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Tacos de Lengua recipe

Tacos de Lengua recipe

Wondering how to cook Tacos de Lengua perfectly? Get step-by-step instructions, seasoning tips, and the best toppings for ultimate flavor!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Beef tongue 2-3 pounds Fresh preferred but frozen works well when thawed properly
  • White onion 1 large Cut into quarters for cooking
  • Garlic 6-8 cloves Leave whole with skins on
  • Bay leaves 2-3 Dried leaves provide better flavor concentration
  • Whole peppercorns 1 tablespoon Black or mixed peppercorns work well
  • Salt 1-2 tablespoons Sea salt or kosher salt recommended
  • Corn tortillas 16-20 small Fresh 4-5 inch diameter traditional style
  • White onion 1 small Finely diced for topping
  • Fresh cilantro 1 bunch Chopped stems removed
  • Lime wedges 2-3 limes Cut into small wedges for serving
  • Salsa verde 1 cup Fresh tomatillo salsa preferred
  • Avocado 1-2 Ripe but firm sliced or cubed

Instructions
 

  • Preparation and Cleaning
    ❶ Thorough initial cleaning: Rinse the beef tongue under cold running water, scrubbing lightly if needed to remove any debris.
    ❷ Preparation for cooking: Place the cleaned tongue in a large pot that will accommodate it comfortably.
    ❸ Add cooking liquid: Cover the tongue completely with cold water, allowing about 2 inches of water above the meat.
    ❹ Incorporate aromatics: Add the quartered onion, whole garlic cloves, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt to the cooking liquid.
    ❺ Begin the cooking process: Set heat to high and bring the water to a full boil.
    ❻ Reduce for simmering: Once boiling, lower the heat to maintain a gentle, consistent simmer.
  • The Slow-Cooking Process
    ❶ Cover and cook: Place a lid on the pot and allow the tongue to simmer gently for 3-4 hours.
    ❷ Check for doneness: The tongue is ready when a fork easily penetrates the thickest part with little resistance.
    ❸ Rest before handling: Remove the tongue from the cooking liquid and allow it to cool until you can handle it safely.
    ❹ Crucial peeling step: Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the outer skin layer that covers the tongue – this will peel away relatively easily when properly cooked.
    ❺ Precision cutting: Slice the peeled tongue into small, uniform, bite-sized pieces ideal for taco assembly.
  • Perfecting the Meat for Tacos de Lengua
    ❶ Prepare for crisping: Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat until hot.
    ❷ Add cooking fat: Introduce 1-2 tablespoons of oil, lard, or bacon fat to the heated surface.
    ❸ Crisp in batches: Add sliced tongue pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
    ❹ Season during cooking: Sprinkle with additional salt and preferred spices to enhance flavor.
    ❺ Achieve ideal texture: Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side until edges develop a golden-brown crispness while maintaining interior tenderness.
  • Creating the Perfect Tacos de Lengua
    ❶ Prepare tortillas: Heat corn tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a flame until they become soft, pliable, and slightly charred.
    ❷ Begin assembly: Place a generous portion of the crisped tongue meat in the center of each warmed tortilla.
    ❸ Add traditional toppings: Sprinkle with freshly diced white onion and chopped cilantro.
    ❹ Finish with condiments: Add your preferred salsa verde, a bright squeeze of fresh lime juice, and several slices of ripe avocado.
    ❺ Serve immediately: Present your Tacos de Lengua while still hot for the optimal dining experience.

Notes

Nutritional Information

I’ll convert the nutritional profile paragraph into a clear, organized table:
Nutrient/Component Amount/Information Benefit/Note
Protein ~27g per 100g serving Exceptional content for muscle maintenance and repair
Minerals High levels Rich source of iron, zinc, and phosphorus
B-complex vitamins Significant amounts Particularly high in vitamin B12, supporting neurological function
Collagen Contains significant amounts Potentially beneficial for skin, joint, and digestive health
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) Present May have anti-inflammatory properties
Fat content ~16g per 100g serving Higher than some leaner cuts; best enjoyed occasionally
Dietary recommendation Occasional consumption Best within a balanced diet including plant foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats
Keyword Thanksgiving, Christmas, seafood stuffing, holiday dish, cornbread dressing, Southern recipe, comfort food