Okay, preparing a cow tongue might be a bit of a stretch for you, but did you know tongue is considered a delicacy in all countries where beef and lamb are produced?
First, I want to thank my daughter for introducing me to this amazing recipe. We've sold beef for 20+ years and I've seen my fair share of beef tongues come and go, but I never entertained the idea of eating one. She had the inspiration to try beef tongue so I encouraged her to find a recipe and make it. She decided on Beef Tongue Tacos. They were incredibly delicious and she has made them twice in the last few weeks.
You will need to be prepared for how the tongue looks. Yes, it looks and feels exactly like a tongue, rough bumpy taste buds and all. You just have to pull yourself together, get over the ick-factor and charge ahead! You may even decide it is the best cut of beef that you have ever tried.
Beef Tongue Tacos
For the slow-cooker:
1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
1 beef tongue
2 shallots, sliced in half (we didn’t have any so she them out)
1 fist of garlic cloves, unpeeled
Water
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp each, cumin, smoked paprika, chipotle pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper (or seasoning of your choice)
Process:
Rinse tongue thoroughly.
Place the tongue in the slow-cooker, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
Place shallot, garlic and jalapeno pepper on top of the tongue, and pour in just enough water to cover the tongue.
Cook on low for at least 8 hours.
Remove tongue from slow-cooker, and peel the skin from the meat using two forks.
Discard the skin, and shred the meat using the same two forks.
Place shredded meat in a large skillet, and warm meat on medium heat.
Season meat.
When all spices are evenly distributed, remove from heat and set aside.
Use as you would any taco meat.
My daughter really flexed her creative foodie mind on this one. Honestly, I never would have taken the time to find a recipe and prepare a beef tongue. I have her to thank for expanding my food world.
Enjoy some time in the kitchen with your family and do some experimenting. I’d love to hear what you think of this recipe. Try it and you may even find a new family favorite.
Blessings,
Diane