1. What do tongue tacos have?

Tacos de lengua typically contain slow-cooked beef tongue , served in warm corn tortillas and topped with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime . Many people add salsa verde, salsa roja, or avocado for extra flavor. Some variations may include cheese, radishes, or pickled jalapeños.

2. What do tongue tacos mean?

Tacos de lengua translate to "tongue tacos" in English, referring to tacos made with beef tongue as the main protein. In Mexican cuisine, lengua is considered a delicacy due to its tender texture and rich flavor when cooked properly. These tacos are a popular street food item found in taquerias throughout Mexico and Latin American communities.

3. Are tongue tacos healthy?

Yes, tacos de lengua can be a nutritious meal when prepared correctly. Beef tongue is high in protein, iron, vitamin B12, and zinc , which are essential nutrients for overall health. However, it is also higher in fat than some other cuts of beef, so portion control is important. To make them healthier: - Use whole grain corn tortillas for added fiber. - Opt for fresh toppings like salsa, onions, and cilantro instead of heavy cheese or sour cream. - Grill or sauté the meat lightly instead of frying it in excess oil.

4. What is tongue meat?

Tongue meat refers to the muscle of the cow's tongue , which is rich in flavor and has a tender, buttery texture when cooked properly. While it may seem unusual, it is commonly used in Mexican, Asian, and European cuisines for tacos, stews, and sandwiches. Slow cooking makes it soft and enhances its naturally beefy taste.

Tacos de Lengua Recipe – The Best Authentic Mexican Street Tacos

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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