How to Cook Beef Tongue: Best Methods for Tender Results

written by

posted on

March 7, 2024

Beef tongue offers a versatile and delicious way to change up your main dish favorites. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this flavorful cut is gaining popularity for good reason.

While it may be less common here, in the American mid-west, beef tongue is popular around the world. Its rich taste and tender texture make it a great choice for discovering and enjoying new recipes. After a slow cook to tenderize, you can slice it up for tasty lengua tacos, stir-fry, or sandwiches.

Adding beef tongue to your diet gives you a nutrient-dense, tasty cut that helps support the sustainable nose-to-tail approach. In addition, choosing grass-fed beef ensures you get high-quality meat free from hormones, antibiotics, and GMOs, making it a healthier and more ethical choice.

In this guide, we’ll explore three methods to cook beef tongue to perfection. Ready to try this lesser-known cut and prepare a delicious meal that will have your family and friends asking for more?

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 3-4 hours

Servings: 4

Tips for Cooking with Beef Tongue

Cooking with beef tongue might seem intimidating at first. Most people don’t know the right way to prepare it, unless they were fortunate enough to enjoy organ meats in their family’s traditional cooking. But here are some of our best tips to help ensure your meals come out great every time.

Use a cooking method that tenderizes the beef tongue (braise, boil, or pressure cooker)
Remove the tough outer skin, make sure to let the cooked tongue cool slightly first – but don’t let it cool too much, as the skin will become tricky to remove.
Remove the tough skin after it’s cooked and slightly cooled
If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, pan-fry the beef tongue in a couple of tbsps of extra virgin olive oil for 5-6 minutes after cooking and removing the skin.
Explore different cuisines by changing the herbs and spices you use.
Get high-quality, ethically sourced meat products to ensure you get the best taste and highest nutritional value.

How to Cook Beef Tongue

Our recipe is a like a classic beef stew, but the cooking method works great for any flavor profile. Swap out the seasonings and vegetables for whatever dish you’re making. For example, if you want to whip up some beef tongue fajitas, adjust the seasonings (paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes, etc.) and slice the meat into strips when it's done.

Once you’ve got your ingredients together, it’s time to get cooking. Here are the best three ways to cook beef tongue.

What You’ll Need

You’ll need a few things to make a delicious meal with beef tongue, here’s what’s on the list for our recipe.

2 lbs. grass-fed beef tongue, cleaned and trimmed
1 large onion, chopped
1 cube butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, chopped
3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Instant Pot Beef Tongue

This instant pot beef tongue recipe is delightfully simple and takes less than two hours to prepare. If you don’t have an instant pot, you can also use a pressure cooker, following the same steps below.

Place a tab of butter in the instant pot with chopped onions, carrots, and minced garlic. Saute until the onions start to brown.
Saute and add in the beef tongue, plus all other ingredients.
Put the lid on the pot and set it to sealing. Leave for 90 minutes.
Release the pressure and take out the beef tongue. Once cooled, remove the skin.
Cut into slices and pour on the sauce from the pressure cooker. Serve.

Beef Tongue in the Dutch Oven

This braised beef tongue recipe produces incredibly tender meat. It takes a little more time to cook, but the wait is well worth it.

Put the beef tongue in your Dutch oven or a roasting pan. Add all the other ingredients and stir well.
Place the lid on top and braise in the oven at 375 degrees for 5-6 hours.
Remove the beef tongue and let cool for about 15 to 20 minutes. Peel the outer layer of skin and discard, cutting the remaining meat into slices.
Pour on the sauce and serve!

Slow Cooker Beef Tongue

No Dutch oven? No problem! Here’s how to make beef tongue in the slow cooker.

Place all the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook on the low setting for 8 hours.
Transfer the beef tongue to a work surface and let it cool for a few minutes. Peel the outer layer of skin and discard. Then slice the remaining meat.
Pour on the sauce and serve!

Side Dishes to Pair with Beef Tongue

Beef tongue is a super versatile cut of meat. Here are some delicious side dishes to pair it with for lunch and dinner:

Shredded beef tongue tacos with salsa verde and avocado
Teriyaki beef tongue with sticky rice and pak choi
Braised beef tongue with buttery mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli
Beef tongue sandwiches with honey and mustard dressing

Recipe FAQs

What does beef tongue taste like?

Beef tongue has a rich, meaty flavor and tender, buttery texture. It’s also exceptionally versatile, making it the perfect base for a variety of dishes.

Is beef tongue chewy or tender?

Beef tongue only becomes chewy if you cook it incorrectly. The best way to cook it is low and slow.

What is lengua meat?

Lengua is the Spanish word for tongue. If you see lengua on a menu in South America, it will probably mean beef tongue.

How do I ensure my beef tongue is tender?

For tender results, cook beef tongue low and slow.

Ready to cook?

Try these delicious recipes for yourself. Order Seven Sons’ grass-fed beef tongue today.

As always, we’d love to know what you think! So, let us know if you tried our recipes and how it turned out!

Curious for more? Try this simple Pickled Beef Tongue recipe or these authentic Mexican Beef Tongue Tacos!

3 Super Easy, Super Tasty Chicken Liver Recipes

Our commitment to ethically sourced meat includes using every part of our pastured chickens – including chicken liver! It's a delicious way to add nutrition and sustainability to your plate. If you’re unsure how to cook chicken liver, we’ve got you covered! In this post, you’ll find three methods for preparing chicken liver. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, the whole family, or hosting friends, these quick and delicious recipes will surely impress! Is Chicken Liver Good for You? Chicken liver is a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s why: Rich in nutrients: Chicken liver is nutrient-dense, loaded with iron, vitamin B12, vitamin A, choline, selenium, and copper. These vital nutrients support immune function, help wounds heal faster, aid in developing strong bones, and assist with hormone regulation. All of which keep your body functioning optimally. High in protein: With 23 grams of protein per serving, chicken liver is a protein-packed choice that supports muscle tone, brain health, and blood sugar stability. Combat anemia risks: Iron deficiency is a leading cause of anemia, which means having too few red blood cells. Fortunately, chicken liver is an excellent source of iron and vitamins C and B, which work together to keep your blood cells healthy and lower the risk of anemia. The Best Way to Cook Chicken Livers Offal like chicken and beef liver are best cooked quickly. This is because of their naturally high water content. They'll become dry and tough if you cook them for too long. However, chicken liver turns out deliciously creamy, mild, and tender when cooked right. Here are some of the best ways to cook it: Sauté: Cook chicken livers in a pan with a small amount of grassfed butter or extra virgin olive oil for 5-7 minutes. This method crisps the liver’s exterior while keeping the inner meat tender and juicy. Fry: Coat the chicken livers in a little flower, then fry them in a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until they’re crispy on the outside and cooked through. Again, this will take 5-7 minutes. Grill: Thread chicken livers onto skewers and grill them over medium-high heat for 4 minutes, turning halfway through cooking. Stir-fry: Cook chicken livers in a wok or pan with your chosen vegetables and sauce. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes. 3 Quick and Easy Chicken Liver Recipes Ready to unleash the wonders of chicken livers in your kitchen? Here are some recipes to try out. The best part? They all take less than half an hour to make! 1. Chicken Liver and Onions Liver and onions are a classic flavor combination for good reason. The deep, rich flavor of the liver balances the sweet, caramelized onions. This recipe is so delicious and satisfying, it will turn even the biggest liver skeptics into fans. To make it, you’ll need: 1 Lb chicken livers 2 Large onions, thinly sliced 3 TBSP Extra virgin olive oil 2 TBSP Butter 2 Cloves garlic, minced 1 TSP salt 1/2 TSP Black pepper 1 TSP Paprika 1/4 Cup flour (optional for coating) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Here are the steps to follow: Rinse the chicken livers under cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel. If you like a bit of extra crunch, coat them lightly in flour. In a large skillet, heat a splash of extra virgin olive oil with a teaspoon of butter over medium heat until melted and bubbling. Toss in the onions and let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and caramelized—this should take about 10-15 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an extra minute until fragrant. Push the onions to the side of the skillet and add the chicken livers. Sauté until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Stir everything and cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy! 2. Chicken Liver Salad with Spinach and Avocado If you’re in the mood for a light and fresh meal, this chicken liver salad fits the bill. It’s full of heart-healthy fats and iron, and packed with crisp, fresh vegetables. Simple, nourishing, and beautifully balanced. For this recipe, you’ll need: 1 Lb chicken livers 3 TBSP Extra virgin olive oil 1 TBSP Balsamic vinegar 1 TBSP Dijon mustard 1 TSP Honey Salt and pepper to taste 6 Cups fresh spinach leaves 1 Ripe avocado, sliced 1 Small red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 Cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 Cup chopped walnuts (optional) Here’s how to make it: Rinse the chicken livers under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken livers and cook until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make a zesty dressing. In a large bowl, toss together the spinach, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and walnuts. Add the warm chicken livers to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Gently toss everything to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy! 3. Chicken Liver Stir-Fry with Vegetables This nutritious dish brings all the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout without the excess sodium. It’s quick to prepare and a feast for the eyes—bright, colorful, and packed with nutrients. All you’ll need is the following ingredients: 1 Lb chicken livers 2 TBSP Soy sauce 1 TBSP Oyster sauce 1 TBSP Rice vinegar 1 TBSP Cornstarch 3 TBSP Extra virgin olive oil 1 Red bell pepper, sliced 1 Yellow bell pepper, sliced 1 Small broccoli head, cut into florets 2 Cloves garlic, minced 1 Inch piece of ginger, minced 2 Green onions, chopped 1/4 TSP red pepper flakes (optional) Cooked brown rice, for serving Once you’ve got the ingredients, just follow these steps: Rinse the chicken livers under cold water, pat dry with paper towel, then cut into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and cornstarch to create an Asian-style marinade. Add the chicken livers and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for 1 minute. Toss in the bell peppers and broccoli, and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Push the veggies to the side and add the marinated chicken livers to the skillet. Cook until they’re browned on all sides and no longer pink in the center–about 5-7 minutes. Mix everything, adding green onions and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Stir-fry for another minute to bring all the flavors together. Serve hot over a bed of cooked brown rice. How Long Should You Cook Chicken Livers? You should cook chicken livers quickly over high heat. Two great ways to cook this organ meat are sauteing and grilling. To saute, cook the chicken livers in a pan with a dash of olive oil for 5-7 minutes. To grill, simply thread the livers onto skewers and grill over medium-high for 4 minutes, turning halfway through. Why Do You Soak Chicken Livers in Milk? Soaking chicken livers in milk can enhance the tenderness of the meat. If you want a melt-in-your-mouth texture, place the chicken livers in a bowl of milk for 45 minutes before cooking. Which Recipe Will You Try? Ready to try one or all three of these chicken liver recipes? Seven Sons’ chicken livers come from ethical, pasture-raised chickens, making them a flavorful and nutritious choice. Give them a try today and taste the difference

What a Sight: Chickens on our Pastures

For many, many years, egg-laying hens have been scratching, foraging, and living their best life on our Indiana pastures, but this year marks the first time in a long while that we've had broilers (i.e., "meat chickens") on our pastures, too. We've been fortunate to work with a number of trusted chicken producer farmers during that span and continue to do so today to meet the ever-increasing demand for high-quality, ethical pasture-raised chicken.

What You Can Do With Pork Offal

If you’re trying to embrace nose-to-tail eating, you’ll eventually find yourself wondering how to cook with pork offal. While this range of meat cuts might initially seem more complex to incorporate into your meals, they’re actually quite easy, from simple midweek meals to dinner entrees like offal stew. Not only is pork offal versatile, it’s also packed with nutrients. These pasture-raised pork cuts tend to be high in protein and essential minerals. Once you try pork offal, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner! So, here’s everything you need to know about cooking with pork offal. What Is Pork Offal? Offal refers to the internal organs of an animal. In the case of pork, offal is usually made up of the heart, lungs, liver, cheeks, brain, snout, skin, and tongue. You’ve probably eaten pork offal plenty of times without realizing it! Some pork sausages, liver pate, and pork rinds are great examples of popular, delicious offal-based dishes. What Is Offal Used For? Offal includes organs like the liver, kidneys, heart, and intestines. It adds unique flavors and textures to a variety of dishes. Liver is used in pâtés and liverwurst, kidneys in stews and pies, heart in grilled or braised dishes, and intestines as natural sausage casings. These parts enhance everyday dishes with their rich, robust flavors. Celebrated for its nutritional value and sustainability, pork offal is a staple in many cultural cuisines. Dishes like crispy fried pork ears, pickled tongue tacos, and haggis showcase its versatility. Chefs and home cooks alike appreciate pork offal for its cost-effectiveness and role in reducing food waste, making it a prized ingredient in both traditional and modern cooking. Simple Pork Offal Recipes If you want to incorporate offal into your meals, but aren’t sure where to start, these offal recipes are a must-try. For each one, we’ve used a different cut of pork: the liver, the heart, and the tongue to give you some variety. Even better, these recipes are easy to make—but look and taste impressive. Sticky Pork Liver and Crunchy Vegetable Stir-Fry This super simple, moreish dinner dish comes together in just 25 minutes and is sure to become a regular in your household. The mild, creamy taste of the liver perfectly complements the crisp, crunchy vegetables. All you need to do is: Swap out your regular stir-fry meat—whether that’s prawns, chicken, or beef—with sliced pork liver. Fry the liver in a skillet for a minute on each side. Add in your vegetables and favorite sauce. Braised Pork Heart with Buttery Mash This braised pork heart recipe is incredibly sumptuous. If you don’t tell your guests, they might mistake it for slow-cooked beef! Low and slow is a great way to cook pork heart. The meat becomes so tender that it falls apart at the touch of a fork. Talk about melt-in-your-mouth! To make this: Use a Dutch oven or slow cooker and braise diced pork heart in a mixture of red wine, beef bone broth, and roasted vegetables. Let simmer for 2-3 hours. Serve with homemade buttery mashed potatoes. Spicy Pork Tongue Tacos For a twist on pulled pork tacos, try cooking with pork tongue instead! (Read our post on how to cook beef tongue to learn how to prepare it, just adjust your boiling time as pork tongues are smaller). Pork tongue is just as–if not even more–tender than pulled pork, with a delicate, meaty taste that blends perfectly with Mexican spices. To create these tacos: Put the diced pork tongue in your crockpot alongside some bone broth, chipotle powder, chili powder, and extra virgin olive oil. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Serve as you would pulled pork tacos, with a generous helping of guacamole, salsa verde, and black bean salad. Order Pasture-Raised Pork Offal Today At Seven Sons, we have a variety of organ meats from our ethically raised livestock. Order some today to enhance your meals.

Our 2nd Annual Surplus Sale
is here thru September 30th!

How to Cook Beef Tongue: Best Methods for Tender Results

Tips for Cooking with Beef Tongue