.

Beef tongue is a unique ingredient that, owing to its nutritional value and versatility, serves as an excellent base for many delicious and healthy dishes.

However, before diving into the cooking process, it is important to learn how to peel and prepare beef tongue properly. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking and peeling beef tongue to help you unlock the extraordinary potential of this underrated delicacy.

I. Preparing the Beef:

1. Choosing the right cut: Opt for a fresh and well-trimmed beef tongue from a reputable butcher or grocery store.

2. Cleaning the tongue: Rinse the beef tongue thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities or excess blood. Pat it dry with paper towels.

3. Removing the skin: Cut off the tough outer skin using a sharp knife. Start at the tip and work your way towards the base, making sure to remove all the skin and expose the tender meat underneath.

4. Trimming excess fat: Trim any excess fat from the beef tongue, leaving a thin layer intact to enhance flavor and maintain moisture during cooking.

5. Optional: Marinating the tongue: Consider marinating the beef tongue overnight in a mixture of your choice to enhance its flavors. Common marinades include a blend of herbs, spices, vinegar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

II. Cooking Methods for Beef Tongue:

Beef tongue can be cooked using several methods, each offering a unique flavor profile and tenderness. Here are three popular cooking methods:

1. Simmering:

    a. Place the peeled beef tongue in a pot, adding aromatic vegetables such as onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.

    b. Cover the tongue with water or a flavorful broth and bring it to a boil.

    c. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the tongue cook for approximately 2-4 hours, or until tender. Add more liquid if needed.

    d. Once cooked, remove the tongue from the liquid and let it cool before slicing or further preparation.

2. Slow cooking:

    a. Preheat your slow cooker and place the peeled tongue inside.

    b. Add the desired spices, herbs, and liquid (broth, wine, or beer) to achieve a flavorful cooking base.

    c. Cook the tongue on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until it is fork-tender.

    d. Remove the tongue from the slow cooker, let it cool, and proceed with slicing or additional cooking.

3. Pressure cooking:

    a. Place the peeled tongue in a pressure cooker with onions, herbs, spices, and liquid (broth, wine, or water).

    b. Seal the pressure cooker and cook on high pressure for approximately 30-45 minutes.

    c. Allow the pressure to release naturally, or carefully release the pressure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

    d. Once cooled, the tongue is ready to be sliced or used in any desired recipe.

III. Peeling Beef Tongue:

1. Cooling the cooked tongue: After cooking, allow the tongue to cool naturally or place it in an ice water bath to loosen the skin and make peeling easier.

2. Peeling the tongue: Gently pull away the loosened skin from the tongue, starting from the tip and working towards the base. Alternatively, you can use a knife to assist in removing the skin, but be careful not to remove too much meat in the process.

3. Slicing or chopping: Once peeled, slice or chop the beef tongue according to your recipe requirements. Whether thin slices for sandwiches or cubes for stews, the tender meat is now ready for use.

4. Cooking with the peeled tongue: Incorporate the peeled beef tongue into your selected recipe, following the desired cooking instructions or using it as a substitute for other meats.

Cooking and peeling beef tongue is a rewarding experience that opens up a world of culinary possibilities.

By following the step-by-step methods mentioned above, you can prepare this underrated cut of meat to perfection.

 Remember, whether you opt for simmering, slow cooking, or pressure cooking, the key lies in ensuring tenderness and flavor. 

So, embrace the unique texture and rich flavors that beef tongue offers, and embark on a flavorful journey to savor this exceptional delicacy in the comfort of your own home.

Here are a few interesting recipes with beef tongue:

1. Boiled Beef Tongue

   - Beef tongue (1 piece)

   - Onion (1 piece)

   - Carrot (1 piece)

   - Spices (bay leaf, salt, peppercorns)

   Steps:

   - Place the beef tongue in a pot with water.

   - Add onion, carrot, and spices.

   - Cook for approximately 2-3 hours over moderate heat until tender.

   - Remove the skin and cartilage from the tongue, slice it thinly, and serve with a sauce of your choice.

2. French-Style Beef Tongue

   - Beef tongue (1 piece)

   - Onion (2 pieces)

   - Garlic (3 cloves)

   - Carrot (1 piece)

   - Black peppercorns

   - Bay leaf

   - Salt

   - Sauce (tomato or according to your preference)

   Steps:

   - Boil the tongue with onion, garlic, carrot, peppercorns, and bay leaf until tender.

   - Peel off the skin and slice it into thin circles.

   - Sauté the slices in a pan with sauce or tomato paste until golden brown.

   - Serve the cooked tongue slices with a tasty garnish or vegetables.

3. Beef Tongue in Wine Sauce

   - Beef tongue (1 piece)

   - Onion (1 piece)

   - Carrot (1 piece)

   - Black peppercorns

   - Red wine (to taste)

   - Olive oil

   - Salt

   Steps:

   - Prepare the tongue by boiling it with vegetables and peppercorns.

   - Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion and carrot.

   - Add the tongue to the vegetables, pour in red wine, and simmer over moderate heat until done.

   - Serve with a sauce of your choice and fresh vegetables.

These recipes can be adjusted and adapted according to your taste preferences. Beef tongue is a unique ingredient that can be the basis for many delicious dishes.