Tacos de Lengua Recipe

Whether you’re trying tacos de lengua for the first time or refining your technique, this dish offers a truly unique and satisfying culinary experience. With the right preparation and toppings, homemade tacos de lengua can rival any street vendor’s offering—bringing the vibrant taste of Mexico straight to your kitchen.

From choosing the right cuts of beef tongue to crafting the perfect toppings, this article will cover it all. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of tacos de lengua and discover how to bring this flavorful dish to your dinner table.

Looking for more taco inspiration? Check out our Beef Taquitos Recipe for another delicious way to enjoy flavorful beef in tortillas!

Introduction to Tacos de Lengua

What Are Tacos de Lengua?

Tacos de lengua are tacos made with beef tongue, which is slow-cooked until tender, then sliced or chopped and served in soft tortillas. While beef tongue is often seen as an unusual ingredient, it has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for generations. The rich, savory flavor of beef tongue, combined with the perfect blend of spices and toppings, makes tacos de lengua a satisfying and unique treat. These tacos are often served with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime, creating the perfect balance of flavors.

The Cultural Significance of Beef Tongue Tacos

Tacos de lengua are an integral part of Mexican culinary tradition, especially in street food culture. Across Mexico, you’ll find vendors who specialize in various types of tacos, and beef tongue tacos are one of the most popular offerings. They are often enjoyed as a late-night snack or part of a hearty meal. While the use of beef tongue might seem unusual to some, it is a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of Mexican cooking. The tenderness and flavor of the meat, when cooked properly, make it a favorite among taco lovers.

Ingredients for the Best Tacos de Lengua Recipe

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

To make the best tacos de lengua, you’ll need high-quality ingredients to achieve that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture and traditional Mexican flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• Beef tongue (lengua) – The star of the dish, preferably fresh and about 2-3 pounds.
• Water or beef broth – For cooking the tongue until tender.
• Garlic cloves – Adds depth of flavor during the cooking process.
• White onion – Used both for cooking and as a fresh topping.
• Bay leaves – Enhances the broth with an aromatic touch.
• Black peppercorns – Infuses the meat with subtle spice.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning the meat.
• Corn tortillas – The traditional choice for authentic tacos de lengua.

Spices and Seasonings:

• Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
• Oregano – A hint of herbal essence enhances the dish.
• Chili powder or paprika – Provides a mild heat and smoky undertone.
• Lime juice – Brightens up the flavors.

Optional Toppings to Enhance Your Tacos

Toppings are what take tacos de lengua to the next level. Here are some popular choices:

• Cilantro – Fresh and aromatic, a classic taco topping.
• Diced white onions – Adds a crunchy, slightly sweet contrast.
• Avocado slices or guacamole – Creamy and rich, pairs well with the tender meat.
• Salsa verde or salsa roja – Spicy and flavorful, depending on your heat preference.
• Pickled jalapeños – A tangy, spicy kick to balance the richness of the meat.
• Radish slices – Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
• Queso fresco – A light, crumbly cheese that enhances the flavor without overpowering.

Pro Tip: If you prefer extra crispy tacos, lightly toast your corn tortillas on a comal or skillet before assembling your tacos.

If you love bold Mexican flavors, don’t miss our Bunuelos Mexicanos, a crispy and sweet traditional dessert that pairs perfectly with any Mexican meal!

How to Prepare Beef Tongue for Tacos

Preparing beef tongue properly is key to making the most flavorful and tender tacos de lengua. While it may seem intimidating at first, the process is simple with the right techniques.

Cleaning and Prepping the Beef Tongue

Before cooking, it’s essential to clean the beef tongue properly to remove any excess debris and ensure a great-tasting dish.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:

1. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the beef tongue under cold running water to remove any residual blood and impurities.
2. Scrub the Surface: Use a brush or your hands to gently scrub the outer skin of the tongue.
3. Trim Excess Fat: Use a sharp knife to remove any excess fat or tough cartilage from the base of the tongue.
4. Soak in Salt Water (Optional): Some people prefer to soak the tongue in a bowl of salted water for 30 minutes to help draw out impurities. Rinse again before cooking.

Boiling vs. Slow Cooking: Best Methods for Tender Meat

There are two popular methods for cooking beef tongue: boiling and slow cooking. Each method yields a tender texture, but one may suit your preferences better.

Method 1: Traditional Boiling (Faster Cooking Time)

Boiling is a classic way to prepare beef tongue, ensuring it remains moist and tender.

Steps:

1. Place the cleaned tongue in a large pot and cover it with water or beef broth.
2. Add aromatics such as bay leaves, garlic, onions, black peppercorns, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the tongue is fork-tender.
4. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife; it should easily pierce through the meat.
5. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before peeling off the outer skin.

Method 2: Slow Cooking (More Flavor Development)

A slow cooker enhances the depth of flavor while ensuring ultimate tenderness.

Steps:

1. Place the cleaned tongue in the slow cooker and cover it with beef broth.
2. Add seasonings such as cumin, oregano, garlic, onions, bay leaves, and salt.
3. Set the slow cooker to LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours.
4. Once tender, remove the tongue, let it cool slightly, and peel off the skin.

Peeling and Slicing the Cooked Beef Tongue

Once the beef tongue is fully cooked, it’s time to remove the tough outer skin and prepare the meat for tacos.

How to Peel the Tongue:

• While still warm, make a small cut in the outer layer of skin.
• Using your hands or tongs, gently peel away the tough skin. It should come off easily.
• Discard the skin and any excess fat.

Slicing or Chopping the Meat:

• Slice the beef tongue into thin strips or small chunks, depending on your preference.
• If desired, lightly pan-fry the pieces in a skillet with a bit of oil for added texture.

At this stage, your beef tongue is ready to be transformed into delicious tacos de lengua!

Cooking Beef Tongue to Perfection

Now that the beef tongue is cleaned, cooked, and peeled, it’s time to add the final touches to bring out the best flavors. This step involves enhancing the texture and taste before assembling your tacos.

Traditional Boiling and Braising Method

If you boiled the beef tongue, you can enhance the flavor by lightly braising or sautéing it before serving.

Steps to Sauté the Cooked Beef Tongue:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil (vegetable, olive, or lard).
2. Add the sliced beef tongue to the skillet and sear until slightly browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Season with salt, cumin, and a touch of chili powder for extra depth of flavor.
4. Optional: Add a splash of lime juice while cooking for a citrusy kick.
5. Remove from heat and keep warm until assembling the tacos.

This method adds a slight crispness to the outer layer while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Instant Pot and Slow Cooker Techniques

For those who prefer a hands-off cooking method, both the Instant Pot and slow cooker can produce incredibly tender beef tongue with minimal effort.

Instant Pot Method (Quick & Efficient)

1. Place the cleaned beef tongue into the Instant Pot and add beef broth, garlic, onions, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
2. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 90 minutes.
3. Allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.
4. Remove the tongue, let it cool slightly, peel off the skin, and slice.
5. For extra flavor, sauté the sliced meat in a skillet before serving.

Slow Cooker Method (Best for Flavor Development)

1. Place the beef tongue in a slow cooker with beef broth, onions, garlic, bay leaves, and seasonings.
2. Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 5-6 hours until fork-tender.
3. Let it rest, then peel and slice.
4. Pan-fry for extra texture before assembling tacos.

Both of these methods lock in moisture while allowing the meat to absorb all the delicious seasonings.

Now that the beef tongue is cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble the tacos!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Tacos de lengua are incredibly flavorful on their own, but the right side dishes and drink pairings can take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re serving these tacos for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, here are the best accompaniments to round out your meal.

Best Side Dishes for Tacos de Lengua

Pairing your tacos with the right sides enhances the experience and balances the rich, tender meat.

Classic Mexican Sides:

• Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo) – A flavorful tomato-based rice dish that complements the tacos.
• Refried Beans (Frijoles Refritos) – Creamy and hearty, these beans add a delicious contrast.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder.
• Nopales Salad – A refreshing cactus salad with tomatoes, onions, and lime.

Lighter Side Options:

• Guacamole with Tortilla Chips – Creamy avocado dip with a citrusy twist.
• Jicama Slaw – A crunchy and refreshing side with a touch of lime and chili powder.
• Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions lightly seasoned and charred.

Drinks That Pair Well with Tacos de Lengua

A great drink enhances the flavors of tacos de lengua while balancing their richness.

Traditional Mexican Drinks:

• Horchata – A refreshing rice milk drink with cinnamon.
• Jamaica (Hibiscus Tea) – A tart, floral iced tea with a hint of sweetness.
• Tamarindo Agua Fresca – A sweet and tangy tamarind-based drink.

Alcoholic Pairings:

• Mexican Beer (Corona, Modelo, Pacifico, Dos Equis) – Crisp and refreshing, perfect with tacos.
• Margaritas – A classic tequila-based cocktail with lime and salt.
• Paloma – A grapefruit and tequila-based cocktail with a fizzy twist.
• Micheladas – A spicy beer cocktail with lime juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

With these side dishes and drinks, your tacos de lengua meal will be complete and bursting with authentic Mexican flavors!

Health Benefits and Nutritional Facts

Beef tongue is often overlooked as a protein source, but it has several nutritional benefits. If you’re wondering whether tacos de lengua are a healthy choice, let’s break down the health benefits and nutritional facts of this flavorful dish.

Is Beef Tongue Healthy?

Yes! Beef tongue is packed with essential nutrients, making it a nutritious option when eaten in moderation.

Health Benefits of Beef Tongue:

• High in Protein – A 3-ounce serving provides around 20-25 grams of protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Iron – Helps prevent anemia and boosts oxygen circulation in the body.
• Contains Essential B Vitamins – Particularly B12, which aids in energy production and brain function.
• Good Source of Zinc – Supports immune health and wound healing.
• Collagen-Rich – Beneficial for skin, joints, and gut health.

Nutritional Breakdown of Tacos de Lengua

The nutritional values of tacos de lengua depend on portion size and toppings. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one taco with beef tongue, corn tortilla, onions, and cilantro:

How to Make Tacos de Lengua Healthier

• Use leaner cuts – Trim excess fat before cooking.
• Opt for whole grain or homemade tortillas for more fiber.
• Load up on fresh toppings like salsa, cilantro, and radishes instead of cheese and sour cream.
• Grill or sauté instead of deep-frying to reduce excess oil.

Tacos de lengua can be a nutritious and delicious meal when prepared with fresh, wholesome ingredients!

Tacos de Lengua Recipe

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• Author: Juno
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 tacos 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Tacos de lengua are a beloved Mexican street food made from tender, flavorful beef tongue, slow-cooked to perfection and served with fresh toppings in soft corn tortillas.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2–3 lbs beef tongue (lengua)
• Water or beef broth
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 white onion
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp black peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp chili powder or paprika
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh cilantro (for topping)
• Diced white onion (for topping)
• Avocado slices or guacamole (optional)
• Salsa verde or roja (optional)
• Pickled jalapeños (optional)
• Radish slices (optional)
• Queso fresco (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the beef tongue thoroughly under cold water and scrub the surface.
2. Trim any excess fat and optionally soak in salt water for 30 minutes, then rinse.
3. Place the tongue in a large pot and cover with water or broth. Add garlic, onion, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt.
4. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 2.5–3 hours until fork-tender.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes, then peel off the tough outer skin.
6. Slice or chop the meat into small pieces.
7. Optional: sauté the pieces in a skillet with oil, cumin, chili powder, and lime juice until slightly browned.
8. Warm the corn tortillas on a skillet or comal.
9. Assemble tacos with tongue meat and desired toppings like onion, cilantro, salsa, and avocado.
10. Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!

Notes

• For best flavor, use fresh beef tongue and toast the tortillas before serving. Searing the cooked meat adds texture and enhances the taste.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Boiling/Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 taco
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: tacos de lengua, beef tongue tacos, Mexican street food, lengua, tacos

FAQs About Tacos de Lengua

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Tacos de Lengua

Tacos de lengua are a true Mexican delicacy, offering a rich, tender bite that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re trying them for the first time or looking to perfect your homemade recipe, the key to great lengua tacos is proper preparation, slow cooking, and the right toppings.

Now that you know how to clean, cook, season, and serve beef tongue, it’s time to bring this authentic dish to your table. Pair your tacos with Mexican rice, beans, or fresh salsa, and enjoy them with a refreshing agua fresca or cold beer.

Once you taste homemade tacos de lengua, you’ll see why they’re a favorite in Mexican street food culture!

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