We would like to take a little diversion today when it comes to tongues. We love to talk about how to clean your tongue, how to brush your tongue, and even a few fun topics about tongues, i.e. tongue twisters, rockin’ tongues, etc.
But have you ever considered eating tongue? Hey, before you walk away from your computer, read a little longer!
If you’re looking for something different to add to the menu this week, how about trying a little tongue? This may not be a common choice in many households, but beef tongue can be a very tender and juicy addition to your palate. Many liken the rich flavor to a delicious pot roast or brisket.
In some parts of the world, any part of a butchered animal is considered a potential food supply and should never be wasted. Fortunately, cow tongue is a significant source of protein (an average cow tongue has about 90 grams) and provides healthy levels of iron, vitamin B, zinc and potassium. If you’re trying to follow a low-fat diet, you may want to limit your consumption of beef tongue because it does contain a lot of fat and is high in cholesterol.
Tongue is relatively inexpensive in comparison to other beef products, so a family of five can enjoy tongue steaks for a little less than eight dollars.
There are a variety of ways to prepare this unique dinner option. Be sure to read the instructions on the package for how to clean tongue. Unlike other meats, this one needs to be thoroughly scrubbed before preparation. Most boil or simmer it in a crock pot along with onions and seasonings. After many hours, the leathery surface of the tongue can easily be peeled off, revealing the tender portion of the meat. It is then ready to filet, sauté, add to stew, stir fry or slice for sandwiches, which fans recommend with mustard.
Simple Recipe for Beef Tongue
Here is the most basic recipe for cooking a beef tongue. It can then be served in any of the same ways other beef options are enjoyed.
1 beef tongue (about 2-3 lbs)
2 coarsely chopped onions
2 sliced carrots
1 sliced stick of celery
1 clove of garlic
¼ tsp of oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
- Simmer the tongue in water with onions, carrots, celery and garlic until tender (about 3 hours).
- Peel the tongue while it is still very warm.
- Slice it, season and serve.
So there you have it, tongue for dinner! But hey, don’t forget to brush your tongue after eating tongue. We don’t want that bacteria to build up and give you bad breath, or worse yet, lead to gum disease. Use the original TUNG Brush and Gel tongue cleaning system for your tongue cleaning needs.
Bon Appetit!
